Easy Homemade Salmon Loaf Recipe – Classic Comfort Food
As the sun sets and the day winds down, nothing beats the smell of a homemade meal. The classic salmon loaf is a favorite of mine. It brings back memories of cozy family dinners and the flavors of my childhood.
Today, I’m excited to share this easy salmon loaf recipe with you. It turns canned salmon into a delicious comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights and budget-friendly family gatherings.
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Why This Classic Salmon Loaf Recipe Is a Must-Try
Looking for an easy recipe for busy weeknights? Try the classic salmon loaf. Quick to prepare, the dish bakes in 45-60 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner for the family.
This affordable meal uses canned salmon and pantry items. Great for those on a budget. Even picky eaters might enjoy it, thanks to its flexibility with seasonings.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This salmon loaf recipe is ready in just 1 hour. A quick and easy solution exists for hectic weeknights. It requires only two 213g cans of Clover Leaf sockeye salmon.
Budget-Friendly Family Meal
Canned salmon is the main ingredient in this affordable meal. It also needs two large eggs, half a cup of milk, and bread crumbs. This versatile dish serves up to six people, making it ideal for family dinners.
Versatile Comfort Food Option
The classic salmon loaf is a quick dinner and a comforting versatile dish. You can customize it with your favorite seasonings and sides. Try it with a tangy dill sauce for a special touch.
“This salmon loaf recipe is a real lifesaver on those busy weeknights. So easy to make, and the whole family loves it. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.” – Sarah, home cook
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools
To make the perfect canned salmon loaf, you need a few key things. Start with a 14.75-15 ounce can of canned salmon, preferably red. Pink salmon works too. You’ll also need eggs, milk, butter, and either saltine crackers or soft bread cubes to bind it all together.
Adding diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and rice vinegar can give it extra flavor. You’ll need a loaf pan, a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a spatula to mix it all up.
If using canned salmon, you can choose to remove bones and skin. They’re both good for you and add flavor. The goal is to mix moist and tasty ingredients for a great salmon loaf.
With these ingredients and tools, you can create a comforting, budget-friendly meal. Just follow the recipe closely for the best taste. Get ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic salmon loaf recipe.
Step-by-Step Salmon Loaf Recipe
Making a tasty salmon loaf at home is simple. Just follow these easy steps. You’ll have a comforting dish ready for busy nights or family meals.
Preparing the Salmon Mixture
First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Flake the salmon in a small bowl into smaller pieces. If using canned salmon, remove bones and skin first.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mix eggs, melted butter, and milk. Add crushed crackers or bread cubes and seasonings like black pepper. Fold the salmon into the mix until it’s well combined.
Baking Instructions
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and fill it with the salmon mix. Bake the salmon loaf for 45-55 minutes. It should puff and brown on top. Let it cool a bit before slicing and serving.
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious and healthy salmon loaf. Perfect with your favorite sides for a full meal.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Texture
Making the perfect salmon loaf needs careful handling of ingredients and the right moisture. When using canned salmon, you can choose to remove bones and skin. Break the salmon into small pieces for even mixing in the salmon mixture.
To balance moisture, use the right amount of liquid like milk. Also, add binding agents like eggs and crackers or bread. For extra taste, add lemon juice or dried dill. Whipping egg whites and folding them in can make the texture lighter and fluffier.
Handling Canned Salmon
- Decide whether to remove bones and skin based on personal preference
- Break the salmon into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the mixture
Getting the Right Moisture Balance
- Use the proper amount of liquid, such as milk, to achieve the desired consistency
- Incorporate binding agents like eggs, crackers, or bread to hold the mixture together
- Consider adding lemon juice or dried dill for extra flavor
- Whip egg whites separately and fold them in for a lighter, fluffier texture
“The key to a great salmon loaf is balancing moist salmon, binding ingredients, and extra flavors.”
Nutritional Benefits and Health Value
Salmon loaf is a nutritious meal that offers many health benefits. Rich in protein, the product contains about 15g per serving. This makes it great for building and repairing tissues.
The dish is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. These are key for heart and brain health. They help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.
If the recipe includes bones from the canned salmon, it adds calcium. This is essential for strong bones and teeth. Canned salmon is a good source of vitamin D. This vitamin helps with immune function and energy levels.
Each serving of this salmon loaf recipe has about 201 calories, 12g of fat, and 8g of carbohydrates. This makes it a balanced and nutritious meal option.
However, the recipe is relatively high in sodium, with about 140mg per serving. For those with dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s wise to adjust the recipe. Or seek professional guidance to make sure it meets their nutritional needs.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this salmon loaf recipe?
The main ingredients are canned salmon (14.75-15 ounces), eggs, milk, and butter. You can also use crushed saltine crackers or soft bread cubes. Optional items include diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and rice vinegar.
What kitchen tools do you need to make this salmon loaf?
You’ll need a loaf pan, mixing bowl, whisk, and spatula.
Can I use pink salmon instead of red salmon?
Yes, pink salmon works well in this recipe. While people prefer red salmon, they can use pink salmon as a good substitute.
Do I need to remove the bones and skin from the canned salmon?
Removing bones and skin is optional. They are safe to eat and add nutrients to your dish.
How can I achieve the right moisture balance in the salmon loaf?
Use the right amount of milk and binding agents like eggs and crackers/bread. This ensures the loaf is moist but not soggy.
How can I make the salmon loaf texture lighter?
For a lighter texture, separate the eggs. Whip the whites until stiff, then fold them into the mixture.
What are the nutritional benefits of this salmon loaf?
Salmon loaf contains high levels of protein, omega-3s, and vitamins. It has about 28-29g of protein per serving.
Also good for your heart and brain. If you include bones, it adds calcium. Canned salmon is also a great source of vitamin D.
