Got leftover salmon? Don’t let it go to waste!

Salmon is a versatile fish that can be transformed into many tasty dishes. You can use your leftover salmon to create new meals that are just as delicious as the original.

From salads to sandwiches, there are plenty of ways to use up your extra salmon.

These recipes are quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights. They’ll help you save money and reduce food waste while enjoying yummy meals.

1. Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

You can turn leftover salmon into a tasty new dish with a zesty lemon butter sauce.

Start by reheating your salmon on the grill for a few minutes to warm it through. While it’s heating, make a quick sauce by melting butter in a pan.

Add some minced garlic and lemon juice. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds.

Pour the warm lemon butter sauce over your reheated salmon. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.

This simple recipe gives new life to your leftover salmon. The bright citrus and rich butter complement the fish perfectly. It’s an easy way to enjoy your salmon again.

2. Salmon Quiche with Spinach

Salmon quiche with spinach is a tasty way to use leftover salmon.

Start by lining a pie dish with pastry crust. Mix eggs, cream, and milk in a bowl.

Add flaked salmon, cooked spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese to the egg mixture. Stir in some dill, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.

Pour the filling into the crust. Bake the quiche in a preheated oven for about 50 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the center set.

Let the quiche cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm for a filling meal. You can enjoy this quiche for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

3. Salmon and Sweet Potato Cakes

Salmon and sweet potato cakes are a tasty way to use leftover salmon.

Mix flaked salmon with mashed sweet potatoes, herbs, and spices. Add breadcrumbs and an egg to help bind the mixture.

Form small patties and pan-fry until golden brown. These cakes are quick to make – you can have them ready in about 15 minutes.

They’re packed with flavor and nutrition from the salmon and sweet potatoes. Serve your salmon and sweet potato cakes as a main dish or appetizer. Try them with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a satisfying meal.

4. Creamy Salmon Pasta Bake

Creamy salmon pasta bake is a tasty way to use leftover salmon.

Start by cooking pasta until it’s al dente. Mix the pasta with chunks of cooked salmon in a casserole dish.

Make a creamy sauce using heavy cream, chicken broth, and pesto. Pour this over the pasta and salmon. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.

Top the dish with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings. You can add spinach or other veggies to boost the nutritional value.

5. Salmon and Asparagus Frittata

Want a tasty way to use up leftover salmon? Try making a salmon and asparagus frittata.

This quick and easy dish combines flaky salmon with fresh asparagus and eggs. To make it, sauté asparagus in a skillet.

Add your leftover salmon and pour in beaten eggs mixed with cheese. Cook on the stovetop until the edges set.

Finish the frittata in the oven for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked. The result is a protein-packed meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

You can customize your frittata with other veggies or cheeses you have on hand. Serve it warm or cold – it keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

6. Salmon Teriyaki Stir Fry

Salmon teriyaki stir fry is a quick and tasty way to use up leftover salmon.

You’ll need some veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and asparagus. Start by cutting your salmon into bite-sized cubes.

Mix up a simple teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and spices. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok.

Toss in your veggies and cook until they’re crisp-tender. Add the salmon and pour in the teriyaki sauce.

Stir everything together and cook for a few more minutes. The sauce will thicken and coat the salmon and veggies.

Serve your stir fry over rice or noodles for a filling meal. It’s ready in about 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

7. Salmon Chowder with Corn

Salmon chowder with corn is a tasty way to use leftover salmon.

You’ll need potatoes, onions, celery, and corn as the base vegetables. Start by sautéing the veggies in butter.

Add flour to thicken, then slowly whisk in broth and milk. Simmer until the potatoes are tender.

Flake your leftover salmon and add it to the pot along with some cream. Stir in frozen or canned corn for extra sweetness and texture.

Season with dill, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the chowder simmer for a few more minutes to heat through. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.

8. Spicy Salmon and Avocado Salad

This zesty salad puts your leftover salmon to good use. Start by flaking the salmon into bite-sized pieces.

Mix it with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Add some chopped cilantro for extra flavor.

For the dressing, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, and a dash of hot sauce. Toss the salad with the dressing and season with salt and pepper to taste.

You can serve this refreshing salad on a bed of mixed greens or enjoy it on its own. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

9. Salmon Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Salmon tacos are a tasty way to use leftover salmon. Start by flaking the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces.

Warm up some tortillas and fill them with the salmon. Top with a quick cabbage slaw for crunch and flavor.

To make the slaw, mix shredded cabbage with mayo, lime juice, and salt. You can add red cabbage for extra color.

Sprinkle some spices on the salmon for more taste. Try chili powder, cumin, or garlic powder.

Add your favorite taco toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime. These tacos are easy to make and full of flavor.

10. Baked Salmon and Zucchini Casserole

This dish turns leftover salmon into a tasty meal.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Cut zucchini into thin slices. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Add your leftover salmon chunks on top. Mix lemon juice, garlic, and herbs in a small bowl.

Pour this mixture over the salmon and zucchini. Bake for about 15 minutes until the zucchini is tender.

The salmon will warm through and soak up the flavors. This casserole is quick and easy. It’s perfect for a light dinner or lunch. You can add other veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra variety.

11. Salmon and Mushroom Risotto

Salmon and mushroom risotto is a tasty way to use leftover salmon.

Start by sautéing chopped mushrooms in butter. Add Arborio rice and cook until lightly toasted.

Gradually stir in warm broth, letting the rice absorb it before adding more. When the rice is creamy and al dente, mix in flaked leftover salmon and grated Parmesan cheese.

Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This creamy, savory dish combines the richness of salmon with the earthiness of mushrooms for a satisfying meal.

12. Salmon Wellington with Spinach

Salmon Wellington is a fancy way to use leftover salmon. You’ll need puff pastry, spinach, and some seasonings.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface.

Season your leftover salmon with salt, pepper, and dill. Place it in the center of the pastry.

Cook spinach with garlic and onion in a pan. Spread this mixture over the salmon.

Carefully wrap the pastry around the salmon and spinach. Brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.

13. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagels

Got leftover salmon? Turn it into a tasty bagel topping. Start with a toasted bagel of your choice.

Mix cream cheese with lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Spread this on your bagel.

Top with thin slices of your leftover salmon. Add some sliced cucumber or red onion for crunch.

For extra flavor, sprinkle capers or a dash of everything bagel seasoning on top. This quick meal works great for breakfast or lunch.

You can also make it into a dip. Mix the salmon and cream cheese, serve with bagel chips. It’s perfect for snacking or parties.

14. Leftover Salmon Fried Rice

Leftover salmon fried rice is a tasty way to use up extra salmon and rice. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes with just one pan.

Start by heating oil in a large skillet or wok. Add diced vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger for flavor. Push the veggies to the side and scramble some eggs in the pan.

Mix in your leftover rice and salmon chunks. Add frozen peas for color and nutrition.

Season the fried rice with soy sauce to taste. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top before serving. This quick meal transforms your leftovers into a delicious new dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon

Salmon packs a powerful nutritional punch. It offers many health benefits that make it a smart choice to include in your meals.

Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are important for your heart and brain health.

Eating salmon can help lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. Omega-3s may also reduce inflammation in your body.

This can ease joint pain and stiffness. Some studies suggest omega-3s might help with depression too.

Your body can’t make omega-3s on its own. You need to get them from food. Salmon gives you a big boost of these essential fats.

High Protein Content

Salmon is an excellent source of protein. A 3-ounce serving has about 22 grams of protein.

This makes it great for building and repairing muscles. Protein also helps you feel full and satisfied after meals.

This can be helpful if you’re trying to manage your weight. The protein in salmon is easy for your body to use.

Salmon contains all nine essential amino acids. These are the building blocks of protein that your body needs but can’t make on its own. This makes salmon a “complete” protein source.

Tips for Using Leftover Salmon

Leftover salmon can be a versatile ingredient when stored and prepared properly. With the right techniques, you can enjoy delicious meals while reducing food waste.

Proper Storage Techniques

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. Use it within 3-4 days for best quality and safety. If you won’t eat it soon, freeze it instead.

To freeze salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place wrapped pieces in a freezer bag and remove excess air. Label the bag with the date.

Frozen salmon stays good for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before using. Don’t refreeze thawed salmon.

Best Cooking Methods

Reheat leftover salmon gently to avoid drying it out.

Microwave on 50% power in short bursts, checking often. Or warm it in a 275°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Try adding leftover salmon to salads, pasta dishes, or grain bowls.

It’s great in cold preparations like salmon salad sandwiches.

Make salmon cakes by mixing flaked fish with breadcrumbs, egg, and herbs.

Pan-fry until golden brown.

Add salmon to creamy dips, quiches, or frittatas for tasty appetizers and brunches.

The options are endless with this versatile protein!