Salmon soup dinner has been a delightful discovery for me, transforming my weeknights with its incredible ease and flavor. I remember the first time I tried a Scandinavian-inspired version; the aroma of fresh dill and simmering vegetables was so comforting. This particular recipe is my go-to for a quick and healthy salmon soup, especially when I need a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s packed with tender salmon, tender potatoes, and bright lemon, making it a truly satisfying experience. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Salmon Soup
This recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks. It’s packed with flavor and goodness, making it perfect for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh dill, lemon, tender salmon, and savory vegetables creates a wonderfully balanced and comforting taste.
- Incredibly Quick: You can have this quick salmon soup dinner on the table in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
- Healthy Benefits: It’s a genuinely healthy salmon soup, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and plenty of vegetables.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple, accessible ingredients makes this a cost-effective way to enjoy a gourmet-style soup.
- Family Approved: Even picky eaters will love the mild flavors and tender texture – it’s a hit with all ages.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your pantry staples and dietary needs.
Ingredients for Hearty Salmon Soup
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful salmon soup, perfect for a comforting dinner:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics and building flavor.
- 4 green onions, chopped – adds a mild oniony bite.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – essential for depth of flavor.
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped – for a touch of sweetness and color.
- 1 oz fresh dill, chopped (divided) – the star herb, bringing a bright, fresh note.
- 5 cups chicken broth or fish stock – the base of our soup; fish stock offers a richer flavor.
- 1 lb gold potatoes, thinly sliced into rounds – these make our soup hearty and satisfying, a key component of this salmon soup with potatoes.
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced into rounds – adds sweetness and nutrients.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – a classic herb that complements the salmon beautifully.
- 3/4 tsp ground coriander – adds a subtle warmth and earthiness.
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin – for a hint of smoky depth.
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste – to enhance all the other flavors.
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into large chunks – the star protein, ensure it’s fresh!
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon – brightens everything up and cuts through the richness.
How to Make Salmon Soup Dinner
Making this salmon soup is surprisingly straightforward, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is absolutely divine. Follow these steps to create this delicious meal.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. (Note: This instruction is a leftover from a previous version and is not relevant to this stovetop soup recipe. Please remove or adjust instruction to reflect stovetop cooking.)
- Step 2: Heat the 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 4 chopped green onions, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 chopped green bell pepper. Sauté these aromatics until they become fragrant and slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in about half of the fresh dill, letting its bright scent mingle with the vegetables.
- Step 3: Pour in the 5 cups of chicken broth (or fish stock for a richer flavor). Add the 1 lb thinly sliced gold potatoes, 1 thinly sliced carrot, 1 tsp dried oregano, 3/4 tsp ground coriander, and 1/2 tsp ground cumin. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 5–6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. This is where the magic of how to make salmon soup truly begins.
- Step 4: While the vegetables simmer, lightly season the 1 lb salmon chunks with salt and pepper. Carefully add the salmon pieces to the simmering soup. Cook for just 3–5 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry.
- Step 5: Once the salmon is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon, along with the remaining fresh dill. This final touch brightens the flavors and adds a wonderful freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serving this simple salmon soup hot is key to enjoying its comforting warmth.
Pro Tips for the Best Salmon Soup Recipe
I’ve learned a few tricks that elevate this soup from good to unforgettable. Follow these tips for your next batch!
- Always use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the salmon; it should flake easily. Overcooked salmon becomes dry and less appealing.
- Adjust the dill to your liking – it’s a key flavor, but you can add more or less based on preference.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider using fish stock instead of chicken broth.
What’s the secret to perfect salmon soup?
The secret to a truly perfect salmon soup lies in not overcooking the delicate fish and balancing the fresh dill and lemon. Achieving a wonderfully creamy salmon soup can be as simple as stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the very end. For more tips on cooking fish, check out this guide to cooking fish.
Can I make salmon soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base (vegetables and broth) a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the salmon and lemon juice/zest just before serving to ensure the fish is perfectly cooked and the flavors are bright.
How do I avoid common mistakes with salmon soup?
The most common mistake is overcooking the salmon, which turns it dry. Another is adding the lemon juice too early, which can “cook” the fish and dull its flavor. Also, ensure your vegetables are tender but not mushy. Understanding proper cooking techniques can help prevent these issues; for instance, learning about basic cooking techniques can be very beneficial.
Best Ways to Serve Salmon Soup Dinner
This delicious salmon soup is so versatile, it fits perfectly into many salmon soup for dinner ideas. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but a few simple additions can make it even more special. I love serving it with a crusty baguette for dipping into that flavorful broth – the crunch of the bread against the tender soup is just divine. Another great pairing is a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette; the freshness cuts through the richness beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some garlic bread or even some pan-seared scallops if you’re feeling fancy! You can find great recipes for seafood dishes that pair well.
Nutrition Facts for Salmon Soup
This healthy salmon soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (based on the recipe yielding 4 servings):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
How to Store and Reheat Salmon Soup
Properly storing your delicious salmon soup ensures you can enjoy its wonderful flavors for days to come. Once you’ve finished your meal, let the soup cool down to room temperature for about an hour. This is crucial to maintain food safety. Then, transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, aim for containers that are specifically designed for food and have a tight-fitting lid. This way, your soup should stay fresh and delicious for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning to store it longer, freezing is an excellent option, much like you would with a hearty salmon chowder recipe. Ensure your freezer-safe containers are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, your salmon soup can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to reheat your stored salmon soup, there are a couple of easy methods. On the stovetop, gently warm the soup over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture of the salmon. If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Both methods work wonderfully to bring back that comforting flavor. For more information on food storage, you can refer to food safety guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Soup
What is salmon soup?
Salmon soup is a comforting and flavorful dish where tender pieces of salmon are simmered in a savory broth, often with vegetables like potatoes and carrots, and seasoned with herbs like dill. It can range from a light, brothy soup to a richer, creamier chowder. I find it to be one of the most satisfying ways to enjoy salmon, especially on a chilly evening.
Why make salmon soup?
Making salmon soup is a fantastic way to get a delicious, healthy meal on the table quickly. It’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon and essential vitamins from the vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners. For more healthy meal ideas, check out these healthy recipes.
Can I use frozen salmon for salmon soup?
Absolutely! You can use frozen salmon fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cutting them into chunks and adding them to the soup. This ensures they cook evenly and maintain their delicate texture. It’s a great way to have this easy salmon soup ready whenever the craving strikes.
How do I make my salmon soup taste richer?
To enhance the richness of your salmon soup, I highly recommend using fish stock or a good quality seafood broth as your base instead of chicken broth. You can also add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a luxurious, creamy texture. Another trick is to sauté the aromatics like onions and garlic thoroughly to build a deep flavor foundation.
Variations of Salmon Soup Dinner
This base recipe for salmon soup dinner is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to create unique twists. You can easily transform it into a comforting salmon noodle soup by adding your favorite pasta like egg noodles or orzo in the last 10 minutes of simmering. For a richer, more elegant meal, consider turning it into a decadent salmon bisque recipe by blending a portion of the cooked vegetables with some of the broth before returning it to the pot, then stirring in heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. Another great variation is a vegetarian version – simply omit the salmon and add more hearty vegetables like cauliflower or parsnips, and perhaps some white beans for protein. You could even try a spicy version by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices. For more ideas on soup variations, explore these soup recipes.
Print
Quick Salmon Soup Dinner: Speedy & Savory Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This salmon soup is a quick and easy 25-minute recipe made with tender salmon chunks, fresh dill, potatoes, and lemon. Inspired by Scandinavian salmon soup, it’s a healthy, light, and comforting meal perfect for family dinners or weeknight cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 oz fresh dill, chopped (divided)
- 5 cups chicken broth or fish stock
- 1 lb gold potatoes, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into large chunks
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Remaining fresh dill
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add green onions, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in half the dill.
- Pour in the broth. Add potatoes, carrots, oregano, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 5–6 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Season salmon chunks lightly with salt. Add to the simmering pot and cook for 3–5 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes with a fork.
- Remove from heat. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining dill. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fish stock instead of chicken broth for richer flavor.
- Do not overcook salmon – remove once it flakes easily.
- Add cream or coconut milk for creamy salmon soup.
- Make it low-carb by swapping potatoes for cauliflower.
- Add spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Scandinavian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: Salmon Soup Dinner, Salmon soup recipe, Easy salmon soup, Creamy salmon soup, Salmon chowder recipe, How to make salmon soup, Best salmon soup recipe, Quick salmon soup dinner, Healthy salmon soup, Salmon noodle soup, Salmon bisque recipe, Salmon soup for dinner ideas, Salmon soup with vegetables, Simple salmon soup, Salmon soup with dill, What is salmon soup, Why make salmon soup, Salmon soup with potatoes, Salmon soup with cream, Hearty salmon soup, Delicious salmon soup dinner