On a chilly autumn evening last year, I discovered the transformative power of a well-made salmon stew recipe. After two decades of crafting recipes, this dish stands out as a perfect blend of convenience and comfort. What started as a way to use leftover salmon has become my family’s most requested dinner. Today, I’m excited to share this treasured recipe with you.

Are you looking for a nutritious, fuss-free dinner that feels like a warm hug? This southern salmon stew recipe is your answer. Ready in just 30 minutes using a single pot, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or impressive weekend gatherings.

Why This Salmon Stew Recipe Will Become Your Go-To Dish

This isn’t just another fish stew—it’s a game-changer. The one-pot cooking method means minimal cleanup, while the combination of fresh salmon, aromatic vegetables, and herbs creates layers of flavor that taste like they’ve been simmering all day. The best part? You’ll get restaurant-quality results with basic pantry ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Base 1.5 pounds fresh salmon, cut into 2-inch chunks

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

For the Broth 4 cups fish or vegetable stock

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Seasonings Sea salt and freshly ground pepper

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Salmon Stew Recipes

1. Prepare the Base (10 minutes): Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until the onions become translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Build the Flavors (5 minutes): Pour in the stock, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Bring to a gentle simmer. Add bay leaves and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Add the Salmon (10 minutes): Once the broth is simmering, add the salmon chunks. Gently stir in the cream. Let it cook for 8-10 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through.

4. Finish and Serve (5 minutes): Remove bay leaves. Stir in fresh dill and parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Pro Tips for Perfect Southern Salmon Stew Recipe

Choose fresh salmon with firm, bright flesh.

Don’t overcook the salmon – it should be just opaque.

Use full-fat cream for the richest texture.

Add the herbs at the end to preserve their fresh flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cream from separating and the salmon from overcooking.

Common Questions About Salmon Stew Recipe

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?

A: Yes, but thaw it completely and pat dry before using.

Q: Is there a dairy-free option?

A: Replace cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative with equally delicious results.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: While best served fresh, you can prepare the base up to step 2 in advance and add the salmon and cream when ready to serve.

Perfect Pairings for Your Salmon Stew Recipes

Serve your salmon stew with:

Crusty sourdough bread for dipping

A crisp green salad

Steamed rice or quinoa

Roasted garlic bread

Nutritional Highlights of This Salmon Stew Recipe

This stew isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrition. Each serving provides:

High-quality protein from salmon

Omega-3 fatty acids for heart health

Essential vitamins and minerals

Approximately 380 calories per serving

About the Author

As a professional chef and recipe developer with over 20 years of experience, I’ve made it my mission to create recipes that combine restaurant-quality taste with home-kitchen simplicity. This salmon stew recipe represents everything I love about cooking – it’s nutritious, delicious, and brings people together.

Remember, the best recipes are the ones you make your own. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to your taste or try different vegetables based on what’s in season. I’d love to hear how this recipe works for you – share your experience in the comments below!