Salmon sandwiches are a popular choice for lunch or dinner, and for good reason. They’re packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and a delicious flavor that’s hard to resist. While fresh salmon can be expensive and difficult to work with, canned salmon is a convenient and affordable alternative that can be just as tasty. In this article, we’ll show you how to make mouth-watering salmon sandwiches from canned salmon that will impress your family and friends.
Choosing the Right Canned Salmon
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to choose the right canned salmon. Not all canned salmon is created equal, and some types are better suited for sandwiches than others. Here are a few things to look for when selecting canned salmon:
Look for Wild-Caught Salmon
Wild-caught salmon is generally considered to be of higher quality than farmed salmon. It has a more robust flavor and a firmer texture that holds up well to mixing and shaping.
Check the Liquid
Canned salmon can be packed in water, oil, or broth. For sandwiches, it’s best to choose salmon packed in water or a low-sodium broth. This will help to keep the salmon moist without adding excess fat or salt.
Opt for Boneless and Skinless Salmon
Boneless and skinless salmon is easier to work with and has a more uniform texture. It’s also less likely to have any bones or skin that can be a nuisance when making sandwiches.
Preparing the Canned Salmon
Now that we’ve chosen the right canned salmon, it’s time to prepare it for our sandwiches. Here’s how:
Drain and Flake the Salmon
Start by draining the liquid from the canned salmon and flaking it into a medium-sized bowl. Be gentle when flaking the salmon, as you want to avoid breaking it up too much.
Remove Any Bones or Skin
Although we opted for boneless and skinless salmon, it’s still possible to find a few stray bones or pieces of skin. Remove any that you find to ensure that your sandwiches are smooth and even.
Chop the Onion and Celery
Finely chop a small onion and a stalk of celery. These will add a punch of flavor and texture to our salmon mixture.
Mixing the Salmon Mixture
Now it’s time to mix our salmon mixture. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned salmon | 1 (14.75 oz) can |
| Chopped onion | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped celery | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Chopped fresh dill | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Mixing the Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked salmon, chopped onion, chopped celery, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salmon mixture dense and heavy.
Shaping the Salmon Patties
Now that we have our salmon mixture, it’s time to shape it into patties. Here’s how:
Divide the Mixture
Divide the salmon mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on how large you want your sandwiches to be.
Shape the Patties
Shape each portion into a round patty. Make sure the edges are smooth and the patty is evenly thick.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Now that we have our salmon patties, it’s time to assemble our sandwiches. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4-6 salmon patties
- 4-6 hamburger buns or sandwich bread
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Cheese (optional)
- Tartar sauce or mayonnaise (optional)
Assembling the Sandwiches
To assemble the sandwiches, simply place a salmon patty on each bun or slice of bread. Add lettuce, tomato, cheese, and tartar sauce or mayonnaise, if desired.
Cooking the Salmon Patties
While our salmon patties are delicious straight from the fridge, they’re even better when cooked. Here’s how:
Pan-Frying the Patties
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to the pan. When the oil is hot, add the salmon patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Grilling the Patties
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the salmon patties on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Serving and Enjoying
Now that our salmon sandwiches are cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Here are a few ideas for sides and toppings:
Sides
- Coleslaw
- French fries
- Salad
- Grilled vegetables
Toppings
- Tartar sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Cheese
- Bacon
By following these simple steps, you can create delicious salmon sandwiches from canned salmon that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner, these sandwiches are sure to hit the spot. So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a can of salmon and give this recipe a try!
What is the best type of canned salmon to use for salmon sandwiches?
The best type of canned salmon to use for salmon sandwiches is one that is high in quality and has a good balance of flavor and texture. Look for canned salmon that is labeled as “wild-caught” or “Alaskan” as these tend to have a better flavor and texture than farmed salmon. You can also choose canned salmon that is packed in water or olive oil, as these tend to be lower in added salt and preservatives.
When selecting canned salmon, make sure to check the ingredient list and nutrition label to ensure that it meets your dietary needs and preferences. Some canned salmon may contain added salt, preservatives, or other ingredients that you may want to avoid. By choosing a high-quality canned salmon, you can ensure that your salmon sandwiches are not only delicious but also healthy and sustainable.
How do I drain and flake the canned salmon?
To drain and flake the canned salmon, start by opening the can and pouring off any liquid that has accumulated at the top. You can use a fork to gently break up any large chunks of salmon and then use a paper towel or clean cloth to pat the salmon dry and remove any excess moisture. Next, use a fork to flake the salmon into small pieces, taking care not to break up the fish too much.
It’s also a good idea to remove any bones or skin that may be present in the canned salmon. You can do this by gently picking out any visible bones or skin with your fingers or a fork. By draining and flaking the canned salmon, you can help to remove any excess moisture and create a better texture for your salmon sandwiches.
What are some common ingredients to add to salmon salad?
Some common ingredients to add to salmon salad include mayonnaise, chopped onions, diced celery, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives to give the salad a bright and fresh flavor. Other ingredients you might consider adding include capers, chopped bell peppers, or grated carrot.
When adding ingredients to your salmon salad, be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning and ingredients to your liking. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find the flavor and texture that you enjoy the most. Some people like to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of paprika to give the salad a bit of extra flavor.
How do I assemble the salmon sandwiches?
To assemble the salmon sandwiches, start by spreading a layer of salmon salad on one slice of bread. You can use a butter knife or spoon to spread the salad evenly and make sure to leave a small border around the edges of the bread. Next, add any additional toppings you like, such as lettuce, tomato, or cheese.
Once you’ve added your toppings, place the second slice of bread on top of the salmon salad to complete the sandwich. You can cut the sandwich in half or into quarters, depending on your preference. You can also serve the salmon sandwiches on a plate or wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for a quick and easy lunch on the go.
What are some tips for making the perfect salmon sandwich?
One tip for making the perfect salmon sandwich is to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh bread and crisp lettuce. You can also try toasting the bread before assembling the sandwich to give it a crispy texture and a bit of extra flavor. Another tip is to not overmix the salmon salad, as this can make it tough and dense.
By following these tips and using a bit of creativity and experimentation, you can create a salmon sandwich that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Consider adding some sliced cucumbers or sprouts to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture, or using a flavored mayonnaise or spread to give the sandwich a bit of extra zing.
Can I make salmon sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make salmon sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. You can prepare the salmon salad and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day, but it’s best to wait until just before serving to assemble the sandwiches. This will help to prevent the bread from getting soggy and the salad from becoming too wet.
If you need to make the sandwiches ahead of time, consider assembling them without the bread and storing them in the refrigerator until just before serving. You can then add the bread and any additional toppings just before serving. This will help to keep the sandwiches fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy or stale.
How do I store leftover salmon sandwiches?
To store leftover salmon sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. You can store the sandwiches for up to a day, but it’s best to consume them within a few hours of assembly for optimal flavor and texture.
If you don’t plan to eat the sandwiches within a day, you can also consider freezing them. Simply wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen salmon sandwiches can be stored for up to 2 months and can be thawed and served when needed.