Simple Canned Salmon Recipes: Easy and Delicious Meals in Minutes

Canned salmon is a kitchen superhero that deserves more attention. This affordable pantry staple packs impressive nutrition and transforms into delicious meals within minutes. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who loves quick cooking, canned salmon offers endless possibilities.

Many people wonder what to mix with canned salmon or how to prepare it properly. The truth is, this versatile ingredient works beautifully in everything from crispy salmon patties to creamy pasta dishes. Following these simple canned salmon recipes you can create restaurant-quality meals without spending hours in the kitchen or breaking your budget.

In this guide, you’ll discover simple canned salmon recipes that taste amazing and require minimal ingredients. From healthy salads to comforting casseroles, these dishes will make canned salmon your new favorite ingredient.

What Do You Mix Canned Salmon With?

Canned salmon pairs wonderfully with many everyday ingredients:

Binding agents: Eggs, breadcrumbs, crackers, and mayonnaise help hold salmon patties together while adding moisture and flavor.

Grains: Rice, quinoa, pasta, and couscous create filling meals when mixed with salmon.

Fresh vegetables: Cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and celery add crunch and freshness to salmon salads.

Dairy products: Cream cheese, sour cream, and Greek yogurt make salmon dips and spreads incredibly creamy.

Seasonings: Lemon juice, dill, garlic, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning enhance salmon’s natural flavor without overpowering it.

How Do You Prepare Canned Salmon to Eat?

Preparing canned salmon takes just a few simple steps:

First, open the can and drain the liquid completely. Transfer the salmon to a bowl. Check for any skin or bones. While these are edible and contain calcium, you can remove them if you prefer a smoother texture.

Use a fork to flake the salmon into smaller pieces. This makes it easier to mix with other ingredients and ensures even distribution in your recipes.

For cold dishes like salads and sandwiches, you can use the salmon straight from the can after draining. For hot dishes like patties or casseroles, you’ll mix it with other ingredients before cooking.

What Seasoning Goes on Salmon?

The best seasonings for canned salmon include:

• Lemon and dill: This classic combination brightens the salmon’s flavor
• Garlic powder and paprika: Adds depth and a subtle smokiness
• Old Bay seasoning: Perfect for giving salmon patties a coastal feel
• Black pepper and parsley: Simple but effective for any salmon dish
• Cajun spices: Creates a bold, spicy kick
• Italian herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme work great in pasta dishes

Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste preferences. Canned salmon already has some salt, so be careful not to oversalt your dishes.

Simple Canned Salmon Recipes

1. Classic Salmon Patties

These crispy, golden patties are comfort food at its finest.

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes
Servings	6-8 patties

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (14 oz total) pink salmon, drained
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Method:

1. Place drained salmon in a large bowl and flake with a fork
2. Add eggs, breadcrumbs, onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasonings
3. Mix everything together until well combined
4. Shape mixture into 6-8 patties about 3/4 inch thick
5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat
6. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy
7. Drain on paper towels before serving

Serving: Serve hot with tartar sauce, a squeeze of lemon, and a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Storage: Refrigerate cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F for best results.

2. Simple Canned Salmon Recipes with Rice

This one-pot meal combines protein and carbs in a satisfying dish.

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes
Servings	4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 can (7 oz) salmon, drained
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Green onions for garnish

Method:

1. Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
3. Toss in frozen vegetables and cook for 5 minutes
4. Add cooked rice and stir to combine
5. Flake in the salmon and drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil
6. Stir gently and cook for 3 minutes until heated through
7. Garnish with sliced green onions

Serving: Enjoy immediately as a complete meal. Add sriracha or chili flakes if you like spice.

Storage: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a sealed container.

3. Healthy Canned Salmon Salad

A light, nutritious option perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	10 minutes
Servings	2 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 can (7 oz) salmon, drained
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Arrange mixed greens on a large plate or bowl
2. Top with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and avocado
3. Flake salmon over the vegetables
4. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper
5. Drizzle dressing over the salad
6. Toss gently before eating

Serving: Serve immediately with whole grain crackers or crusty bread on the side.

Storage: Store dressing separately and keep assembled salad in the fridge for up to 1 day.

4. Creamy Canned Salmon Pasta

This comforting pasta dish comes together in under 20 minutes.

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes
Servings	4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 can (7 oz) salmon, drained
• 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer
5. Add frozen peas and cook for 2 minutes
6. Flake in the salmon and stir gently
7. Add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese
8. Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper
9. Garnish with fresh dill

Serving: Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating.

5. Easy Canned Salmon Sandwich

A quick lunch option that’s both filling and tasty.

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time	8 minutes
Cook Time	2 minutes (toasting)
Total Time	10 minutes
Servings	2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (7 oz) salmon, drained
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
• Lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices
• 4 slices of bread (toasted)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Flake salmon in a bowl
2. Add mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and capers
3. Mix well and season with salt and pepper
4. Toast your bread slices
5. Spread salmon mixture on two slices
6. Top with lettuce and tomato
7. Close sandwiches with remaining bread

Serving: Cut in half and serve with chips or a side of fresh fruit.

Storage: Keep salmon mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble sandwiches fresh when ready to eat.

6. Simple Canned Salmon Casserole

This cozy casserole feeds a crowd and uses simple ingredients.

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes (toasting)
Total Time	45 minutes
Servings	6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (14 oz total) salmon, drained
• 8 oz egg noodles, cooked
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed crackers
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, soup, sour cream, peas, and garlic powder
3. Flake in the salmon and half the cheese
4. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish
5. Top with remaining cheese
6. Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle on top
7. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden

Serving: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pairs well with a green salad.

Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven.

Nutritional Value of Canned Salmon

Canned salmon is a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a spot in your weekly meal plan.

Per 3-ounce serving:

• Calories: 130-140
• Protein: 17-20 grams
• Fat: 6-8 grams (mostly healthy omega-3s)
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams

Key nutrients:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Support heart and brain health
• Vitamin D: Important for bone health and immune function
• Calcium: Especially high if you eat the bones
• Vitamin B12: Essential for energy and nerve function
• Selenium: A powerful antioxidant

Pink salmon typically has slightly less fat than sockeye salmon, making it a great choice if you’re watching calories. Both varieties provide excellent protein and nutrients.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Canned Salmon Dishes

Choosing quality canned salmon: Look for wild-caught salmon from Alaska. Check the label for “no salt added” options if you’re monitoring sodium intake.

Removing fishy smell: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to your salmon before mixing. This brightens the flavor and reduces any strong fish odor.

Making patties that hold together: Chill your salmon mixture for 30 minutes before shaping. This helps the patties stay intact during cooking.

Preventing dry dishes: Don’t overcook salmon patties or casseroles. Watch for golden edges and remove from heat promptly.

Enhancing flavor: Toast breadcrumbs in butter before adding to recipes. This simple step adds incredible depth.

Using the liquid: Don’t always discard the canning liquid. It contains nutrients and can be added to soups or used to moisten dry dishes.

Avoiding mushy texture: Handle the salmon gently when mixing. Overworking breaks down the texture and makes dishes pasty.

Stretching your budget: Mix salmon with beans or chickpeas to make it go further without sacrificing protein.

Alternative Methods and Variations

Air fryer salmon: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method uses less oil and creates extra crispy.

Baked salmon cakes: Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Flip once for even browning.

Grilled salmon burgers: Form thicker patties and grill over medium heat for 5 minutes per side. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

Salmon rice bowls: Build custom bowls with rice, salmon, pickled vegetables, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo.

Mediterranean style: Mix canned salmon with chickpeas, feta cheese, olives, and cucumber for a Greek-inspired salad.

Asian fusion: Combine salmon with ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi mayo for salmon onigiri or hand rolls.

Breakfast option: Mix salmon with scrambled eggs, cream cheese, and chives for a protein-packed morning meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is canned salmon as healthy as fresh salmon?

Yes, canned salmon is just as nutritious as fresh. The canning process preserves omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients. In fact, canned salmon with bones provides extra calcium.

Should I rinse canned salmon?

You don’t need to rinse canned salmon. Simply drain the liquid. Rinsing removes some of the natural flavor and nutrients.

Can I use canned salmon in recipes that call for fresh salmon?

Absolutely. Canned salmon works well in cooked dishes like casseroles, pasta, and patties. For raw preparations like poke bowls, stick with fresh salmon.

What’s the difference between pink and red canned salmon?

Pink salmon has a milder flavor and lighter color. Red salmon (sockeye) has a richer taste and deeper color. Both work well in recipes, so choose based on your budget and taste preference.

How long does canned salmon last once opened?

Transfer opened canned salmon to a covered container and refrigerate. Use within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.

Can I freeze dishes made with canned salmon?

Yes, salmon patties and casseroles freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Avoid freezing mayonnaise-based salads as they don’t thaw well.

Why are my salmon patties falling apart?

Add more binding ingredients like eggs or breadcrumbs. Make sure to drain the salmon thoroughly and chill the mixture before cooking.

Can children eat canned salmon?

Yes, canned salmon is safe for children and provides important nutrients for growing bodies. Remove any bones if your child prefers, though the bones are soft and edible.

Is the skin in canned salmon safe to eat?

The skin is completely safe and adds nutrients. It softens during canning and blends easily into recipes. You can remove it if you prefer.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in salmon patties?

Try crushed crackers, panko, oat flour, almond meal, or mashed potatoes. Each option creates a slightly different texture but works well as a binder.

Conclusion

Simple canned salmon recipes prove that healthy, delicious meals don’t require fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. This affordable pantry staple transforms into everything from crispy salmon patties to creamy pasta dishes in minutes.

You now have a collection of quick and simple canned salmon recipes that work for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Whether you prefer canned pink salmon recipes for their mild flavor or hearty salmon casseroles for comfort food cravings, there’s something here for everyone.

The beauty of canned salmon lies in its versatility. Mix it with rice for a filling dinner, toss it in salads for a light lunch, or make sandwiches for quick meals on the go. Each recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Start with one recipe this week and discover why canned salmon deserves a permanent spot in your pantry. Your wallet, your health, and your taste buds will thank you. Happy cooking!