Salmon Soup Dinner has become my go-to for a quick and satisfying meal, especially on busy weeknights. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was a bit nervous about cooking fish, but this recipe is so forgiving! The aroma of fresh dill and lemon filling my kitchen as the potatoes and carrots softened was divine. It’s a truly delightful and healthy salmon soup dinner that feels both comforting and light. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Soup Dinner
This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of pure comfort and goodness you’ll want to make again and again. Here’s why:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for any night.
- Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it one of the best healthy salmon soup ideas.
- Flavorful: The combination of dill, lemon, and tender salmon is simply irresistible.
- Versatile: Easily customizable, fitting into many of the salmon soup recipes you might find.
- Comforting: A light yet hearty meal that warms you from the inside out.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and fresh, readily available salmon.
- Family-Friendly: A delicious way to get everyone to eat their veggies and fish!
Ingredients for Your Salmon Soup Dinner
Gather these simple ingredients for a fantastic salmon soup dinner. We’re using fresh, vibrant components to create a truly delicious meal. The key to this salmon fillet soup recipe is the quality of your salmon, but don’t worry, you don’t need anything fancy!
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
- 4 green onions, chopped – adds a mild onion flavor
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – essential for depth of flavor
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped – for a subtle sweetness and crunch
- 1 oz fresh dill, chopped (divided) – the star herb, providing a bright, fresh taste
- 5 cups chicken broth or fish stock – the liquid base; fish stock adds extra seafood richness
- 1 lb gold potatoes, thinly sliced into rounds – these create a lovely texture and thicken the soup
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced into rounds – adds a touch of sweetness and color
- 1 tsp dried oregano – a classic herb that complements fish
- 3/4 tsp ground coriander – adds a warm, citrusy note
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin – for a subtle earthy warmth
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste – to enhance all the flavors
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into large chunks – the star of our salmon soup dinner
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon – brightens everything up and cuts through richness
How to Make This Easy Salmon Soup Dinner
- Step 1: Get your kitchen ready by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to serve it with baked bread. On the stovetop, heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the 4 green onions, chopped, 4 garlic cloves, minced, and 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped. Sauté these aromatics until they become fragrant and tender, which should take about 3 minutes. Stir in half of the fresh dill – the smell is incredible!
- Step 2: Now it’s time to build the base of our soup. Pour in the 5 cups chicken broth or fish stock. Add the 1 lb gold potatoes, thinly sliced into rounds, 1 carrot, thinly sliced into rounds, 1 tsp dried oregano, 3/4 tsp ground coriander, and 1/2 tsp ground cumin. Season generously with Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 5–6 minutes. You want the vegetables to be just tender. This is a key part of how to make salmon soup that’s perfectly balanced.
- Step 3: Season the 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into large chunks lightly with salt and pepper. Gently add the salmon pieces to the simmering pot. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot; if necessary, cook in batches. Let the salmon cook for just 3–5 minutes, or until it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking the salmon will make it dry, so keep a close eye on it! The tender salmon chunks are what make this salmon soup with potatoes so satisfying.
- Step 4: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the bright zest and juice of 1 lemon, which really wakes up all the flavors. Add the remaining fresh dill for that final burst of freshness. Give it a good stir and taste, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle this delicious salmon soup dinner into bowls and serve hot. It’s amazing with some crusty bread or a slice of homemade bread for dipping into that flavorful broth!
Pro Tips for the Best Salmon Soup Dinner
I’ve made this soup countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing:
- For an extra rich flavor, swap the chicken broth for fish stock. It really deepens the seafood taste.
- Don’t overcook the salmon! It cooks very quickly. Remove the pot from the heat as soon as it flakes easily; the residual heat will finish it.
- Want a richer, more decadent soup? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of coconut milk at the end for a luscious, creamy salmon soup.
- Boost the nutrients and color by adding a handful of fresh spinach or chopped kale during the last minute of cooking.
What’s the secret to perfect salmon soup dinner?
The secret lies in the fresh dill and lemon combination, plus not overcooking the salmon. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective flavor pairings in many salmon soup recipes. Using quality ingredients makes all the difference! For more information on flavor pairings, check out this guide to flavor pairings.
Can I make salmon soup dinner ahead of time?
You can prepare the vegetable base and broth mixture a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the base and then add the salmon and cook it just before serving for the freshest taste.
How do I avoid common mistakes with salmon soup dinner?
The biggest mistake is overcooking the salmon, which makes it dry and tough. Another pitfall is adding the dill too early; it loses its bright flavor if cooked for too long. Also, ensure your vegetables are tender before adding the fish.
Best Ways to Serve Your Salmon Soup Dinner
This delicious salmon soup dinner is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines with the right companions. For a heartier meal that leans into a comforting vibe, consider serving it alongside a crusty baguette or some rustic garlic parmesan focaccia bread. These are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth, making it feel more like a substantial salmon chowder dinner. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
Nutrition Facts for Salmon Soup Dinner
This healthy salmon soup is a nutritional powerhouse, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more on salmon nutrition, you can consult the FDA’s advice about eating fish.
How to Store and Reheat Salmon Soup Dinner
This delightful salmon soup is perfect for meal prepping, making it easy to enjoy hearty salmon soup meals throughout the week. Once cooked, let the soup cool completely on the counter for about an hour. Then, portion it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just ensure your containers are freezer-safe.
When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can overcook any residual salmon and affect the texture. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Soup Dinner
What is salmon soup?
Salmon soup is a delightful and often light soup featuring chunks of salmon as the star ingredient. It typically includes a flavorful broth, often seasoned with herbs like dill and lemon, and can contain vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. It’s a versatile dish that can range from a clear broth to a more creamy, chowder-like consistency.
Can I make salmon soup dinner ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare parts of this salmon soup dinner ahead of time. The vegetable base can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, I recommend adding the salmon and cooking it just before serving to ensure it stays tender and doesn’t overcook. This makes it a great option for a quick reheat and finish on a busy night.
How do I make a salmon noodle soup dinner?
To transform this into a salmon noodle soup dinner, simply add your favorite noodles to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking, after the salmon has been added. Cook the noodles according to package directions until they are al dente. This adds a wonderful heartiness and makes it a complete meal, perfect for a comforting dinner. Try adding lemon chicken orzo for a different pasta variation.
What are other healthy salmon soup ideas?
Beyond this recipe, healthy salmon soup ideas include adding more greens like spinach or kale, using a lighter vegetable broth, or even incorporating cauliflower rice instead of potatoes for a low-carb option. You can also experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives for varied flavor profiles.
Variations of Salmon Soup Dinner You Can Try
This base recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also incredibly adaptable! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a lighter option, consider this a great start for salmon soup for weight loss by swapping potatoes for cauliflower florets and ensuring you use a low-sodium broth. If you’re craving something richer and more indulgent, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk in the final step for a delightful creamy texture. For a different flavor profile, try making a smoked salmon soup dinner by using flaked smoked salmon instead of fresh fillets; just add it at the very end to warm through, as it’s already cooked. You might also enjoy this salmon patties recipe for another way to enjoy salmon.
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Salmon Soup Dinner: 25-Min Flavorful Meal
- 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 with crusty bread or rye bread.
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