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Salmon Surprise Loaf

Salmon Surprise Loaf recipe image
This Salmon Surprise Loaf is a comforting and elegant main dish that transforms canned salmon into a tender, flavorful centerpiece. By blending the fish with fresh spinach, crisp green onions, and aromatic dill, you create a loaf that is moist, vibrant, and packed with ocean-fresh taste. The addition of lemon zest and juice brightens the rich texture, while crushed saltines provide a satisfying binding element without heavy breadcrumbs. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something substantial yet healthy, or for potlucks where you need a make-ahead option that holds its shape beautifully. It serves eight people generously, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep. The result is a sophisticated yet simple meal that feels homemade and hearty, offering a great balance of protein and greens in every slice.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8
Calories: 416.0
Description
This Salmon Surprise Loaf is a comforting and elegant main dish that transforms canned salmon into a tender, flavorful centerpiece. By blending the fish with fresh spinach, crisp green onions, and aromatic dill, you create a loaf that is moist, vibrant, and packed with ocean-fresh taste. The addition of lemon zest and juice brightens the rich texture, while crushed saltines provide a satisfying binding element without heavy breadcrumbs. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something substantial yet healthy, or for potlucks where you need a make-ahead option that holds its shape beautifully. It serves eight people generously, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep. The result is a sophisticated yet simple meal that feels homemade and hearty, offering a great balance of protein and greens in every slice.
Ingredients
  • 2 can (14 3/4 ounces each) salmon
  • 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach
  • 24 whole unsalted saltine crackers
  • 4 whole green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup parsley sprigs, chopped
  • 1 whole egg substitute (or 2 large eggs)
  • 1/4 cup evaporated skimmed milk
  • 1 whole lemon (rind and juice)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon dill weed
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. 2
    Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan lightly with oil or non-stick spray; optionally coat with fine bread crumbs for easier release.
  3. 3
    Drain the canned salmon thoroughly in a colander. Pick through the salmon to remove any large bones and discard the dark skin.
  4. 4
    Place the flaked salmon in a large mixing bowl.
  5. 5
    Thaw the frozen chopped spinach if not already thawed. Squeeze the spinach firmly in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to remove as much excess liquid as possible.
  6. 6
    In a food processor, combine the squeezed spinach, saltine crackers, chopped green onions, parsley, egg substitute, evaporated milk, lemon rind, lemon juice, dill weed, and pepper.
  7. 7
    Pulse the food processor until the vegetables and crackers are finely chopped and well combined, but not pureed.
  8. 8
    Add the processed vegetable mixture to the bowl with the salmon. Using your hands or a spatula, gently mix everything together until evenly blended.
  9. 9
    Spoon the salmon mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly with a spatula to eliminate air pockets.
  10. 10
    Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until the loaf is lightly browned on top and set in the center.
  11. 11
    Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set.
  12. 12
    Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert the loaf onto a serving platter. Slice and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 416.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 26.0g40%
Saturated Fat 6.2g31%
Cholesterol 110.0mg37%
Sodium 118.0mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 40.0g80%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: salmon loaf, spinach, dill, lemon, healthy dinner, protein rich, baked salmon, fish loaf, easy main, family meal, potluck dish, low carb, omega 3, weeknight dinner, canned salmon recipe, herb crust, comfort food, make ahead, gluten free option, seafood bake
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/salmon-surprise-loaf/