Basic Best Salmon Loaf
A savory salmon loaf with fresh herbs and lemon, perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal suited to family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and flake the salmon.
- Slightly beat the eggs.
- Combine all ingredients, including salmon, bread crumbs, minced onion, milk or salmon juice, eggs, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into an 8 x 4-inch loaf tin.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Alternatively, if using less liquid, shape into patties and brown in a frying pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful salmon loaf, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or chopped capers. If you don't have soft bread crumbs, you can use crushed cracker crumbs or stale bread. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free bread crumbs. Make sure to drain the salmon thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon loaf with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with a tangy tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. For a complete dinner, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad. This dish also makes a delightful sandwich filling for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salmon loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals to avoid drying out the loaf.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Best Salmon Loaf contains roughly 182 calories, with 6g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 495mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh salmon, but you'll need to cook it first and ensure it's flaked properly. About 1 pound of cooked fresh salmon should work well as a substitute for a 15 oz. can.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the salmon loaf dairy-free, substitute the milk with a non-dairy milk option such as almond milk or oat milk. You can also use the juice from the canned salmon for added flavor.
Can I freeze the salmon loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked salmon loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).