10 Genius Leftover Salmon Recipes

My favorite leftover salmon recipe is this salmon salad! It’s a creamy, crunchy mix of tangy flavors: just like Tuna Salad but using leftover salmon! The flavor is savory and satisfying, and this recipe has a healthy spin with less mayo. It takes just 5 minutes, and works with crackers, in lettuce wraps, in a sandwich, and more.

Here’s a delicious leftover salmon recipe that’s worked its way into my regular rotation: salmon cakes! These are just like crab cakes but they use leftover salmon instead. Pair them with tartar sauce or remoulade sauce, and the contrast of the crisp, herb-scented patties against the creamy dipping sauce is unreal.

Everything is better in a bowl, right? Here’s the epitome of a healthy bowl meal: this Salmon Rice Crunch Bowl! This simple recipe ideas mixes leftover salmon with fresh veggies, spicy mayo and crunchy bits of fried onion.

Here’s a leftover salmon recipe that’s basic but satisfies every time: Salmon Caesar Salad! Tender, chunks of salmon are delicious when nestled with bursts of crunchy romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes and crunchy croutons. It’s all covered in a creamy homemade Caesar dressing.

These burgers are so deliciously satisfying: each bite is hearty and juicy, topped with a creamy remoulade sauce. This recipe is for raw salmon, but you can use cooked and flaked: 1 pound salmon = 2 cups cooked flaked salmon. (Reduce the cook time slightly since the salmon is already cooked.)

Tuna is traditional in the classic Nicoise salad: but why not use leftover salmon? The traditional French Nicoise salad is a mix of hard boiled eggs, green beans, Kalamata olives, tomatoes, and tangy potatoes with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It's so satisfying as a lunch or dinner with a glass of white wine. (Substitute leftover salmon for the tuna in the linked recipe.)

Another fun bowl meal idea: try this Salmon Poke Bowl! Classic poke bowls traditionally feature raw ahi tuna, but you can use cooked salmon as a fun spin. Load up your bowl with crunchy cucumber noodles and sesame carrot ribbons, quick pickled cabbage, rice, and a savory sauce.

Leftover salmon works for breakfast or brunch, too! Here’s a fun idea that takes minutes to whip up but feels elegant: a Salmon Omelette! The seasoned salmon against tender eggs, a burst of salty feta and fresh herbaceous chives looks stunning but takes just minutes to make. (Substitute well-seasoned leftover salmon for the smoked salmon in the linked recipe.)

Here’s a leftover salmon recipe that works for breakfast, lunch, or brunch: Smoked Salmon Toast! This recipe is simple toast of artisan bread loaded with fluffy whipped ricotta, salmon, capers and fresh dill. The pink salmon looks vibrant against the delicate green dill fronds. (Substitute well-seasoned leftover salmon for the smoked salmon in the linked recipe.)

My spin on this classic creamy uses a bit of Greek yogurt for a healthier spin, but it’s still chock full of rich flavor: hearty cream cheese and punchy Dijon. Mix it up in 5 minutes, and it’s a delicious appetizer or snack dipped with crackers or crusty bread. (Substitute seasoned leftover salmon for the smoked salmon in the linked recipe, then add additional salt to taste until the flavor pops.)