How To Store Salmon

If you’re a salmon lover, like me, you know that keeping your fish fresh is not just a preference, but a must. The taste and quality of salmon can vary greatly depending on how it’s stored.

But how exactly should we store salmon to ensure it stays at its best? Whether it’s fresh, frozen, or already cooked, we’ve got all the answers for you.

With this guide, you can look forward to enjoying your favorite fish in the best possible condition. Let’s jump right in!

Vacuum sealed salmon on a white wooden background.

Answer

To store fresh salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic or foil and place it in the coldest part of your fridge. Frozen salmon should be stored in a freezer bag with minimal air. Cooked salmon should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge. Always remember to consume fresh and cooked salmon within 1-2 and 3-4 days, respectively.

Fresh salmon

Fresh salmon is a real treat! When you bring home a nice, fresh piece of salmon from the market, you want to make sure it stays that way.

The first thing to do is to place it in the fridge as soon as possible. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, which will help keep it moist and prevent it from absorbing odors from other food in your fridge.

Finally, it’s best to keep it in the coldest part of your fridge, which is usually the bottom shelf at the back.

Frozen salmon

If you’ve stocked up on salmon during a sale or you just like to have some on hand, frozen salmon is a fantastic option.

To store it properly, first, keep it in the original packaging if it’s still unopened. If it’s been opened, transfer it into a freezer bag.

Press out as much air as you can before sealing it; this will prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the fish.

And don’t forget to put a label on the bag with the date. This helps you know how long the fish has been in the freezer, so you can make sure you’re always eating it at its freshest.

If you’d like to learn the proper way to freeze salmon, check out our guide on how to freeze salmon for all the steps.

Cooked salmon

Got leftovers from your delicious salmon dinner? No problem! Just wait for the salmon to cool down to room temperature to prevent condensation from forming in the container, which could make your salmon soggy.

Transfer it to an airtight container, which will keep it fresh and protect it from other smells in your fridge.

Lastly, store it in the fridge where it will stay safe and delicious until you’re ready to eat it again.

How long will salmon last?

In the fridge

The lifespan of salmon in your fridge depends on whether it’s fresh or cooked.

Fresh salmon should be eaten within 1-2 days of being stored in the fridge. Beyond this, it might not be safe to eat.
Cooked salmon will last a little longer – about 3-4 days. This makes it a great option for meal prep or leftovers!

In the freezer

If you’re planning on saving your salmon for later, the freezer is your best bet. Frozen salmon will last a good long while in your freezer – up to 6 months!

This makes it a fantastic option for always having a healthy protein on hand. Just make sure it’s stored properly in airtight packaging to keep its flavor intact and prevent freezer burn.

Cooked salmon

Leftover salmon is good for 3-4 days in the fridge. But you can also freeze cooked salmon for up to 3 months!

This is a great way to make sure you never waste any of your delicious meals and it can be a lifesaver on those busy nights when you don’t have time to cook.

How to tell if salmon is bad

Nobody wants to eat bad salmon! Here are a few signs your salmon might be past its prime.

Smell: Fresh salmon has a mild, salty smell that is pleasant and not overpowering. If your salmon smells really fishy or sour, it’s time to throw it out.
Appearance: Fresh salmon should look shiny and moist. If it looks dull or dry, it’s likely past its prime.
Texture: Fresh salmon should feel firm and slightly slippery, but not slimy. If your salmon has a slimy texture, it’s not good and should not be consumed.

How to defrost salmon

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to thaw frozen salmon safely and effectively:

Remove from Freezer: Take the salmon out of the freezer.
Place in Fridge: Put it in the fridge to start the thawing process.
Thaw Slowly: Allow it to thaw slowly overnight. Never leave it out on the counter to thaw as this can lead to bacterial growth.
Prep for Cooking: When you’re ready to cook it, remove the salmon from the fridge.
Rest at Room Temperature: Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This step helps the salmon cook more evenly and ensures the best flavor.

How to reheat cooked salmon

Reheating salmon is pretty easy, but there are a few tips to make sure it doesn’t dry out. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Then, place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with foil. This will help keep it moist and prevent it from sticking.

Warm it up for about 15 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Remember to check it regularly, as salmon can easily become dry if overheated!

Frequently asked questions about how to store salmon

It’s best to store different types of fish separately to avoid flavor cross-contamination and to ensure each type is stored under its optimal conditions.

Yes, you can. Fresh salmon can be stored directly in the freezer. Keep it in an airtight freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, label it with the date, and it will last up to 6 months.

While freezing can preserve salmon beyond 6 months, its quality in terms of taste and texture may decline. For optimal flavor, consume frozen salmon within 6 months of freezing.

Conclusion

Now you know all the ins and outs of storing salmon. Whether it’s fresh from the market, frozen for later, or leftover from last night’s dinner, you can ensure your salmon stays tasty and safe to eat with these easy steps.

Armed with this information, you can enjoy delicious, safe salmon at any time. So, the next time you bring home a salmon, remember these tips and enjoy the wonderful flavors this versatile fish has to offer.

How To Store Salmon