Salmon Loaf Recipe: A Flavorful and Healthy Meal
This recipe for salmon loaf is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meatloaf. It's packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for the whole family. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and can be customized to your liking with various herbs and spices. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a convenient choice for a weeknight dinner.
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and deboned. (You can use canned salmon, but fresh salmon will give you a more vibrant flavor.)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs recommended for a crispier texture.
- 1/4 cup milk (or you can substitute with plain yogurt for a tangier flavor)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill. (Parsley or chives are great substitutes)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
- 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create a moist and flavorful salmon loaf.
Preparing the Salmon:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches). This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the loaf.
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Flake the cooked salmon: If using fresh salmon, bake or poach it until it's cooked through but still moist. Allow it to cool slightly, then flake it with a fork. If using canned salmon, simply drain it well.
Combining the Ingredients:
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In a large bowl, gently combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, dill, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing as this can result in a tough loaf.
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Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
Baking the Salmon Loaf:
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the salmon loaf is cooked through and lightly browned on top. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
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Rest and Serve: Let the salmon loaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful loaf.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving your salmon loaf with:
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or carrots are all excellent choices.
- A fresh salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon loaf.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting and satisfying side dish.
- Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors of the salmon loaf.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
This salmon loaf recipe is a healthy and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations and tag us! #SalmonLoaf #HealthyRecipe #EasyDinner #SeafoodRecipe
