I know what you might be thinking. Canned salmon? Really?
But please just hear me out. This isn’t about settling for less. This is about taking a simple, shelf-stable ingredient and turning it into something magical.
Think golden brown patties, spicy rice bowls, and rich dips that make you feel like a kitchen wizard. The texture is perfect, the flavor is on point, and the prep time is minimal.
Trust me on this one. You are going to love it..
1. Salmon Chowder
This Salmon Chowder is thick, warm, and absolutely delicious.
We are talking about a cozy mix of potatoes, bacon, onions, and corn swimming in a rich half-and-half cream base. It is simple, but it is incredibly filling.
This is exactly the kind of main dish you want for those long, cold fall and winter nights. It uses everyday pantry staples, so you probably have everything you need in your kitchen right this second.
But if you are feeling a little fancy? Try swapping in smoked salmon.
2. Salmon Spring Rolls
Usually when it comes to spring rolls, I am all about the vegetarian or chicken versions. However, these flaked salmon spring rolls are just phenomenal.
I am loving the fresh, minty taste and how the vermicelli and cilantro complement the salmon so well.
There is also a delightful crunchiness from the carrots and bok choy that I just love.
3. Salmon Burgers
Who says burgers have to be beefy? You can shake things up with these salmon burgers that are every bit as juicy and delicious.
The best part is that you can cook them up with just a few pantry ingredients.
The recipe might call for fresh salmon, but you can easily swap in the canned stuff for a quicker meal.
Load up your bun with all the classic fixings like fresh tomatoes, melty cheddar cheese, lettuce, and yogurt sauce.
4. Salmon Salad
Whether you eat it by itself, on crackers, or as a sandwich, this simple salmon salad is sure to be a hit.
We are adding so much flavor to the mild salmon with carrots, bell peppers, avocados, and capers.
The mayo and yogurt give this simple side dish a smooth creaminess that just brings everything together. Best of all? It involves zero cooking.
5. Salmon Souffle
This recipe takes a little over an hour to make, but if you want to impress everyone with your culinary skills, this is the way to do it.
It is light, fluffy, and airy, and it has a spectacular herby taste thanks to chives and parsley.
This dish is a little high in calories, but with only 15 carbs per serving, the count is pretty reasonable for a complete meal.
6. Onigiri
These Japanese rice balls are a fun way to eat rice and a perfect on-the-go meal. The best part is that you can customize the filling to suit your taste.
Sometimes I like to mix cream cheese with the fish for a richer flavor and consistency.
While I prefer spicy salmon, you can also try tuna salad or any other seafood filling for a different twist.
7. Salmon Patties
With this recipe, you can make simple salmon patties in 30 minutes or less. It is a must-add to your weekly meal rotation. They are slightly crispy on the outside but have tender, creamy insides.
The intense flavor comes from the addition of cayenne pepper, garlic, and Dijon mustard. The breadcrumbs add texture, and the Greek yogurt gives them that inner creaminess.
8. Salmon Rice Bowl
When it comes to salmon, rice is always a good idea. This rice bowl features cooked salmon, rainbow veggies, and a zesty mayo sriracha sauce that ties all the flavors together.
Whether you prefer white, red, or brown rice, this meal can be customized to your taste. It is vibrant, delicious, and satisfying.
9. Salmon Croquettes
Salmon croquettes are crispy little cakes that are perfect for a last-minute lunch or dinner.
A mixture of salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and onions is formed into patties and fried until golden brown.
If you are more of a tuna person, by all means, swap out the fish. Serve them up with a side salad, lemon wedges, and maybe even a dollop of tartar sauce with fresh dill.
10. Smoked Salmon Dip
Make this creamy smoked salmon dip for a party appetizer you won’t soon forget. This delectable dip is made with cream cheese, sour cream, and smoked salmon.
But don’t worry if you don’t have smoked salmon on hand—you can use canned or cooked salmon instead for convenience. Serve it up with some crackers or toasted baguette slices.
11. Salmon Pasta
Picture this: perfectly al dente pasta coated in a luxurious blend of cream, garlic, and herbs, adorned with chunks of flaked salmon.
If this canned salmon pasta doesn’t make your taste buds tingle, I don’t know what will.
One bite and you will be hooked, craving for more of this delectable main dish. If you are looking for romantic dinner recipes, this one perfectly fits the bill.
12. Salmon Salad Sandwich
This canned salmon salad is smoother than the chunky version I mentioned earlier.
This simple dish is more like a classic chicken or tuna salad equivalent, and it is made with simple pantry ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
All you need to make it is canned salmon, mayo, green onions, celery, and dill. It tastes better the next day, too, making it ideal for meal prep.
13. Salmon Wraps
This recipe provides you with three different ways to make salmon wraps, and each one is quick, simple, and ideal for lunch on days when you don’t have a lot of time.
Whether you go with the “everything bagel,” “sushi,” or “Caesar salad lettuce wraps,” it shouldn’t take you longer than 10 minutes to pull it together.
The resulting dish will undoubtedly be appetizing.
14. Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Crema
Spice up your meatball game with a delicious twist—baked salmon meatballs! Taking these little patties to the next level is a luscious avocado crema made with avocado, Greek yogurt, and garlic.
Feeling extra indulgent? Top them off with some melted cheddar cheese for a burst of gooey, cheesy goodness. Serve them with rice or a la sliders for a fun and healthy meal.
15. Salmon Cakes
Salmon cakes are a great recipe to use up canned or leftover cooked salmon.
Rich, briny, and flaky, this party must-have is addictive, especially when served with tartar sauce.
16. Kale Salmon Caesar Salad
Need more salmon recipes to add to your menu rotation? This canned salmon pasta salad is ready in no time—just 25 minutes, tops!
It is creamy and delicious, but the overall flavor is somewhat milder than I usually like.
To offset that, I usually add a pinch of garlic and some diced scallions. Enjoy this salad on its own for a light lunch or with a rice bowl.
17. Salmon Cracker Spread
If you are looking for a way to add more seafood to your party platter, this canned salmon recipe is the way to do it. It is simple, taking only 20 minutes to cook if you are using fresh salmon.
If you are using canned fish, it comes together in half the time! Simply mix some pantry staples and let the mixture chill in the fridge until you are ready to serve it.
