Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy and delicious meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This old-fashioned salmon loaf recipe is a comforting classic that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked salmon, or you can easily cook some fresh fillets specifically for this recipe. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor with this moist and flavorful loaf, a true testament to the magic of simple, homemade cooking.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe utilizes pantry staples and readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a quick dinner idea.
- 2 lbs cooked salmon, flaked (about 4-6 fillets)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Delicious Salmon Loaf
Follow these easy steps to create a mouthwatering salmon loaf that will impress your family and friends.
Step 1: Preparing the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using fresh salmon, bake or pan-fry until cooked through and flake it gently.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; don't overmix, as this can make the loaf tough.
Step 3: Shaping the Loaf
Grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches) with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the salmon mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a neat loaf.
Step 4: Baking the Loaf
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the loaf is heated through and lightly browned on top. If you want a crispier top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serving Your Masterpiece
Let the salmon loaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. It’s delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or your favorite creamy sauce.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Salmon Loaf
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the salmon mixture can result in a tough loaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use fresh herbs: For an even more vibrant flavor, substitute fresh dill for the dried dill. Use about 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill.
- Add some zest: A little lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note to the loaf.
- Customize your spices: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as parsley, thyme, or paprika.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Classic
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas to customize your salmon loaf:
- Creamy Salmon Loaf: Add 1/4 cup of sour cream or mayonnaise to the mixture for extra richness and moisture.
- Spicy Salmon Loaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Salmon Loaf: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese over the top of the loaf before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This old-fashioned salmon loaf recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!