Slow Cooker Salmon Stew: Easiest Weeknight Dinner

slow cooker salmon stew is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly evening. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and promise a delicious, heartwarming meal. This slow cooker salmon stew recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also delivers a depth of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds, guaranteed. It reminds me of my grandmother's simple yet satisfying cooking, where wholesome ingredients were transformed into magic.

Why You Will Love This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

There's so much to love about this slow cooker salmon stew. Firstly, it’s incredibly comforting. Imagine tender chunks of salmon swimming in a rich, flavorful broth, infused with the earthy sweetness of vegetables. It's like a warm hug in a bowl!

Secondly, the slow cooker does all the work! Seriously, it’s a dream for busy weeknights. Just toss everything in, set it, and forget it. You come home to a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal waiting for you. What could be easier?

And let's not forget the flavor! The low and slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that's simply irresistible. The salmon stays incredibly moist and tender, and the vegetables become melt in your mouth delicious. It tastes like it took hours to prepare, but shhh… it's our little secret! This recipe creates a dish that's both elegant and satisfying. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate healthy salmon into your diet.

Ingredients Needed for This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

Here's what you'll need to create this delectable slow cooker salmon stew:

• Salmon: 1.5 pounds, skinless, boneless salmon fillets, cut into 1inch cubes

• Potatoes: 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced

• Carrots: 2 cups, peeled and sliced

• Celery: 1 cup, diced

• Onion: 1 large yellow onion, chopped

• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced

• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or fish stock for a richer flavor)

• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained

• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons

• Dried Dill: 1 teaspoon

• Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon

• Bay Leaf: 1

• Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)

• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)

• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (optional, for added richness)

• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish

• Lemon wedges: For serving

How to Make This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

Ready to transform these ingredients into a comforting slow cooker salmon stew? Let's get started!

1. In your slow cooker, combine the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. This creates the flavor base of your stew.

2. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, dried dill, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The canned tomatoes add both liquid and acidity. The thyme and dill make a perfect savory pairing.

3. Gently place the cubed salmon on top of the vegetables. Avoid stirring at this point to prevent the salmon from breaking apart too much during cooking. Feel free to experiment with other slow cooker recipes for inspiration!

4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 46 hours, or on high for 23 hours. The salmon should be cooked through and easily flake with a fork. Cooking too long will dry out the salmon.

5. Remove the bay leaf. Discard the bay leaf as it has imparted its flavor.

6. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer, creamier stew. This step is optional but adds a luxurious touch.

7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges. The lemon brightens the flavors perfectly. You can also bake cornbread to enjoy with the soup.

8. Before serving, give the stew a gentle stir. Avoid over mixing.

How to Serve This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

This slow cooker salmon stew is wonderful on its own as a hearty meal. However, here are a few ideas to elevate your serving experience:

• Serving Suggestions: Ladle the stew into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, a sprinkle of fresh dill, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

• Pairing Ideas: Serve with a side of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious broth. A simple green salad also makes a refreshing accompaniment.

• Topping Recommendations: Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a drizzle of olive oil for richness. Some people also enjoy a spoonful of pesto.

• Plating Ideas: For an elegant presentation, garnish each bowl with a sprig of fresh dill and a thin slice of lemon.

How to Store This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

Proper storage ensures that your leftovers remain delicious and safe to eat.

• Refrigeration Instructions: Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 34 days.

• Freezing Guidelines: For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer safe containers. It is best to freeze it in single serve portions.

• Reheating Tips: Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave. If frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Shelf Life Information: Properly stored in the refrigerator, this stew will last for 34 days. When frozen, it can last for up to 23 months.

Tips to Make This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your slow cooker salmon stew is a success:

• Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute other vegetables based on your preferences. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even kale would be great additions. You can also use different types of salmon, such as sockeye or coho. Smoked salmon can provide intense smoked flavor.

• Success Tips: Do not overcook the salmon, as it can become dry and tough. Keep an eye on it during the last hour of cooking and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Avoid stirring in the beginning so the salmon does not stick to the bottom of the slow cooker.

• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Adding too much salt. Taste the stew before adding any additional seasoning.

• Pro Tips for Best Results: For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes with a fork before serving.

Helpful Notes for This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

Here are some additional details to keep in mind:

• Ingredient Details: Using high quality salmon will improve the flavor of the stew. Fresh or frozen salmon works well.

• Equipment Recommendations: A 6 quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.

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Variation of This slow cooker salmon stew Recipe

Want to personalize your slow cooker salmon stew? Here are some creative variations to try:

• Seasonal Twists: In the fall, add butternut squash and cranberries for a seasonal flavor. In the spring, consider stirring in fresh asparagus or peas.

• Optional Versions: Add a splash of white wine to the stew for extra depth of flavor. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.

• Creative Modifications: Include some coconut milk to replace heavy cream. Also, feel free to add an assortment of fish cuts. Or switch it up completely and make slow cooker shrimp tacos instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it a simple, hearty, and delicious slow cooker salmon stew that's sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender salmon, flavorful vegetables, and creamy broth is truly irresistible. This slow cooker salmon stew is the perfect way to enjoy a comforting and healthy meal with minimal effort. So give it a try and let me know what you think!

Slow Cooker Salmon Stew: Easiest Weeknight Dinner

This slow cooker salmon stew is a healthy and delicious meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Tender salmon, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy broth come together in this easy slow cooker recipe.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Diet: Pescatarian

Nutrition:

Calories: 350
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 18g

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds skinless, boneless salmon fillets, cut into 1inch cubes
• 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. In your slow cooker, combine the potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
2. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, dried dill, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Gently place the cubed salmon on top of the vegetables. Avoid stirring at this point to prevent the salmon from breaking apart too much during cooking.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 46 hours, or on high for 23 hours. The salmon should be cooked through and easily flake with a fork.
5. Remove the bay leaf. Discard the bay leaf as it has imparted its flavor.
6. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer, creamier stew. This step is optional but adds a luxurious touch.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges. The lemon brightens the flavors perfectly.

Notes

• For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes with a fork before serving.
• You can substitute other vegetables based on your preferences, such as sweet potatoes, parsnips, or kale.
• Using high quality salmon will improve the flavor of the stew.