When you have leftover salmon and don’t know what to do with it, it can feel wasteful to toss it out. Instead of letting it go to waste, you can create new and exciting dishes with what you have on hand.
Discover how to transform your leftover salmon into delicious meals with our curated list of 14 inventive recipes. These recipes offer a variety of tasty options that can make your meals more enjoyable and reduce food waste at the same time. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, your leftover salmon has the potential to shine again.
1) Salmon Quiche
Salmon quiche is a simple yet sophisticated dish that can transform your leftover salmon into a gourmet meal. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even dinner.
To prepare, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped leeks and garlic, cooking until the leeks are translucent.
In a prepared pie shell, lay flaked salmon and cut-up asparagus. Season it with lemon zest, capers, shallots, salt, and pepper. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and cream. Add in your favorite cheese.
Pour the egg mixture over the salmon and asparagus. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the quiche is puffed and golden. Serve with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
2) Salmon Salad with Avocado
Salmon salad with avocado combines fresh, nutritious ingredients. Start with leftover salmon and a ripe avocado.
Break the salmon into chunks and dice the avocado. Adding spinach or mixed greens boosts the salad.
For extra flavor, mix in red onion, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
Create a simple dressing with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad and toss lightly.
This salad is great for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Because of the avocado, it’s best eaten fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For added taste, you can also mix in herbs like dill or cilantro.
3) Salmon Tacos
Salmon tacos are a delicious way to use up leftover salmon. They’re quick to make and burst with flavor. You start by flaking the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
For the seasoning, you can use a mix of salt, black pepper, chili powder, and garlic powder. Simply sprinkle this over the salmon pieces.
Next, heat some olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned salmon and cook until heated through. This should take just a few minutes.
While the salmon warms, prepare your taco toppings. Common choices include shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and fresh lime juice.
Warm your taco shells in the oven or on a dry skillet. Once ready, fill them with the seasoned salmon and add your toppings.
These salmon tacos are perfect for a quick and tasty meal. They combine the rich flavors of salmon with fresh, crunchy toppings, giving you a satisfying and nutritious option. Enjoy!
4) Salmon Pasta Bake
Salmon pasta bake is a comforting and delicious way to use leftover salmon. You can easily prepare it with a few basic ingredients.
Start by preheating your oven to 390°F. Cook your favorite pasta as directed on the package and drain it. Set it aside.
In a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with your leftover salmon, flaked into large chunks. Add a creamy sauce made from a mix of butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mixture and top it with shredded cheese. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad and breadsticks. It’s a quick, easy dinner that’s sure to satisfy your family. Enjoy!
5) Salmon Fried Rice
Salmon Fried Rice is an easy and tasty way to use leftover salmon. Start by heating some olive oil or sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Both oils work well, but sesame oil will add a distinct, nutty flavor.
Add diced onions and bell peppers to the hot oil. Sauté until they turn lightly browned, usually around 5 minutes. You can then add garlic and grated ginger to the pan, cooking for an additional minute.
Next, add your leftover salmon, breaking it into small pieces as you mix it in. Add cold, cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir the rice frequently to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients.
Move the rice mixture to the sides of the pan to create a space in the center. Pour in beaten eggs, allowing them to scramble and cook through. Once the eggs are set, stir them into the rice mixture.
Finish by adding soy sauce to taste. You can also add frozen peas for extra color and nutrition. Stir everything together and cook until the peas are heated through. Your Salmon Fried Rice is now ready to serve!
6) Salmon Stuffed Bell Peppers
Salmon stuffed bell peppers are a great way to use leftover salmon. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Place the peppers in a baking dish, standing upright.
In a skillet, sauté chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add cooked salmon, cooked rice, and mix well. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Fill each bell pepper with the salmon mixture. You can also add some shredded cheese on top if you like.
Bake the stuffed peppers for about 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
These stuffed bell peppers are delicious and make use of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
7) Salmon Croquettes
Salmon croquettes are a delicious way to use up leftover salmon. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect dish for any meal.
To start, you’ll need some flaked salmon. Remove any skin and bones from the salmon before mixing it with finely chopped onions and bell peppers.
In a bowl, combine the salmon, onions, bell peppers, one egg, and some breadcrumbs. Mix until everything is well combined. This mixture will hold together better if you refrigerate it for about 15 minutes.
Shape the mixture into small patties. Each patty should be about 3 tablespoons of the mixture. Use a cookie scoop for even portions.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Fry the croquettes until they are golden brown on both sides. This will take about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve your salmon croquettes with a dipping sauce like tartar sauce or even a squeeze of lemon. These croquettes are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even main course. They pair well with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables.
8) Salmon Pizza
Turn your leftover salmon into a unique pizza topping. This dish adds a twist to your typical pizza night.
Start with a basic pizza dough as your base. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or olive oil.
Next, add shredded leftover salmon. Pair it with thinly sliced red onions and capers. These ingredients bring a sophisticated touch.
Top with a mix of mozzarella and feta cheese. Both cheeses melt well and provide a rich flavor.
Bake your pizza in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Watch for the crust to turn golden brown and the cheese to bubble.
Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing. For added flavor, you can drizzle some lemon juice or sprinkle fresh dill on top.
Serve hot and enjoy your gourmet creation.
9) Salmon and Potato Chowder
Salmon and Potato Chowder is a comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover salmon. It’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Start by heating some olive oil or butter in a large pot. Sauté chopped onions and celery until they’re tender. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Next, add flour, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until well combined. Slowly whisk in milk and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until thickened, around 10 minutes. Add diced potatoes and continue to cook until they are tender.
Gently stir in the leftover salmon and some dill. Allow it to heat through for a few more minutes. You can also add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for extra flavor.
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with some fresh chives or cracked black pepper if desired. This chowder is creamy, hearty, and a great way to make use of leftover salmon.
10) Salmon Sushi Rolls
Salmon sushi rolls are a delightful way to use leftover salmon. You can transform leftovers into a fresh, tasty dish.
Start with cooked rice. Mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to create sushi vinegar. Pour this over your rice and mix gently.
Lay a sheet of nori on your sushi mat. Spread a layer of rice over the nori, leaving some space at the top.
Next, place thin slices of leftover salmon on the rice. Add fresh ingredients like cucumber, avocado, or bell pepper for crunch.
Roll the sushi tightly using the mat. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.
These rolls are easy to customize. You can add a variety of vegetables or even some cream cheese.
Using leftover salmon in sushi rolls is simple and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy a new meal without much effort.
11) Salmon Nachos
Turn your leftover salmon into a fun and delicious snack by making salmon nachos. Begin with a layer of your favorite tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Sprinkle chunks of leftover salmon over the chips.
Next, add cheese. Cheddar or Monterey Jack works great for this dish. Bake in the oven at 350°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
After baking, top the nachos with fresh diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and sliced olives if you like. Add your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
These salmon nachos are perfect for a quick lunch or as a party appetizer. You can also customize them by adding black beans, red onions, or shredded lettuce. Enjoy the combination of flavors and textures!
12) Salmon Enchiladas
If you have leftover salmon, try making salmon enchiladas. They’re a delicious twist on a traditional dish and a great way to use up your extras.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. Add chopped onions, corn, and your favorite taco seasoning. Sauté for about 5-8 minutes until the corn turns golden.
Next, shred your leftover salmon with a fork and mix it with enchilada sauce, black beans, and some jalapeno juice for extra flavor.
Take a baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Pour some enchilada sauce at the bottom. Layer with flour tortillas, the salmon mixture, and shredded cheese. Repeat layers, topping with more tortillas and sauce, finishing with cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese melt and turn bubbly.
Serve your salmon enchiladas with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice on top. Enjoy!
13) Salmon Egg Muffins
Salmon Egg Muffins are a great way to use leftover salmon. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, a light lunch, or a protein-packed snack.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray a muffin tin with cooking oil.
In a large bowl, mix together 6 eggs, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and a handful of chopped chives. Add the leftover cooked salmon, flaked into small pieces.
Pour the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the muffins are set and slightly golden on top. Let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before removing.
These Salmon Egg Muffins can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a quick meal.
This recipe is flexible, so you can add vegetables like chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Enjoy these savory muffins hot or cold, depending on your preference.
14) Salmon Burger Patties
With leftover salmon, you can make delicious salmon burger patties. Start by checking the salmon for any remaining bones. Using a fork, flake the salmon into small pieces.
In a bowl, mix the flaked salmon with chopped onions and bell peppers. Add an egg and some breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Form the mixture into small patties. Make sure they are firm enough to hold their shape. Heat up a skillet with some olive oil over medium heat. Cook the patties until they are golden brown on both sides.
These salmon burger patties are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. You can serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings, like lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
You can also enjoy them without a bun for a low-carb option. They pair well with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables.
This is a simple and tasty way to use up your leftover salmon.
Benefits of Using Leftover Salmon
Using leftover salmon can enhance your meals with its nutritious benefits. It also helps you save money and contribute to environmental sustainability.
Nutritional Value
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. These healthy fats can lower your risk of heart disease and improve brain function. Additionally, salmon provides a good amount of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth.
You also get a healthy dose of vitamins like B12, D, and niacin. These nutrients boost your energy levels and support the immune system. Minerals like selenium and potassium are also present, helping in thyroid function and regulating fluid balance.
Eating leftover salmon keeps these nutritional benefits intact. The cooking process doesn’t strip away its vital nutrients, maintaining its health benefits even when reheated.
Cost Efficiency
Using leftover salmon can significantly cut down on your food expenses. By repurposing last night’s salmon into new meals, you avoid food waste and get more value from your purchase. This means you don’t need to cook a new protein, saving time and money.
With leftover salmon, you can make a variety of dishes, from salads to soups. These meals don’t require many extra ingredients, which lowers your grocery bill. Even leftover salmon can become the centerpiece of a delicious and healthy meal.
Sustainability
Repurposing leftover salmon also has environmental benefits. Reducing food waste means fewer resources are needed to produce, transport, and store food. Throwing away less food reduces the strain on landfills.
By using leftovers, you help decrease your carbon footprint. Commercial fishing and farming have significant environmental impacts, so making the most of what you have is a simple way to contribute to sustainability.
Incorporating leftover salmon into your meals supports a more sustainable lifestyle. It promotes responsible consumption and minimizes unnecessary waste, which benefits the planet.
Techniques for Storing and Reheating Leftover Salmon
Storing and reheating leftover salmon the right way ensures that it stays tasty and safe to eat. Proper techniques will help keep the salmon moist and flavorful.
Proper Storage Methods
To store leftover salmon, let it cool to room temperature first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
You can also wrap the salmon tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap before putting it in the container. This adds extra protection.
For the best quality, store the salmon in the fridge for no more than 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the freezer.
When freezing, wrap it in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and put it in a freezer bag. Salmon stored this way can last up to three months.
Reheating Tips
When reheating salmon, use slower methods to avoid drying it out. Avoid the microwave because it can make the salmon tough.
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for 15 minutes, or until it reaches 145°F internally.
Stovetop Method: Place leftovers in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water or oil to create steam, cover with a lid, and heat until warmed through.
Steamer Method: Set up a steamer and place the salmon inside. Cover and steam for about 4-5 minutes. If you don’t have a steamer, use a pan with a bit of water and a smaller pan inside for the salmon.
Flavor Pairings and Enhancements
Pairing leftover salmon with the right ingredients and sauces can elevate its taste and make your meals more exciting. Discover how to complement the rich flavor of salmon with fresh, bold ingredients and mouth-watering sauces.
Complementary Ingredients
Fresh Herbs: Pair your salmon with herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro. These herbs brighten up the rich flavor of the fish.
Vegetables: Crunchy vegetables such as cucumber, radishes, and bell peppers add a refreshing contrast. Root vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes also work well.
Grains: Rice, quinoa, and couscous provide a hearty base for salmon. These grains absorb the flavors of any seasonings and enhance the overall dish.
Citrus Fruits: Lemons and limes add a zesty kick. A squeeze of lemon juice can make leftover salmon taste fresh and vibrant.
Dairy: Use Greek yogurt or sour cream to create creamy sauces or spreads. Cheese such as feta or goat cheese can complement salmon’s texture.
Sauces and Marinades
Creamy Dill Sauce: Mix Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, and lemon juice to create a tangy, refreshing sauce. It’s perfect drizzled over salmon or used as a dip.
Soy Ginger Marinade: Combine soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. This marinade gives salmon a savory, slightly sweet flavor.
Honey Mustard Glaze: Blend honey and Dijon mustard for a simple yet delicious glaze. Brush it over your salmon and bake or grill for added depth of flavor.
Coconut Curry Sauce: Cook a coconut milk-based curry with spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin. This sauce adds warmth and richness, perfect for leftover salmon.
Tzatziki: For a Mediterranean twist, make tzatziki with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and mint. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs wonderfully with salmon.
Using these pairings and sauces will make your leftover salmon meals diverse and delightful.
