This Easy Salmon Soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s full of flavor, yet quick and simple to prepare. Loaded with chunks of tender salmon, vegetables, and a rich broth, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or something cozy to warm you up on a cold day, this salmon soup will hit the spot. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy-to-make recipe!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Salmon Fillets (1 lb, skin removed, cut into bite-sized chunks)
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Carrots (2 medium, peeled and diced)
- Celery (2 stalks, diced)
- Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and diced)
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth (4 cups)
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup, optional for a creamier texture)
- Fresh Dill (2 tablespoons, chopped)
- Bay Leaves (2)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, for brightness)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh Dill or Parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Prep the Veggies: Begin by peeling and dicing the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Carrots, Celery, and Potatoes: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Bay Leaves
- Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer the Vegetables: Let the vegetables simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Step 4: Add the Salmon
- Add the Salmon: Gently stir in the salmon chunks and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
- Add Cream (Optional): For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream at this point. Let the soup heat through but avoid boiling once the cream is added.
- Season: Stir in the fresh dill, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Duration Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 290
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
FAQs
1. Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned salmon if fresh salmon isn’t available. Drain and add it in at the end, just to heat through.
2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Skip the heavy cream or substitute with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
3. How do I store leftover soup?
Store any leftover salmon soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the salmon.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. What can I serve with salmon soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also serve it with a side of lemon wedges to brighten the flavors.
6. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach, kale, zucchini, or leeks for variety.
7. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque throughout. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry.
8. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, frozen salmon works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the soup.
Conclusion
This Easy Salmon Soup is a healthy, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes. The combination of tender salmon, creamy potatoes, and fresh dill creates a satisfying soup that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this salmon soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!