Canned salmon can be a great start to a fast and healthy meal. Read on for tasty and budget-wise ideas.
Having canned salmon on hand is a great way to make a lot of different quick and easy meals. What if I don’t eat the whole can at once? Is it safe to freeze salmon that I’ve already cooked?
The good news is yes, you can absolutely freeze canned salmon for longer term storage. Freezing is an excellent way to save unused portions while maintaining quality and safety.
Read on to learn tips for properly freezing and thawing canned salmon, along with delicious ways to use it in recipes after freezing.
Why Freeze Canned Salmon?
Freezing allows you to
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Store open cans for 3-4 months instead of 3-4 days
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Stock up when prices are low
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Always have some on hand for recipes
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Avoid waste from leftover portions
Freezing locks in freshness and puts the unused salmon on pause until you need it again.
Can You Freeze Canned Salmon In the Can?
It’s best not to freeze canned salmon in the original can. The can could burst once the liquid inside expands during freezing.
Instead, transfer the salmon to an airtight freezer bag or container first. This prevents freezer burn and damage to the can.
How to Freeze Canned Salmon
Follow these simple steps:
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Drain the salmon well and discard the liquid.
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Transfer to a plastic freezer bag, plastic container, or glass container. Glass is best for preventing freezer burn.
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Remove as much air from the bag or container as possible before sealing.
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Label with the type of salmon and date frozen.
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Place flat in the freezer so it freezes quickly and evenly.
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For best quality, use within 3 months. Discard if older.
Tips for Freezing Canned Salmon
Keep these tips in mind:
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Don’t bother seasoning before freezing – season later when using.
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Portion into recipe-ready amounts for easier thawing.
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Combine salmon scraps into a batch for salmon patties or dips.
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Lay packs flat so they freeze solid as quickly as possible.
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Use oldest frozen salmon first to avoid spoilage.
Thawing Frozen Canned Salmon
Always thaw frozen salmon safely in the refrigerator overnight, NOT at room temperature.
Microwaving partially thawed salmon can lead to uneven cooking. For faster thawing, place the sealed pack in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
Once thawed, use within 3-4 days. Don’t refreeze salmon after thawing.
How to Use Frozen Canned Salmon
Frozen canned salmon works beautifully in:
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Salmon patties or cakes
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Salmon salad sandwiches or wraps
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Salmon fried rice or pasta bakes
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Hearty salmon chowders or soups
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Easy salmon tacos or quesadillas
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Quick salmon hash with potatoes
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Simple salmon scrambled eggs
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Nutritious salmon and veggie bowls
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Delicious salmon dip or spread
So don’t toss leftover canned salmon – freeze it instead! With proper freezing and thawing, you can enjoy delicious canned salmon whenever those cravings strike.
5 things to do with canned salmon
- Add canned salmon to macaroni and cheese.
- Spread salmon salad over whole-grain crackers or pita wedges.
- Add salmon from a can to mashed regular or sweet potatoes.
- Put salmon salad between celery ribs or on top of thick red pepper slices.
Canned salmon is a nutritious choice
- There is a lot of protein, vitamin D, calcium (from the bones), and omega-3 fats in salmon in a can. Omega-3 fats are good for your heart and help babies’ brains grow in a healthy way.
- Canada’s Food Guide says that at every meal, we should eat a protein-rich food, like fish and salmon.
Canned salmon is an inexpensive food. Compare the prices of no-name, store brand and brand-name options. Buy extra if you can when its on sale. All types of canned salmon (pink, chum, coho and red sockeye) are nutritious choices. Choose canned salmon with the bones so that you get the most calcium. Look for the lower sodium (salt) versions. Check out our article on reading labels to help you pick the best choice.
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FAQ
Is it OK to freeze canned salmon?
Is canned salmon as healthy as frozen?
Does salmon freeze well?
Can canned salmon go bad?
Can you freeze canned salmon?
You should consume the refrigerated salmon within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and flavor. If you wish to keep opened canned salmon for a longer period, freezing is an option. Follow these steps for effective freezing: Rinse and drain the salmon. Place it in an airtight container or sealable freezer bag; remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Is fresh salmon safe to eat?
Yes, salmon is a source of omega 3, the fatty acid is responsible for acting in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, making the heart strong and healthy. Just be careful to analyze the supplier to make sure it doesn’t have any contamination.
Can you freeze salmon if it is spoiled?
If you freeze it, you can use it for up to 12 months after its sell-by date. There is a risk of illness when salmon is spoiled due to mold and bacteria buildup. Salmon can be kept in the freezer or wrapped in aluminum foil for the best results.
Does canned salmon need to be refrigerated?
Once opened, canned salmon’s shelf life diminishes, and it then requires refrigeration. The contents should be transferred to an airtight container to prevent the absorption of other odors and to maintain moisture. Refrigeration can help preserve the salmon for 3-4 days.