Leftover salmon can be a great starting point for many tasty meals. With some creativity, you can turn yesterday’s dinner into today’s new favorite dish.

These recipes give you lots of options to use up extra cooked salmon.

You’ll find ideas here for quick lunches, easy dinners, and even appetizers using leftover salmon.

The recipes range from simple sandwiches to more complex dishes. They work with both hot and cold leftover salmon.

You can try new flavors or stick with classic combinations your family loves.

1. Salmon Fried Rice

Salmon fried rice is a tasty way to use up leftover salmon and rice. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes with just a few ingredients.

Start by heating oil in a pan. Add diced onions, carrots, and peas. Cook until soft.

Push the veggies to one side and add beaten eggs to the empty space. Scramble them.

Mix in your cold leftover rice and flaked salmon. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.

This meal works great for lunch or dinner. You can store leftovers in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove when ready to eat again.

2. Salmon Potato Cakes

Salmon potato cakes are a tasty way to use leftover salmon. Mix flaked salmon with mashed potatoes, onions, and seasonings. Form the mixture into patties.

Coat the patties in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness. Fry them in a pan until golden brown on both sides.

You can make these ahead of time and refrigerate before cooking. Serve the cakes with a simple salad or vegetables for a complete meal.

For a gluten-free option, skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative. You can also make mini patties to serve as appetizers or salad toppings.

3. Salmon and Egg Breakfast Muffins

Salmon and egg breakfast muffins are a tasty way to use leftover salmon. They’re quick to make and perfect for busy mornings.

To prepare, mix eggs with flaked salmon, diced vegetables, and seasonings. Pour the mixture into muffin tins and bake until set.

These muffins are packed with protein and nutrients. You can add cheese, herbs, or spices to change up the flavor.

Make a batch ahead of time and reheat them for easy breakfasts all week. Store them in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze for longer.

4. Salmon Tacos with Avocado

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

Warm up some tortillas and fill them with the salmon. Top with sliced avocado or make a quick avocado crema by blending avocado with sour cream and lime juice.

Add your favorite taco toppings like shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, or cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice brings out the flavors.

These tacos are quick to make and perfect for lunch or a light dinner. They’re a fun twist on traditional fish tacos that your family will love.

5. Salmon and Spinach Quiche

Salmon and spinach quiche is a tasty way to use your leftover salmon. This dish combines flaky pastry, creamy eggs, and savory salmon.

To make it, mix eggs, cream, and cheese in a bowl. Add cooked spinach and flaked salmon. Pour the mixture into a pre-baked crust.

Bake the quiche until it’s set and golden. You can serve it hot or cold. It’s great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

This quiche is versatile. You can use fresh, canned, or smoked salmon. Add other veggies or herbs to suit your taste.

For a healthier option, try a crustless version. It’s quick to make and gluten-free.

6. Salmon Chowder

Salmon chowder is a tasty way to use your leftover salmon. Start by sautéing onions and celery in a large pot. Add flour, salt, and pepper to create a base.

Pour in fish stock or clam juice and add diced potatoes. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. Stir in milk or cream for richness.

Flake your leftover salmon and add it to the pot. Heat through, but don’t overcook. Season with dill or parsley for extra flavor.

Serve your salmon chowder hot with crusty bread. It’s a comforting meal perfect for cold days.

7. Salmon and Broccoli Stir Fry

Turn your leftover salmon into a quick and tasty stir fry. Start by heating oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add minced garlic and stir for about 20 seconds.

Toss in chopped broccoli and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns bright green.

Next, add your leftover salmon chunks and any other veggies you like, such as red peppers or onions.

Pour in a simple sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey. Stir fry everything together for another 1-2 minutes until the salmon is heated through and starting to flake.

Serve your salmon and broccoli stir fry over rice or noodles for a filling meal. This dish comes together in about 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

8. Salmon Alfredo Pasta

Salmon Alfredo pasta is a tasty way to use up leftover salmon. You can make a creamy sauce with butter, garlic, and heavy cream. Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Cook your pasta of choice until al dente. Flake the leftover salmon into bite-sized pieces. Toss the pasta with the Alfredo sauce and gently mix in the salmon.

For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream. You can also add vegetables like peas or spinach. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

9. Salmon Pizza with Capers

Salmon pizza with capers is a tasty way to use leftover salmon. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on a pre-baked pizza crust.

Top the pizza with flaked leftover salmon, capers, and thinly sliced red onions. Add some cherry tomatoes cut in half for extra flavor. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over everything.

Bake the pizza for 6-8 minutes until the cheese melts. Once done, add some fresh rocket leaves and basil. You can drizzle a bit of lemon juice for a zesty touch.

This pizza combines rich salmon with tangy capers and fresh greens. It’s a quick meal that transforms your leftover salmon into something new and delicious.

10. Salmon Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

Turn your leftover salmon into a fresh and zesty salad. Start with a bed of mixed greens and top it with flaked salmon pieces.

Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for crunch and flavor. Toss in some orange segments to complement the salmon.

Make a simple citrus vinaigrette using lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey. Drizzle it over your salad just before serving.

For extra texture, sprinkle some toasted almonds or pecans on top. This quick and easy meal is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

11. Salmon and Bean Burritos

Salmon and bean burritos are a tasty way to use leftover salmon. Mix flaked salmon with black beans, rice, and salsa. Wrap the mixture in a tortilla with cheese and veggies.

You can add diced tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado for extra flavor and nutrition. Warm the burrito in a skillet or oven before serving.

This meal is quick to make and provides protein from both the salmon and beans. It’s a filling option for lunch or dinner that puts a new spin on your leftover fish.

12. Salmon Curry

Salmon curry is a tasty way to use your leftover salmon. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan. Add curry powder and turmeric for flavor.

Pour in coconut milk and let it simmer. Gently add your leftover salmon pieces to the curry sauce. Cook until the salmon is heated through.

Stir in some spinach leaves for extra nutrients. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the curry before serving. Enjoy your salmon curry over rice or with naan bread for a filling meal.

13. Salmon Pesto Sandwich

Got leftover salmon? Try making a tasty salmon pesto sandwich. Mix flaked salmon with pesto, diced onion, and chopped tomatoes. Add a bit of mayo for creaminess.

Spread the mixture on focaccia or ciabatta bread. For extra flavor, rub the bread with garlic before assembling. You can also add fresh greens like arugula or spinach.

This sandwich works great cold, but you can toast it too. It’s a quick and easy way to use up salmon while creating a whole new meal. The bright pesto flavors complement the rich salmon perfectly.

14. Salmon and Veggie Skewers

Salmon and veggie skewers are a fun way to use leftover salmon. Cut your cooked salmon into bite-sized chunks. Thread them onto skewers with colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.

Brush the skewers with a tasty marinade made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. Grill or broil them for just a few minutes until the veggies are tender and lightly charred.

These skewers make a quick and healthy meal. You can serve them over rice or with a side salad for a complete dinner. They’re also great for summer barbecues or casual gatherings with friends.

15. Salmon-Stuffed Bell Peppers

You can turn leftover salmon into a tasty meal with stuffed bell peppers. Start by cutting bell peppers in half and removing the seeds.

Mix flaked salmon with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and herbs like basil and oregano. Fill the pepper halves with this mixture.

Sprinkle some cheese on top if you like. Bake the stuffed peppers at 375°F for about 20 minutes until heated through.

This dish is easy to customize. You can add other vegetables or swap the rice for quinoa. It’s a great way to use up extra salmon and create a filling meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is packed with important nutrients that support your health. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs.

Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain. These healthy fats may help reduce inflammation in your body.

This fish is rich in B vitamins, especially B12, which helps make DNA and keeps your blood and nerve cells working properly. Salmon also provides vitamin D, important for strong bones and a healthy immune system.

Some key minerals found in salmon include:

• Selenium
• Potassium
• Phosphorus

These minerals play important roles in your body’s functions, from thyroid health to muscle contractions.

Salmon is low in saturated fat and calories compared to many other protein sources. A 3-ounce serving typically has around 150-200 calories, making it a good choice for weight management.

The antioxidants in salmon, like astaxanthin, may protect your cells from damage. This could potentially lower your risk of certain diseases.

By including salmon in your meals, you’re giving your body many essential nutrients. It’s a versatile food that can be a healthy addition to your diet.

Storage Tips for Leftover Salmon

Proper storage keeps leftover salmon fresh and safe to eat. Follow these guidelines to make the most of your extra fish.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Cool cooked salmon to room temperature before storing. Put it in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

Store salmon in the coldest part of your fridge, usually the back. Keep it away from raw meats to avoid cross-contamination.

Eat refrigerated salmon within 3-4 days. Check for any odd smells or slimy texture before eating. If in doubt, throw it out.

Freezing Methods

Freezing extends salmon’s shelf life up to 3 months. Wrap cooled salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Label the package with the date. For best quality, use within 2-3 months.

Thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw at room temperature. Use thawed salmon within 24 hours and don’t refreeze.

For easy portioning, freeze salmon in individual servings. This lets you thaw only what you need.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Salmon

Leftover salmon can be transformed into tasty new meals. Try these ideas for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to give your salmon a second life.

Breakfast Ideas

Turn salmon into a morning treat with these quick recipes.

Mix flaked salmon into scrambled eggs for a protein-packed start. Or try salmon hash – fry diced potatoes and onions, then add salmon chunks near the end.

For a grab-and-go option, make salmon and cream cheese bagels.

Salmon quiche is another great choice. Use a pre-made crust and mix salmon with eggs, cheese, and veggies. Bake until set.

You can also add salmon to frittatas or breakfast burritos for a filling meal.

Lunch and Dinner Suggestions

Salmon salad is an easy lunch. Mix flaked fish with mayo, celery, and lemon juice. Serve on bread or over greens.

For a hot meal, try salmon cakes. Combine the fish with breadcrumbs, egg, and spices. Form into patties and pan-fry until crispy.

Pasta dishes work well too. Toss salmon chunks with cooked noodles, cream sauce, and peas.

Or make a quick salmon alfredo. For a lighter option, add salmon to a stir-fry with veggies.

You can also use it in tacos, quesadillas, or on top of pizza for fun dinners.