27 Deliciously Easy Canned Salmon Recipes (2024)

Easy and healthy canned salmon recipes! These quick and easy recipes using canned salmon make quick and easy lunch ideas, a healthy snack, or light dinner.

27 Deliciously Easy Canned Salmon Recipes (1)

We all know the benefits of fresh salmon. It’s a great source of protein, chock full of healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin d, while still being low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

But having access to – or the budget for – fresh fish is not always an option…

Luckily, if you have a can of salmon in your pantry, you can make a ton of delicious meals!

I put together a whole list of easy canned salmon recipes so that you have lots of inspiration for what to make with this healthy pantry staple.

(And if you go to Costco, you know their brand is a cult favorite, so you’ll definitely want to have some Kirkland canned salmon recipes on hand.)

Let’s put those cans of salmon to good use!

Note: You can also make these recipes with fresh, wild salmon or sockeye salmon if you happen to have some left over or on hand in the freezer!

What to make with canned salmon

1. Salmon wraps

One of the best parts of canned salmon is its versatility.

Salmon wraps are the perfect example of how you can customize it to your favorite flavor profile.

From salmon caesar salad wraps, to an everything from the bagel seasoning version, to salmon sushi wraps, the possibilities are endless.

Common ingredients you can use for salmon wraps are:

  • Tortillas
  • Cream cheese
  • Cucumbers
  • Bell peppers
  • Green onions
  • Shredded carrots
  • Tartar sauce
  • Pickles ginger
  • Brown rice
  • Hummus
  • Black beans
  • Lettuce (or other crunchy veggies)
  • Red onion
  • Salad dressing
  • Lemon juice
  • Fresh herbs (ie. fresh dill)
  • Dijon mustard
  • Greek yogurt
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame seeds

This simple recipe makes the perfect light lunch or easy dinner!

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2. Salmon burgers

With just a few ingredients you probably have on hand, you can whip up a batch of salmon burgers.

This is one of those healthy recipes that tastes indulgent, and will please even your hardiest eater.

Serve them on a bun or not, and add some potato chips, rice, french fries, or a salad on the side.

3. Salmon salad sandwich

This canned salmon salad recipe has a creamy lemon and dill sauce that’s to die for.

Simply mix together salmon, mayo, celery, and lemon juice in a large bowl, and it’s ready to spread on your favorite bread or crackers.

For low carb canned salmon recipes, eat it on its own or on top of a green salad.

If you have a favorite tuna salad recipe, then you can also treat your package salmon like you would a can of tuna.

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4. Salmon spring rolls

Tasty salmon spring rolls are a delicious recipe that happens to be gluten free.

Soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, they’re pan-fried with less oil, while still packing all the flavor of traditional spring rolls.

Rice papers make them easy, and you can even make them ahead for meal prep.

5. Canned salmon pasta

This canned salmon pasta is fresh, light, and takes less than 20 minutes to make.

You’ll only need a handful of everyday ingredients, but there’s so much flavor that kids and adults alike will gobble it up.

When it comes to canned salmon recipes with pasta, it doesn’t get any easier than this!

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6. Salmon loaf

If you’re in need of a retro classic recipe like Grandma used to make, salmon loaf is definitely it.

(It’s sort of like meatloaf and salmon patties had a baby.)

While the name salmon loaf isn’t overly appealing, this is one of those chunk salmon recipes that’s actually delicious and very easy to make.

With just eggs, breadcrumbs, lemon, and onion, you can get this prepped and in the oven in about 10 minutes.

7. Kale salmon caesar salad

As far as canned salmon recipes with pasta go, kale salmon caesar pasta salad is quite healthy, and definitely affordable.

A nice twist on traditional caesar salad, the addition of bowtie pasta, kale, and hard boiled eggs offers a beautiful array of textures and flavor.

Such a fast, filling, and budget-friendly recipe!

Read Next: 27 Healthy Pasta Salad Recipes (you won’t regret eating!)

8. Salmon croquettes

Full of salmon, red peppers, onions, and seasoning, salmon croquettes are a southern classic loved by all.

They’re crispy yet tender, look beautiful on your plate, and be an entree, appetizer, or even a side dish.

Top them with some sriracha sour cream sauce, and get ready for lots of compliments to the ‘chef.’

If you like crab cakes, you’ll definitely love salmon croquettes.

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9. Mediterranean salmon orzo

Mediterranean salmon orzo is one of those pouch or tinned salmon recipes that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Salmon, grape tomatoes, orzo, and olives get tossed in a simple dressing, and is ready in under 10 minutes.

It’s perfect to make ahead and eat for lunch throughout the week, or to serve on a hot summer day.

10. Green salad

This baby spinach salad with salmon, avocado, blueberries, feta, and walnuts is as colorful as it is packed with brain-healthy nutrition.

While you can put salmon on top of greens and call it a salad, this recipe takes it to a whole new beautiful level.

11. Salmon meatballs

Salmon meatballs might just be the best canned salmon recipe on the list.

Capers, dill, and horseradish give the meatballs so much flavor.

Such a fun way to eat salmon!

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12. Eggs benedict with salmon and hollandaise

If you’ve never thought of having salmon for breakfast, you definitely need to try this eggs benedict recipe.

A toasted english muffin topped with a poached egg, hollandaise sauce, and salmon in lieu of the traditional Canadian bacon is all it takes to make this restaurant-quality delicacy.

It’s sure to impress anyone you make it for.

13. Salmon patty

You definitely need this recipe for southern salmon patties in your repertoire.

Just a few affordable and basic ingredients is all that’s needed to make these easy salmon cakes.

A food processor makes it super fast to mix them up, then simply pan fry in a skillet.

Such a quick, inexpensive meal that tastes a little like vacation.

14. Salmon macaroni salad

A fun twist on the traditional tuna version, salmon macaroni salad will please both kids and adults.

It’s perfect for lunch, a picnic, or a cold dinner on a hot day.

With the right amount of seasoning, and the crunch from the onion, this is true comfort food.

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15. Salmon black bean burrito bake

Tex mex food might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but you can’t miss this salmon black bean burrito bake.

Even non-fish eaters will adore this fun and unique recipe.

Corn tortillas keep it gluten free, and the black beans, salsa, and pepper jack or cheddar cheese make it oh-so flavorful.

16. Salmon souffle

This salmon souffle is beautiful, light and airy, and can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

As far as baked canned salmon recipes go, this might just be the most decadent.

Souffles originated in France, and they know what’s good.

17. Salmon dip

This elegant salmon dip makes an excellent cracker spread or topper for toast or bagels.

Dill, green onions, and lemon juice offer so much bright and tangy flavor that everyone will be asking you for the recipe.

Best of all, it’s a quick, 15 minute recipe.

Or try this salmon cream cheese ball for a beautiful presentation at your next party!

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18. Crustless salmon quiche

Crustless salmon quiche is much simpler than traditional quiche, because you don’t need to make a crust.

Similar to a salmon frittata, it’s somehow both light and indulgent.

With a few basic ingredients, you can get it prepped and in the oven in about 10 minutes.

19. Spicy canned salmon rice bowl

How about a high protein and budget-friendly recipe that’s ready in 5 minutes?!

Microwaveable brown rice is the secret to whipping up this quick salmon rice bowl.

Chopped cucumbers add a nice crunch, and a drizzle of sriracha will make it as spicy as you like.

Canned salmon recipes with rice offer a nutritious balance of protein and carbs that will keep you full for hours.

20. Salmon jalapeno poppers

This non-fried version of salmon jalapeno poppers are filled with creamy goodness that everyone will love.

Once you remove the jalapeno seeds, it won’t be very spicy, making it the ideal appetizer or side dish for a crowd.

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21. Lemon dill mediterranean salmon pasta

Mediterranean salmon pasta salad is bright and citrusy, thanks to the lemon dill dressing.

Green beans, lemon zest, and feta make it crunchy and tangy.

This fuss-free meal takes about 25 minutes to make, can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container as leftovers or for easy meal prep.

Read Next: 85+ BEST Pasta Salad Recipes on the Planet

22. Easy canned salmon crostini

This salmon crostini recipe offers 3 different ways to turn canned salmon into a divinely upscale appetizer.

No one at your dinner party will ever guess that they’re eating canned fish!

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23. Healthy canned salmon salad

Tender salmon, crunchy carrots and peppers, tangy capers, and creamy avocado create this healthy version of salmon salad.

You can whip it up in about 10 minutes, and serve it on top of greens, or in a tortilla or lettuce wrap.

24. Quick salmon chowder

If you’re in need of a canned salmon recipe to serve on a cold day, a steaming bowl of this salmon chowder is definitely a great option.

Potatoes, sweet corn, and bacon make this to-die-for soup as delicious as something you’d find in a restaurant on the east coast.

25. Spicy salmon sushi roll-ups

Sushi at home? Yep, it’s possible.

If eating or handling raw fish isn’t your jam, you’ll definitely love these spicy salmon sushi roll-ups.

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26. Salmon deviled eggs

This is one of those simple canned salmon recipes that look and taste downright expensive.

Salmon deviled eggs are easy and cheap to make, but are elegant enough for a holiday or dinner party.

27. Salmon and pea penne pasta salad

Pasta, peas, shredded salmon, and red bell pepper in a creamy dressing is the basis for this divine salmon and pea pasta salad.

It’s colorful comfort food that’s perfect to serve year round!

Bonus recipe: Salmon stuffed avocados

Salmon stuffed avocados make a beautiful presentation, not to mention that you can double down on the healthy fats.

Simply mix up some simple salmon salad and stuff it into a halved avocado for the ultimate heart-health lunch or snack.

27 Deliciously Easy Canned Salmon Recipes (12) Ready to do some cooking with canned salmon?

I hope this list of canned salmon recipes has given you lots of inspiration for using up that can in the back of your pantry.

As you can see, canned fish is extremely versatile, and a healthy, inexpensive way to get some great protein and nutrients.

What are your favorite canned salmon recipes?

FAQ

Is canned salmon cooked? Can you eat canned salmon raw?

Canned salmon is already cooked. Simply drain the liquid and it’s ready to eat. You can decide to discard the skin and bones if you wish, but you won’t even notice the bones once mashed with a fork. They contain lots of extra nutrition, including calcium.

Should you rinse canned salmon?

It is not necessary to rinse canned salmon, but if you plan to heat it up, it’s best to rinse it to remove excess salt. Canned fish does contain high levels of sodium, so if you’re watching your salt intake, you can reduce the sodium by 80% by rinsing.

How to cook canned pink salmon?

You can warm your salmon, or eat it cold or at room temperature. Since it’s already cooked, it really depends on your preference and the dish you’re making. Canned salmon recipes with pasta may require the salmon to be heated, while a salmon wrap or salad is best served chilled.

Is canned salmon just as healthy as fresh fish?

Canned salmon and fresh salmon are equally nutritious. The canning process doesn’t change the nutritional value of fish, so you’ll still receive the same amount of protein and healthy fats.

What is canned salmon used for?

You can use canned salmon in similar ways to how you’d use canned tuna. Canned pink salmon recipes include wraps, sandwiches, burgers, croquettes, pasta dishes, or it can be used to top a green salad or rice bowl for a quick dinner or tasty lunch.

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27 Deliciously Easy Canned Salmon Recipes (13)

27 Deliciously Easy Canned Salmon Recipes

Easy and healthy canned salmon recipes! These quick and easy recipes using canned salmon make quick and easy lunch ideas, a healthy snack, or light dinner.

Ingredients

  • Salmon wraps
  • Salmon burgers
  • Salmon salad sandwich
  • Salmon spring rolls
  • Canned salmon pasta
  • Salmon loaf
  • Kale salmon caesar salad
  • Salmon croquettes
  • Mediterranean salmon orzo
  • Green salad
  • Salmon meatballs
  • Eggs Benedict
  • Salmon patty
  • Salmon macaroni salad
  • Salmon black bean burrito bake
  • Salmon souffle
  • Salmon dip
  • Crustless salon quiche
  • Spicy canned salmon rice bowl
  • Salmon jalapeno poppers
  • Lemon dill mediterranean salmon pasta
  • Easy canned salmon crostini
  • Heathy canned salmon salad
  • Quick salmon chowder
  • Spicy salmon sushi roll-ups
  • Salmon deviled eggs
  • Salmon and pea penne pasta salad
  • Salmon stuffed avocados

Instructions

  1. Choose one or more recipes to make with canned salmon
  2. Gather the ingredients and prepare the meal
  3. Serve and enjoy
27 Deliciously Easy Canned Salmon Recipes (14)

27 Deliciously Easy Canned Salmon Recipes (2024)

FAQs

Should you drain canned salmon? ›

This healthy and convenient food is low in calories, high in omega-3 fatty acids, and contains many essential vitamins and nutrients. Canned salmon also contains high concentrations of sodium, particularly when the fish is packed in salt water. That's why it's recommended that you drain the salmon before eating it.

Is it okay to eat canned salmon every day? ›

How often can I eat canned salmon? While there's no strict daily limit, the FDA recommends that Americans consume two to three servings of fish per week. All types of salmon—pink, chum, coho, Alaskan, and red sockeye—are rich omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit heart health and more.

Which is better red or pink canned salmon? ›

These ones are pretty much the same, but often. red salmon tends to be slightly higher in calories, has more Omega 3 fatty acids than the pink. In terms of protein, even a little more protein. So up to you what you like in terms of eating, uh, and taste.

Do you have to cook canned salmon before you eat it? ›

protein, B vitamins (niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, and B6), vitamin E, iron, zinc, and magnesium. without cooking. If heated, serve right away or refrigerate leftovers in a container that is not made from metal. quick and healthy lunch, use canned salmon to make a sandwich or add to a salad.

Which is healthier canned tuna or canned salmon? ›

Overall, salmon offers higher levels of brain-boosting omega-3 fats, and much higher levels of bone-strengthening calcium. While tuna contains less of these, it's still a good source of omega-3 fats and an excellent source of hunger-busting protein.

What is the white stuff in canned salmon? ›

That white slimy stuff is called albumin, and it's actually just a harmless (albeit pretty gross-looking) protein that solidifies as salmon cooks.

Should you eat the bones in canned salmon? ›

Eating the bones in canned salmon isn't just a matter of safety; it's also about nutrition. Salmon bones are a fantastic source of calcium, which, according to Healthline, is a mineral crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth and ensuring the proper functioning of the heart, muscles, and nerves.

How many cans of salmon can you eat a week? ›

It's generally safe for all population groups, including pregnant women, to consume 2-3 serves of any type of tuna or salmon a week, canned or fresh. Canned tuna usually has lower mercury levels than other tuna because tuna used for canning are smaller species that are caught when less than 1 year old.

Is canned salmon anti-inflammatory? ›

Meats, soups, fruits or vegetables, the canned variety offers many benefits. You'll still get the inflammation-fighting omega 3 fatty acids in canned salmon, sardines and tuna.

Is there a lot of mercury in canned salmon? ›

Canned salmon has an average mercury load of 0.014 ppm and can reach measurements up to 0.086 ppm. For fresh/frozen salmon, the average mercury load is 0.022 ppm with max concentrations of 0.19 ppm. Oysters have an average amount of just 0.012 ppm, with the highest measurement of 0.25 ppm.

Which is better canned sardines or canned salmon? ›

Sardines are an exceptional source, with a 3.5-ounce serving providing over 2,000 milligrams of omega-3s. In comparison, the same serving of salmon offers about 1,500 milligrams. While both fish are excellent sources, sardines lead in omega-3 content, offering more bang per bite (National Institutes of Health).

How to serve canned salmon? ›

Straight Out of the Can! Just open the can, maybe squeeze on some lemon, and fork on! There is simply not an easier, better protein source than canned Alaska salmon. Finely chop celery, add salmon, whether Redhead (sockeye) or Thinkpink (pink) salmon, squeeze on lemon and put on a dollop of cocktail sauce.

Which is the healthiest canned fish? ›

Sardines. Sardines are a favorite among dietitians for many reasons: They are high in protein, nutrient-dense and low in mercury. In fact, sardines came in as the healthiest fish, according to registered dietitian and TODAY.com contributor Samantha Cassetty.

Can I eat canned salmon right out of the can? ›

Canned salmon is already cooked - just drain the liquid and it's ready to eat or add to your favourite dish. You can remove the skin if you like. Don't throw out the soft, calcium-rich bones! Mash them with a fork and you won't even notice them.

Should you eat the skin and bones in canned salmon? ›

Frequently Asked Questions. Why are there skin & bones in my can of salmon? Skin & bones are left in because there is no waste in canned salmon – the liquid, skin, and bones are all edible and supply important nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus.

How do you get the fishy taste out of canned salmon? ›

Lots of fresh lemon juice and dill cuts the fishiness sooo much. I strain the salmon well, squeeze lemon juice into the can with salmon, let soak, then strain again. Then construct as above… with plenty of lemon juice, salt and pepper. Salmon patties like this are great as an inexpensive protein for Caesar salads.

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