From the book Best Recipes from the backs of bottles, boxes, cans and jars.

.IngredientsFor the Loaf

• 425 g (15 oz) can salmon or mackerel, drained and flaked
• 183 g (½ cup + 2 tablespoons) dry bread crumbs*
• 125 ml (½ cup) mayonnaise
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large egg, beaten

For the Cucumber Sauce

• 125 ml (½ cup) mayonnaise
• 125 ml (½ cup) sour cream*
• ½ cucumber, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 5 ml (1 teaspoon) dried dill weed (or 15 ml fresh dill)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Notes:
*For a gluten-free version, substitute half or all of the bread crumbs with rice crumbs or gluten-free panko.
*No sour cream? Use an extra 125 ml mayonnaise + a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F / Gas 4). Lightly grease a 23 x 13 cm (9 x 5 inch) loaf pan.
2. Mix the loaf: In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon or mackerel, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, chopped onion, celery, red pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
3. Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–45 minutes, until golden and firm to the touch.
4. Make the cucumber sauce: While the loaf bakes, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, finely chopped cucumber, onion, and dill. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce sit so the flavors can meld.
5. Serve: Allow the loaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with a generous spoonful of cucumber sauce on top or on the side.

Serving Suggestions

• With steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
• Alongside a fresh green salad
• With mashed potatoes or rice
• Great for leftovers — delicious cold in sandwiches the next day

Pro Tips

• Drain the canned fish well and remove any large bones for the best texture.
• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a dash of hot sauce to the loaf mixture.
• The cucumber sauce tastes even better when made ahead and refrigerated for an hour.
• This recipe doubles beautifully for a crowd.

This timeless Salmon or Mackerel Loaf with Cucumber Sauce is proof that simple pantry ingredients can create a comforting, flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy.Enjoy!