Savory Mini Canned Salmon Tarts (Picnic Food)

These savory mini canned salmon tarts are among my favorite things to bring to potlucks and picnics. They’re flaky, rich, and flavorful—think buttery pastry shells filled with a tender, peppery salmon mixture made from pink sockeye salmon, grated carrot, fresh herbs, and egg. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh dill on top takes them from simple to stunning. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead picnic snack or an easy appetizer that feels fancy without the fuss, these salmon tartlets deliver.

I first made these as a fridge cleanout project—one of those late-afternoon kitchen experiments when you’ve got a pack of frozen mini tart shells and a can of salmon calling your name. I mixed in some grated carrots for moisture and color, tossed in flat-leaf parsley for freshness, and baked them on a parchment-lined baking sheet until golden brown. What came out of the oven were twelve little flavor bombs that disappeared almost instantly. Since then, they’ve become regulars in our summer rotation.

These savory tartlets can be chilled or warmed, travel beautifully in an airtight container, and feel special enough for events. You can make them ahead, freeze them, and reheat them before serving. These tartlets are as practical as they are pretty.

If you’re looking for another party-ready salmon idea, check out my salmon loaf also a vintage recipe with tasty dijon dill sauce—they’re another easy win for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love These Savory Salmon Tarts

​Simple store-bought shortcut. No need to make dough from scratch—frozen mini tart shells save time and bake up beautifully golden brown.

Canned salmon magic. Pink sockeye canned salmon adds rich flavor, healthy fats, and protein while keeping the recipe affordable and pantry-friendly.

Picnic-perfect. These salmon tartlets hold up well in a cooler, taste great at room temp, and pair beautifully with fresh fruit or a green salad.

A Quick Note on Canadian Salmon and Its Role in Our Kitchens.

​Canned salmon, especially pink sockeye, is more than just a pantry staple in Canada — it reflects our coastal heritage and long-standing fishing traditions. The salmon fishery has played a vital role in the economy and culture of coastal communities, particularly in British Columbia, where Pacific salmon runs have sustained Indigenous peoples for thousands of years.

Wild salmon were smoked, dried, or salted for preservation and canned in the late 1800s when the canning industry boomed along the Fraser River. Canning allowed the fish to travel inland and become a year-round protein source in households far from the coast.

Canned salmon became a humble hero in many Canadian kitchens—especially during lean times. It was folded into fish cakes, creamed for toast, stuffed into buns, or stretched into casseroles. Its accessibility, long shelf life, and high nutrient content made it a go-to ingredient for home cooks looking to feed a family on a budget.

This recipe is a slight nod to that history. It honors the practicality of canned salmon while making it picnic-worthy and modern.

Let’s Make These Mini Salmon Tartlets

​Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Arrange your frozen mini tart shells—still in their aluminum pie tins—on a parchment-lined baking sheet or nest them into the cups of a muffin tin. The baking sheet offers easy cleanup, while a muffin tin provides extra support to keep the tart shells stable as they bake.

Drain your canned pink sockeye salmon thoroughly and use a fork to flake it apart. Take a moment to pick out any bones or bits of skin. While the soft bones in canned salmon are edible, they can be off-putting in a delicate tart.

In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon with ½ cup grated carrot, ¼ cup finely sliced green onion, 2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley, 1 egg, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until well combined. The egg will help bind the mixture, while the vegetables add flavor, moisture, and color.

Spoon the salmon mixture evenly into the tart shells, filling each just to the top. Avoid overfilling so the mixture doesn’t spill over as it puffs during baking.

Bake on the center rack for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are set and lightly golden brown. When done, the filling should look drier and feel firm to the touch.

Let the tartlets cool for 5–10 minutes before removing them from the baking tray or muffin tin. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Before serving, top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a fresh or dried dill sprinkle.

Ingredients:

Note to my Canadian readers: You’re not alone if you’re sourcing these ingredients without relying on U.S.-based imports. Given our country’s current challenges, supporting Canadian-owned businesses and Canadian-made products matters more than ever. Every little bit helps keep our food systems strong, our neighbors employed, and our dollars in our communities.

You will now find more Canadian content on the blog as I continue to source Canadian food brands and products.

And to our American friends—we still love you! We always have and will. But when possible, we’re leaning toward local to keep our shelves stocked and our people supported.

Frozen mini tart shells: These pre-made shells save time and effort while delivering a crisp, buttery base—perfect for holding a rich, savory filling. I simply used No Name premade frozen tart shells as they are safe bet for quality and price point while also being very Canadian. You can use homemade dough or any brand so long as they are on the smaller size.

Canned pink sockeye salmon: A pantry staple that brings bold flavor, healthy fats, and an economical alternative to fresh fish without sacrificing quality.

Grated carrot: Adds subtle sweetness, moisture, and a pop of color to balance the richness of the salmon and egg. Be sure to purchase your carrots at your local farmer’s market whenever possible.

Green Onion: Brings a gentle sharpness and fresh flavor, enhancing the overall filling.

Egg: The egg acts as a binder to hold the salmon mixture together as it bakes, helping the filling appropriately set in the shells. Check your area for local egg farmers for best fresh eggs.

Flat-leaf parsley: Brings freshness and a mild herbaceous note that brightens the flavor.

Black pepper: Enhances the salmon’s natural flavor and adds gentle heat without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): A creamy, tangy topping that pairs beautifully with salmon and adds a cooling finish when served. Our favorite brand is Oikos for it’s rich creamy flavor selection.

Fresh dillweed: Adds a classic herby finish that complements the salmon and the dairy topping, making each bite feel complete.

Substitutions And Add-Ins For This Incredibly Simple Salmon Tartlet Recipe.

Mini tart shells: If preferred, use full-size tart shells, gluten-free tart shells, or homemade dough pressed into mini muffin tins. Phyllo shells also work for a lighter, crispier alternative.

Canned pink sockeye salmon: Substitute leftover salmon fillets or canned tuna if needed. Tuna offers a different flavor but still works well in the filling.

Grated carrot: Swap with grated zucchini for a similar texture and moisture content—just be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid. Finely chopped bell pepper also works for a different flavor twist.

Green onion: Can be replaced with finely chopped red onion, shallots, or chives. 

Egg: -Remains-

Flat-leaf parsley: For a similar burst of color and herbaceous flavor, use chopped dill, green onions, or chives. Dried herbs also work in a pinch—use half as much.

Black pepper: For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.

Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Depending on your ingredients, you can use either one interchangeably or try a dairy-free yogurt for a lactose-free topping.

Fresh dill: Dried dillweed works as a convenient backup. Alternatively, fresh tarragon or basil can add a unique herbal finish.

Want to bulk up the filling or tweak the flavor next time? These mini salmon tartlets are easy to customize with whatever’s in your fridge:

Green peas: To add sweetness and color, add a few spoonfuls of thawed frozen peas to the salmon mixture.

Shredded cheese: A little grated cheddar, Havarti, or feta melts into the filling and adds richness.

Lemon zest: Stir in half a teaspoon for a bright, citrusy lift that complements the salmon beautifully.

Capers: A few chopped capers can elevate the savory profile if you love briny flavors.

Leftover herbs: Toss in small amounts of fresh herbs—basil, tarragon, or chervil all work well.

Remember that the filling shouldn’t be too wet, so stick to low-moisture add-ins and avoid overloading the shells.

Expert Tips, Serving And Storing Suggestions For The Salmon Tarts:

Tip #1: Flake the salmon thoroughly. Breaking it up well ensures the filling stays cohesive and bakes evenly without large chunks disrupting the texture.

Tip #2: Don’t skip the preheat. Starting with a fully heated oven helps the tart shells crisp up and the egg in the salmon mixture set correctly without becoming rubbery.

Tip #3: Use a baking sheet for stability. Even if your tart shells come in a foil tray, transferring them to a flat baking sheet helps them cook evenly and makes it easier to remove them from the oven without spilling.

Serve these savory salmon tarts slightly warm or thoroughly chilled, depending on your preference. They’re great on a picnic platter alongside crisp veggies, crackers, or a light salad. A small spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt with fresh dill on top adds a cool, creamy contrast that makes them feel extra special.

To store, let the tarts cool completely and place them in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to three days. They also freeze well in a single layer until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to one month. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through.

Did you make these savory mini canned salmon tarts? I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Leave a star rating and comment below to share your thoughts—especially if you added fun twists like peas, onions, or herbs from your garden. Your feedback helps other readers and brings a smile to my day.