Canned salmon is a versatile and healthy protein that can be prepared in a variety of quick and easy ways. Whether you want to cook it on the stovetop, in the microwave, or use it in recipes after heating, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
1. How To Cook Canned Salmon on Stove
Ingredients
- 1 can (5-7.5 oz) canned salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- Small nonstick skillet
- Spatula
Instructions
Drain the liquid from the canned salmon into a bowl. Flake the salmon with a fork, removing any bones or skin.
Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter.
Once hot, add the flaked salmon. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Season with salt and pepper as desired.
Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges, fresh dill, or cracked black pepper.
Tips
- Add minced garlic, diced onion, or greens like spinach or kale when cooking for extra flavor.
- Salmon may exude liquid as it cooks – drain excess liquid before serving if needed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days.
2. How To Cook Canned Salmon in Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 can (5-7.5 oz) canned salmon, drained and flaked
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Microwave
Instructions
Drain liquid from canned salmon into a bowl. Flake salmon with a fork, removing any bones or skin.
Place flaked salmon in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave on HIGH for 60-90 seconds until heated through. Salmon should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Season with salt and pepper as desired.
Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges, fresh dill, or cracked black pepper.
Tips
- Stir salmon halfway through microwaving time to ensure even heating.
- Add a splash of milk or water to the salmon before microwaving for extra moisture.
3. What To Do With Heated Canned Salmon?
Once you’ve cooked your canned salmon by either stovetop or microwave methods, there are many delicious ways to use it. Here are some quick and nutritious options:
Salmon Salad – Flake into a bowl, add mayo, chopped celery, onion, parsley. Season and serve over greens, in a sandwich or wrap, or stuffed into tomatoes or avocado halves.
Salmon Cakes – Mix cooked salmon with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Form into patties and pan fry until golden brown.
Salmon Tacos – Flake salmon and mix with salsa, diced onions, cilantro, lime juice. Serve in warmed tortillas or taco shells.
Salmon Scramble – Add flaked salmon to whisked eggs. Scramble and cook over medium heat. Serve with toast or over greens.
Salmon Pasta – Toss flaked salmon with hot pasta, olive oil or pesto sauce, lemon juice, capers, and parsley.
Salmon Frittata or Quiche – Add salmon to egg mixture with veggies and cheese, then bake.
Salmon Spread – Blend or mix salmon with cream cheese, herbs, lemon juice, and pepper. Spread onto crackers, bread, or sandwiches.
With so many easy options, canned salmon can be transformed into quick meals, snacks, salads, and more! It’s the perfect pantry staple to have on hand for nutritious seafood any night of the week.
