Salmon is a delicious and healthy fish that is a popular choice for many meals. Leftover cooked salmon can easily be reheated and enjoyed again. However, proper reheating is important to ensure the salmon stays moist and retains its texture and flavor. Here are some tips on the best way to reheat salmon fillets or other cooked salmon.
Can you reheat cooked salmon?
Yes, it is absolutely safe to reheat previously cooked salmon as long as it was properly stored after the initial cooking. Salmon, like any cooked protein, can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. As long as the salmon has been refrigerated promptly after cooking and hasn’t exceeded the safe storage timeframe, reheating and eating it again is fine.
What is the best way to reheat salmon?
The oven is the best method for evenly reheating salmon without drying it out. To reheat in the oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place salmon fillets or piece of cooked salmon on a baking sheet. You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.
- Heat salmon in the oven for about 6-8 minutes if reheating a thinner salmon fillet. For thicker cuts or salmon steaks, reheat for 8-12 minutes.
- Check that the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145°F. Use a food thermometer to accurately determine doneness.
- Allow the salmon to rest 2-3 minutes before serving.
The gentle, ambient heat of the oven reheats the salmon through without overcooking or drying it out. Salmon reheated in the oven retains moisture and flakes nicely.
Can you reheat salmon in the microwave?
It is possible to reheat salmon in the microwave but extra care must be taken. Microwaves apply direct heat unevenly, leading to potential hot and cold spots. To microwave salmon:
- Use a lower power setting between 50-70%. Full power can cause overcooking.
- Arrange a single layer of salmon fillets on a microwave-safe dish. Do not stack.
- Heat for 60-90 seconds on medium power, then check for doneness. Continue heating 30 seconds at a time until heated through.
- Allow to rest at least 1 minute before serving.
- If reheating a salmon steak or thicker cut, heat for longer 2-3 minutes on medium power.
Take extra care when microwaving not to overcook the salmon. Microwaved salmon can quickly become dry.
Can you reheat salmon in a skillet or pan?
You can also reheat cooked salmon fillets or pieces in a skillet or frying pan on the stovetop. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. When hot, add the salmon pieces skin side down first. Cook 2-3 minutes until warmed through then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes on the flesh side. A skillet allows the salmon to get some browning and caramelized flavor.
Tips for reheating salmon
Follow these tips for the best results when reheating cooked salmon:
- Use the oven or skillet for evenly reheated salmon. Microwave only if necessary.
- Reheat fully chilled salmon straight from the refrigerator.
- Choose a low power microwave setting and heat salmon pieces under 2 inches thick for best results.
- Cover with a damp paper towel or ventilated cover in the microwave to prevent dryness.
- Check for doneness with a food thermometer if possible. Cook to 145°F.
- Allow salmon to rest 2-3 minutes after reheating before serving.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, or sauce to add moisture and flavor.
How long does reheated salmon last?
Once cooked or reheated salmon has cooled back down, it has the same storage timeline as initially cooked salmon. Store reheated salmon within 2 hours of reheating in an airtight container. Use within 3-4 days. Do not reheat salmon more than once.
What if my salmon dried out when reheating?
It’s easy for salmon to dry out and become overcooked when reheating. If your reheated salmon seems dry or tough, try the following fixes:
- Flake the salmon into chunks and add to a salad or pasta dish with a moist dressing.
- Turn dry salmon pieces into salmon cakes or croquettes, binding with egg, breadcrumbs and seasoning.
- Use pieces of the salmon in a chowder, stew or soup.
- Blend very dry overcooked salmon with mayo or cream cheese for an easy salmon spread dip.
While dried out salmon won’t be pleasant to eat on its own, you can still salvage the fish by incorporating it into flavorful recipes.
Conclusion
Yes, you can absolutely reheat previously cooked salmon safely. The best methods are using the oven or stove top to evenly heat the salmon through without overcooking the delicate fish. Take care when reheating in the microwave as it’s easy to dry out the salmon. With some simple care when handling and reheating, leftover cooked salmon can be just delicious the second time around.