Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of comforting, velvety seafood goodness, and that is exactly what the Creamy Salmon Soup (Fiskesuppe med Laks) Recipe delivers. This Norwegian-inspired dish is a delightful blend of tender salmon, fresh vegetables, and rich cream simmered to perfection in a fragrant fish stock. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for family or an impressive dish for friends, this soup enchants with its deep flavors and inviting textures, making it an instant favorite on any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board placed on a white marbled surface, filled with four layers of chopped vegetables arranged in neat lines: white sliced fennel on the left, thin orange carrot sticks next to it, bright green leek rings in the middle, and white slices of celery root at the bottom. Next to the board on the right side is an unpeeled carrot and two whole yellow lemons. In the bottom left corner lies a sharp knife with a wooden handle, resting on the surface with some small vegetable pieces near the blade. The overall scene is well lit with natural light, highlighting the fresh and colorful vegetables. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, color, and texture that culminate in a soup that tastes as good as it looks. Fresh vegetables add subtle sweetness and crunch, while the salmon offers a luscious, flaky centerpiece.

Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base for sautéing the vegetables, enhancing the soup’s overall flavor.
Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color, brightening both taste and appearance.
Fennel bulb: Contributes a delicate anise-like flavor that complements the seafood beautifully.
Parsnip: Offers a mild earthiness and smooth texture, balancing the sweetness of other vegetables.
Leek: Brings subtle onion notes that deepen the aromatic profile of the soup.
Fish stock: The foundation of flavor, creating a savory and umami-rich liquid for cooking.
Kvarøy Arctic salmon filet: A high-quality, fresh salmon providing tender, flaky chunks that melt in your mouth.
Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and smooths out the soup’s texture for that indulgent finish.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate the flavors.
Fresh dill or chives: Brighten the finished soup with herbaceous freshness and a pop of green.
Lemon wedges: Provide a zesty contrast that cuts through the richness and rounds out the dish.

How to Make Creamy Salmon Soup (Fiskesuppe med Laks) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the carrots, fennel, parsnip, and half of the leek. Sauté these vegetables gently for about 5 minutes until they soften but still retain some firmness. This step unlocks their natural flavors, forming the aromatic heart of your soup.

Step 2: Add Fish Stock and Simmer

Pour in the fish stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This fishy, savory liquid infuses the vegetables with depth and complexity. Let it bubble softly, allowing all those beautiful flavors to mingle and meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Add the salmon pieces to the simmering pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, just long enough for the salmon to turn opaque and flaky without drying out. The salmon’s tender texture is essential, so keep an eye to ensure it remains perfectly cooked and juicy.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Season

Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream, transforming your soup into a silky, rich delight. Season with salt and pepper to taste, balancing the flavors and enhancing the soup’s luxurious mouthfeel. This final touch makes the dish truly special.

How to Serve Creamy Salmon Soup (Fiskesuppe med Laks) Recipe

A close-up shot of creamy yellow soup in a white bowl with a slightly rough texture visible on the bowl’s edge. The soup has several layers: chunks of pale pink fish with visible soft texture, thin orange carrot sticks, and thinly sliced light green spirals of what looks like leek or onion floating on top. There is also a hint of green herbs partially submerged beneath the surface. A metal spoon scoops up a large piece of the pink fish, showing its tender, layered texture clearly. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top each bowl with the remaining sliced leek and sprinkle freshly chopped dill or chives for a fresh, vibrant contrast. These garnishes add color and a subtle oniony-herbal aroma, elevating each spoonful.

Side Dishes

Pair this comforting soup with crusty, rustic bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy goodness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness, providing a refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the soup in elegant white bowls and add a lemon wedge on the side for an interactive burst of citrus flavor. You can also drizzle a touch of flavored oil, such as dill or lemon olive oil, on top to add an extra layer of aroma and sophistication.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making your next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

Because of the cream, freezing cream-based soups can sometimes alter the texture. If you want to freeze this soup, consider leaving out the cream and adding it fresh when reheating to maintain that perfect silky texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a splash of stock or cream to revive its creamy consistency. Avoid boiling to keep the salmon tender and the cream smooth.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Absolutely! While salmon is traditional and offers wonderful richness, you can substitute with cod, haddock, or even a firm white fish to suit your preference.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. This changes the flavor slightly but still produces a creamy and satisfying soup.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

The entire process from prep to table takes about 30 to 40 minutes, making it an ideal recipe for a quick yet impressive meal.

What kind of fish stock should I use?

Homemade fish stock is best for flavor depth, but a good-quality store-bought fish or seafood stock works well, too. Avoid using vegetable stock to maintain the authentic taste.

Can I add potatoes or other vegetables?

Yes! Diced potatoes or celery root can be added for extra heartiness without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors.

Final Thoughts

There is something so satisfying about cradling a warm bowl of Creamy Salmon Soup (Fiskesuppe med Laks) Recipe, especially knowing it was made with simple, fresh ingredients and a little love. This dish brings heartiness and freshness together in a way that’s both nourishing and elegant. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making this soup—once you do, it might just become your go-to comfort food for chilly evenings and special occasions alike.