Salmon Loaf

Salmon Loaf Recipe from USA | Ingredients: salmon, bread crumbs, black olives, onion, milk, eggs, parsley, lemon juice, dill weed, pepper

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Salmon loaf is a classic dish that is both delicious and easy to make. This recipe combines the rich flavor of Alaska salmon with bread crumbs, olives, onions, and a variety of seasonings to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Salmon loaf has been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a sandwich filling. The combination of salmon and bread crumbs creates a moist and flavorful loaf that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 can of Alaska salmon
2 cups of soft bread crumbs
0.67 cups of sliced, pitted black olives
0.33 cups of finely chopped onion
0.5 cups of milk
2 eggs
2 tbsp of minced fresh parsley
1 tbsp of lemon juice
0.5 tsp of dill weed
a dash of pepper

How to prepare

Drain the salmon.
Reserve 2 tbsp of the liquid.
Return the reserved liquid to the salmon.
Add the remaining ingredients.
Place the mixture in a greased loaf pan.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute canned tuna for the salmon for a different twist on this classic dish.
Top the loaf with a creamy dill sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the salmon well before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the loaf from becoming too wet.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic, thyme, or paprika.

- For a crispy crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the salmon loaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the salmon loaf in a loaf pan ensures that it cooks evenly and retains its shape. Be sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf – if it comes out clean, the loaf is ready.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned salmon, you can use cooked fresh salmon or canned tuna as a substitute. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs if you have a wheat allergy or intolerance.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salmon loaf mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you want to have a meal ready to go.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salmon loaf with fresh parsley or lemon slices for a pop of color and flavor. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Pairing Recommendations

Salmon loaf pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. You can also serve it with a light beer or a glass of sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the slices of salmon loaf in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of salmon loaf contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

This salmon loaf recipe contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of salmon loaf contains about 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

This dish is a good source of protein, with each serving containing around 15 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and selenium, all of which are important for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish, eggs, and wheat (from the bread crumbs), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Salmon loaf is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is a great option for a balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Summary

Salmon loaf is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a rainy afternoon in the spring of 1965, and I had been invited to a potluck dinner at my friend Margaret's house. As I walked through the door, the aroma of freshly baked bread and roasted salmon filled the air. I followed my nose to the kitchen, where Margaret was busy pulling a golden-brown loaf out of the oven.

"Come try some of my salmon loaf, Mary," Margaret said with a smile. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

I took a bite of the moist, flavorful fish and was instantly transported back to my childhood. My grandmother used to make a similar dish when I was a little girl, and the memories flooded back to me like a tidal wave. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this salmon loaf for myself.

Over the next few weeks, I begged Margaret to share her family recipe with me. Finally, after much persistence on my part, she relented and invited me over to her house for a cooking lesson. As we gathered the ingredients and prepped the salmon, Margaret regaled me with tales of her own grandmother, who had brought the recipe with her from the old country.

"She used to say that the key to a perfect salmon loaf is to use the freshest ingredients and to season it just right," Margaret explained as we mixed together the salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and herbs.

As we popped the loaf into the oven, Margaret poured us each a glass of wine and we sat down to chat. She told me stories of her family's culinary traditions, of how her grandmother used to make this salmon loaf for special occasions and family gatherings. I listened intently, soaking up every detail like a sponge.

When the timer finally went off, we eagerly pulled the salmon loaf out of the oven. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to dig in. Margaret sliced off a piece for each of us, and we savored every bite in silence.

As I drove home that evening, the rain pounding against my windshield, I couldn't stop thinking about the salmon loaf. I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe, one that would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the following months, I perfected the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I added a touch of lemon zest for brightness, a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth, and a sprinkle of fresh dill for freshness. Each time I made the salmon loaf, it brought me joy and comfort, reminding me of my grandmother and the traditions she had passed down to me.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing the salmon loaf for my own family, I can't help but feel grateful for Margaret and her willingness to share her family recipe with me. I think about all the people who have come before me, each one adding their own twist to this timeless dish. And I feel connected to them in a way that is both comforting and profound.

As I take the salmon loaf out of the oven and set it on the table, I know that I am carrying on a tradition that spans generations. And as my family gathers around to enjoy this simple yet delicious dish, I can't help but smile, knowing that I am passing on a piece of my own culinary heritage to the next generation.