Looking for easy and delicious meal ideas using a pantry staple? Canned salmon is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s often more affordable and convenient than fresh salmon, making it a great choice for quick and budget-friendly meals.
You can create a wide range of dishes from salads and sandwiches to hearty casseroles and savory croquettes. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you want to try something new without spending too much time in the kitchen. Dive into these 15 canned salmon recipes and discover how this humble ingredient can surprise and delight you.
1) Salmon Patties
Salmon patties are a simple yet tasty option for any meal. You’ll need canned salmon, bread crumbs, onions, and an egg for binding. Mix these ingredients together until well combined. If the mixture is too dry, you can add some of the liquid from the canned salmon.
Form the mixture into patties using your hands. Each patty should be about half an inch thick. You can chill the patties in the fridge for about 15 to 30 minutes to help them firm up before cooking.
Heat some oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, place the patties in the skillet. Cook until they are golden brown, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Once cooked, place the patties on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot and enjoy! Salmon patties pair well with a side salad, some tartar sauce, or even in a sandwich.
2) Canned Salmon Salad
Making canned salmon salad is quick and simple. Start by draining the salmon and flaking it with a fork. Remove any bones you find.
Next, add mayonnaise and mustard to the salmon. You can also mix in some Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Dice some red onion, celery, or bell peppers. Add them to the bowl for crunch. Chopped parsley or dill gives a fresh flavor boost.
For seasoning, sprinkle in some salt and pepper. You might also want to add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Stir everything together well. You can serve it right away or refrigerate it for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Enjoy your canned salmon salad on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers.
3) Salmon Croquettes
Canned salmon makes it easy to whip up delicious salmon croquettes at home. These are simple to make and packed with flavor.
Start by draining your canned salmon. In a bowl, combine the salmon with breadcrumbs, a beaten egg, and some fresh lemon juice. You can also add soul food seasoning or lemon pepper for extra zest.
Next, mix in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions. These add texture and taste. Form the mixture into small patties that will be easy to fry.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.
Serve your salmon croquettes with a side of dipping sauce or fresh salad. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any meal.
4) Salmon Quiche
Salmon Quiche is a tasty and easy dish you can make with canned salmon. This quiche combines the rich flavors of salmon with a creamy egg mixture and cheese, all baked in a pie crust.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats up, you can prepare the filling.
Whisk together eggs and heavy cream in a large bowl. Add some salt and pepper for seasoning.
You’ll need to prepare the canned salmon. Remove the skin, bones, and cartilage before adding it to the egg mixture.
Include some shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for extra flavor.
Pour the mixture into a prepared pie crust. Use a frozen deep dish or a refrigerated crust that you place in a 9-inch pie pan.
Bake the quiche for about 45 to 50 minutes. It’s ready when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. You can sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s both delicious and packed with protein, making it a great choice for any meal.
5) Salmon Pasta
Salmon pasta is an easy meal you can make with canned salmon. First, boil your favorite pasta in a pot of salted water. Cook it until it’s al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté chopped garlic until it’s fragrant. Add the canned salmon, breaking it up gently with a spoon.
For a creamy version, add a bit of cream, salt, and pepper. Mix in some of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce come together. Toss the drained pasta in the pan until everything is well coated.
You can also add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or onions. Sauté the veggies until they are tender before mixing them with the salmon and pasta. This adds more flavor and nutrients to your dish.
Finish by sprinkling with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or grated Parmesan cheese. This dish is quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
6) Salmon Sushi Bowls
Salmon sushi bowls are a quick and tasty way to enjoy the flavors of sushi at home. Start by cooking some rice. You can use white or brown rice. Once the rice is cooked, let it cool to room temperature.
While the rice cools, prepare the salmon. Canned salmon works great for this recipe. Mix the salmon with a bit of mayonnaise and sriracha for a spicy kick. This adds a creamy and flavorful touch to your bowl.
Next, chop up some fresh vegetables. Cucumbers, avocados, and scallions are excellent choices. These add crunch and freshness to your dish.
To assemble the bowl, place a serving of rice at the bottom. Top it with your salmon mixture and the chopped vegetables. Sprinkle on some sesame seeds and a bit of furikake if you enjoy extra flavor.
Drizzle a bit of soy sauce or tamari over the top. You can also add a bit more sriracha if you like your food spicy. Enjoy your homemade salmon sushi bowl with some pickled ginger on the side.
7) Salmon and Rice Casserole
Salmon and rice casserole combines convenience with tasty flavors. You start by draining a can of salmon and mixing it with cooked rice. The recipe calls for extras like milk, cheese, and seasonings to boost the flavor.
After mixing these ingredients well, transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with buttered breadcrumbs or crackers for a crunchy finish.
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven until golden and bubbly. This dish works great for family dinners or potlucks. The combination of creamy salmon and rice makes it a satisfying meal.
8) Salmon Chowder
Salmon chowder is a comforting and hearty dish. You can make it easily with canned salmon, which saves both time and effort. This rich, warm chowder is perfect for cool evenings.
Start by sautéing diced onions, celery, and garlic in some melted butter until they are soft. This forms the base of your chowder and adds a depth of flavor.
Add in diced potatoes and chicken broth. Let the mixture come to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, usually about 15-20 minutes.
Next, break the canned salmon into bite-sized chunks. If there’s skin or bones in the salmon, remove those first. Then, add the salmon pieces to the pot.
Pour in some milk or cream, depending on how creamy you want your chowder to be. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Finally, add any extra ingredients you like. Corn, carrots, and dill are popular choices. Let the chowder simmer gently for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serve your salmon chowder hot with a side of crusty bread. This dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
9) Salmon Burgers
Salmon burgers are a tasty way to enjoy canned salmon. They are easy to make and packed with flavor.
To start, drain your canned salmon and place it in a large bowl. Add ingredients like egg, breadcrumbs, and chopped fresh dill. These bind the mixture and add taste.
Mix in some sliced green onions, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You can also add seasonings like Old Bay or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Shape the mixture into patties, making sure they are about four ounces each. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil.
Cook the salmon burgers for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Make sure to flip them carefully to keep them intact.
Serve your salmon burgers on a lightly toasted bun. You can add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, or avocado. Dress with sauces like tartar sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with herbs.
These burgers are perfect for a quick, healthy meal. Enjoy the savory taste of salmon with every bite!
10) Salmon Dip
Salmon dip is a quick and easy appetizer. Using canned salmon, you can make this delicious dip in just a few minutes.
Start by draining the salmon. You can either flake it or mash it, depending on your texture preference.
Combine the salmon with softened cream cheese. Add some sour cream, lemon juice, and diced green onions for extra flavor.
For seasoning, mix in some salt and pepper. Fresh dill or parsley can add a nice herby touch.
Blend all the ingredients together until smooth. You can use a food processor or simply mix them by hand.
Serve immediately with crackers or veggies. You can also refrigerate it if you prefer a chilled dip.
Enjoy this tasty and easy salmon dip at any gathering.
11) Salmon Muffins
Salmon muffins are a delicious way to enjoy canned salmon. They are quick to make and great for any meal.
Start by mixing canned salmon with eggs, cheese, and your favorite vegetables, like chopped chives and asparagus. You can add herbs and spices for extra flavor.
Spray a muffin tin with oil, then pour the mixture into each cup. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until set.
These muffins are versatile. Serve them warm or cold. They are perfect for lunchboxes or as a snack. They also work well for brunch or dinner. Enjoy them on their own or with a side salad.
12) Salmon Tacos
Salmon tacos are a delicious and healthy meal you can easily prepare. Begin by preparing a tasty slaw. Mix cabbage, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and toss until combined.
Next, drain and flake canned salmon with a fork. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the salmon until heated through.
Warm your tortillas in a separate skillet or the microwave. Place the flaked salmon on each tortilla. Top with the slaw you prepared earlier.
If you like, add some extra toppings. Try avocado slices, sour cream, or a fresh fruit salsa. For the fruit salsa, mix diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
Serve the tacos immediately while they’re warm. These salmon tacos make for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week. Keep this recipe in mind for a handy, healthy option.
13) Salmon Stuffed Peppers
Salmon stuffed peppers are a straightforward and tasty way to use canned salmon. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cut off the tops of your bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add cooked rice, canned salmon, lemon juice, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Spoon this mixture into your prepared peppers, filling them to the top.
For another variation, you can sauté chopped zucchini with salmon, salt, and red pepper flakes in a pan over medium heat. Add brown rice and diced tomatoes until the liquid evaporates and forms a thick mixture.
Another recipe suggests boiling the peppers in salted water for 5 minutes before draining them. Combine onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and salmon. Fill the pepper shells with this mixture and top with a breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture.
Bake the peppers in a baking dish until they are tender and the stuffing is cooked through. Enjoy hot with a side of your choice.
These peppers are a creative way to make a nutritious and filling meal out of canned salmon. They are full of flavor and easy to make for any night of the week.
14) Salmon Frittata
A Salmon Frittata is a great way to start your day or serve as a quick lunch. You can use canned salmon, which makes it both budget-friendly and easy.
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Saute onions in a skillet over medium heat until they are translucent. Then, add your preferred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for extra flavor.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they are well mixed. You can add some milk or heavy cream to make the frittata fluffier. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
Pour the egg mixture into the skillet over the sautéed veggies. Gently stir in the canned salmon, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Let it cook for a few minutes until the edges start to set.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the center is firm and the top is slightly golden.
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious and easy Salmon Frittata.
15) Salmon Spread
Salmon spread is a tasty and quick appetizer. You can make it in just minutes and serve it with crackers or bread.
Start by flaking canned salmon with a fork. In a bowl, mix the salmon with mayonnaise, capers, and some fresh green onions. You can also add red onions and dill for more flavor.
For a creamier texture, add some cream cheese to the mix. A squeeze of lemon juice will add a bit of tanginess.
To finish, taste the spread and add salt if needed. You can refrigerate it until ready to serve.
Salmon spread is perfect for parties or a simple snack.
Nutritional Benefits of Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is a nutritious option that offers several health benefits. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, provides a high amount of protein, and contains several essential vitamins and minerals.
High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your body and beneficial for heart health. Canned salmon is packed with these healthy fats. These fats can help lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation in the body. Regular consumption may also aid in improving brain function and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Moreover, omega-3s are linked to lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes. They may also support mental health by reducing symptoms of depression. If you don’t get enough omega-3s from other sources, canned salmon is an excellent addition to your diet.
Rich Source of Protein
Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues in your body. Canned salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A single serving can provide around 20 grams of protein, which is significant for muscle maintenance and growth. It also helps keep you full longer, aiding in weight management.
Protein from canned salmon includes all the essential amino acids your body needs. It’s a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake without consuming too many calories or fat. This makes it especially beneficial for athletes and those in weight-training programs.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Canned salmon is not only rich in protein and omega-3s but also boasts a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function and the formation of red blood cells. Additionally, it provides vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function.
Minerals like selenium and iodine are also found in canned salmon. Selenium is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage, while iodine is essential for thyroid function. Adding canned salmon to your diet can help you receive these vital nutrients, supporting overall health.
These benefits make canned salmon a valuable and versatile addition to your meals.
Tips for Selecting and Storing Canned Salmon
When choosing and keeping canned salmon, it’s vital to pay attention to labels, varieties, and proper storage to ensure freshness and quality.
Understanding Labels and Varieties
Labels on canned salmon can provide a lot of useful information. Look for descriptors like “wild-caught” to ensure the fish was sourced from natural habitats. “Sockeye” and “Pink” are common varieties; sockeye is richer in flavor, while pink is milder.
Read the labels for any added ingredients such as salt or oils. Some cans may contain skin and bones, which are edible and offer extra nutrients like calcium. Opt for BPA-free cans to avoid potential health risks from the packaging.
Proper Storage Techniques
Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place like a pantry. Avoid storing in humid areas to prevent rust. The expiration date on the can will give you an idea of how long it can be kept. Rotate your stock so that older cans are used first.
Once opened, transfer any unused salmon to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should be consumed within 3-4 days. Do not store opened cans in the fridge, as the metal can interact with the fish and impact its taste and safety.
