Curried Salmon Loaf
A comforting, savory salmon loaf infused with warm curry notes, bright pimientos, and creamy cheddar, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a hearty vegetarian-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. canned salmon, drained and flaked ⓘ
- 1 (2 oz.) jar pimientos, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt ⓘ
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped ⓘ
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup pickle relish ⓘ
- 1 cup bread crumbs or cooked rice ⓘ
- 1 cup carrots, blender chopped ⓘ
- 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, grated ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 cup hot curried white sauce ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix the canned salmon, pimientos, yogurt, celery, eggs, pickle relish, bread crumbs or cooked rice, carrots, cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and hot curried white sauce in a large bowl.
- Press the mixture into a greased loaf pan.
- Sprinkle the top with bread crumbs sautéed in butter with a touch of thyme or rosemary.
- Bake at 375°F for 1 hour, or until the loaf is firm and the top is golden.
- Serve warm with extra curry sauce on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider substituting the canned salmon with tuna for a different flavor profile, similar to Tuna-Noodle Salad Casserole. Ensure to drain the fish well to avoid excess moisture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or use a spicier curry powder in the white sauce. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Curried Salmon Loaf warm, with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with extra curry sauce on the side for dipping. This dish also makes for a great sandwich filling, similar to the Best Salmon Spread, offering a unique twist to your lunch options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring the loaf retains its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Salmon Loaf contains roughly 725 calories, with 28g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (245% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 959mg per serving (42% 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 cooked fresh salmon instead of canned. Make sure to cook it thoroughly, flake it, and incorporate it into the mixture. This can enhance the flavor and texture of the loaf, making it even more delicious.
What can I serve with the salmon loaf?
The salmon loaf pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables, adding freshness to the dish. You can also serve it with a side of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. A dollop of yogurt or extra curry sauce can enhance the flavor further.
Can I freeze the salmon loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the salmon loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the original instructions.
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).