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–+ servings
Salmon on Toast
This humble stovetop supper reflects the practical, economical cooking style common in mid-century American kitchens, when canned fish was a reliable pantry staple. “Salmon from a Can” turns simple ingredients, onion, green pepper, garlic, and herbs, into a gently simmered savory sauce that transforms canned salmon into a comforting main dish. Served over hot buttered toast, it bridges the gap between soup, stew, and gravy, making it both filling and adaptable. Recipes like this were beloved because they stretched ingredients, required no special equipment, and delivered real flavor from what was already on hand. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy, sensible, and deeply satisfying, even decades later.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • ¼ cup green pepper (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups water
  • ½ small can instant tomato bouillon
  • 14 to 15 oz salmon (1 can, drained and flaked)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • salt (to taste)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley (minced)
  • hot buttered toast (for serving)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

  • Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add onion, green pepper, and garlic.
  • Sauté until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Make the sauce base

  • Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well.
  • Slowly add water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Add tomato sauce and continue stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Simmer the sauce

  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add salmon

  • Gently fold in drained salmon.
  • Simmer 20 minutes more without breaking up the fish.

Step 5: Finish and serve

  • Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
  • Serve hot over buttered toast.

Tips

  • Serve over mashed potatoes instead of toast
  • Add a splash of cream for richness
  • Use canned pink or red salmon
  • Stir in frozen peas near the end
  • Add paprika for warmth
  • Use fish stock instead of water
  • Top with chives or green onions
  • Turn into a pot pie filling
  • Serve over rice or biscuits

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 23gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5.1gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 1.8mg
Keyword canned salmon, comfort food, easy meal, pantry dinner, retro recipe, vintage
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