Salmon Loaf offers a fantastic blend of savory flavors and hearty textures, making it a standout dish for any meal. With its rich salmon base and a unique creamy sauce featuring olives and almonds, this recipe brings a touch of elegance to the classic loaf.

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A Recipe for Salmon Loaf

A Recipe for Salmon Loaf Recipe Card

Vintage Recipe Box 400 comes to us from Chalfont, Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

It is a large white metal box that measures 12” D x 5.5” W x 4” H and has a metal tag that says “American Home Menu Maker.” According to my research, the box was sold in multiple colors for $1 and included 212 “basic recipes” for an additional $.50. (See the image below, which is an order form to purchase the box.)

At this time, we do not know anything about the history of the box. We do show that this box came to us with another box, but at this time, we are not sure if the same person owned them or if the eBay seller grouped them.

View all the vintage recipes from Vintage Recipe Box 400. Click here to view all the Vintage Recipe Boxes we have published in our collection.

Food History

Salmon has long been a staple in many cultures, prized for its flavor and nutritional benefits. Salmon loaf, similar to meatloaf but using fish, became popular in North America as a budget-friendly and nutritious meal during the early to mid-20th century.

Timeline

Early 20th Century: Salmon loaf recipes begin to appear in cookbooks as a way to extend the fish and incorporate other ingredients.
Mid-20th Century: With the rise of canned goods, salmon loaf becomes a common household dish, appreciated for its convenience and taste.
Late 20th Century: Recipes evolve to include more diverse ingredients such as nuts and olives, enhancing the flavor and texture of the dish.

Recipe Discussion

This salmon loaf is prepared with red salmon mixed with fine bread crumbs, vegetables, and lemon juice. It is then moistened with evaporated milk and baked to perfection. The loaf is complemented by a creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, flour, and evaporated milk, enriched with olives and almonds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the salmon loaf sliced, topped with the creamy sauce, alongside steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs well with white wine such as Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio.

Preparation Tips

Consistency: Ensure the loaf mixture is not too dry or wet for the best texture.
Sauce Thickness: When making the sauce, cook until thickened to avoid a floury taste.
Flavor Enhancers: Add a pinch of dill or parsley to the loaf mixture to complement the salmon.

A Recipe for Salmon Loaf Recipe

A Recipe for Salmon Loaf (VRP 400)

Ingredients

Loaf

2 cups red salmon
1 cup fine bread crumbs
1/2 cup celery
1.4 cup green pepper
2 tablespoons minced onion
2 tablespoon lemon juice
1 large can evaporated milk
1 beaten egg

Sauce

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup evaporated milk (add water to make 1 - 1 1/2 cups)
1/4 cup sliced stuffed olives (if desired)
1/4 cup chopped salted almonds (if desired)
Combine mayonnaise, flour, salt and milk mixture. Cook stirring constantly until thickened. Add olives and almonds (if desired).

Instructions

Combine above ingredients
Bake at 300 for approximately 1 hour.
Test as for custard

Whether you’re hosting a dinner or seeking a nutritious meal for the family, this Salmon Loaf recipe is an excellent choice. It’s a satisfying, flavorful dish that proves simple ingredients can create a delicious and elegant meal.