Can You Freeze Trader Joe’s Salmon? A Guide to Proper Storage

Trader Joe’s is a go-to destination for quality groceries at a great value. Their seafood selection, including fresh salmon fillets, is no exception. Salmon is not only delicious, but packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. However, fresh salmon is perishable and has a short shelf life. This leads many Trader Joe’s shoppers to wonder – can you freeze their salmon to extend its life?

The good news is that yes, you can absolutely freeze Trader Joe’s salmon. In fact, freezing is an ideal way to store salmon long-term while maintaining quality. Here is a comprehensive guide to freezing Trader Joe’s salmon, including storage times, proper methods, thawing and more.

How Long Can Trader Joe’s Fresh Salmon Be Stored?

According to the USDA, fresh raw salmon that has been continuously refrigerated can be safely stored for up to 2 days. After that point, quality starts to decline.

For cooked salmon, refrigerate for up to 4 days maximum after cooking Always check for signs of spoilage before eating, even within these time frames

Freezing Extends the Shelf Life

Freezing allows you to store Trader Joe’s fresh salmon much longer term than refrigeration. According to USDA guidelines:

• Raw salmon fillets can be frozen for up to 8 months while maintaining quality.

• Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 4 months,

For best flavor and texture, aim to eat frozen salmon within 2-3 months if possible. Portion the salmon into meal-sized pieces before freezing to make thawing and cooking more convenient.

Can Previously Frozen Salmon Be Re-Frozen?

Trader Joe’s salmon is “once frozen” meaning it has been previously flash frozen right at the source for freshness, Fish that has been frozen only once maintains quality well when thawed

However, salmon that has been frozen, thawed, then refrozen tends to suffer more degradation in texture and moisture loss. For best results, avoid refreezing any salmon that has been frozen before. Only freeze Trader Joe’s salmon that is labeled as fresh, not previously frozen.

Proper Ways to Freeze Trader Joe’s Salmon

To freeze Trader Joe’s salmon:

• Seal the original package or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This prevents freezer burn which dries out the fish.

• Place inside a freezer bag or airtight container for added protection.

• Remove as much air as possible from packaging before sealing.

• Label package with name of fish and freeze date.

• Freeze quickly at 0°F or below. Use the coldest section of your freezer.

• Once frozen, packages can be stacked or stored flat.

Following these steps traps moisture and blocks air flow to retain freshness long-term.

Thawing Frozen Salmon from Trader Joe’s

Always thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator or under cold running water:

• Fridge thawing: Place frozen package in fridge 1-2 days before use. This gently “defrosts” the salmon.

• Cold water method: Seal salmon in a bag then submerge in cold water, changing water every 30 mins. Takes about 1-2 hours for a 1 lb package.

Do not thaw at room temperature or in hot water. This puts the fish in the “danger zone” for bacterial growth. Microwave thawing is also not recommended as it cooks the outer layer while the inside remains frozen.

Check for any unpleasant odors and discard if salmon has an off smell or color after thawing.

Cooking Previously Frozen Salmon

Frozen salmon is best baked, grilled, or pan seared after thawing. Prepare as you normally would when cooking fresh salmon.

• Baked: Bake at 400°F for 10-15 mins depending on thickness.

• Grilled: Get grill hot, and cook skin-side down first. Flip once. Cook to 145°F.

• Pan sear: Heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook presentation side down until browned. Flip and finish cooking.

Cook frozen salmon thoroughly to 145°F internal temperature. Frozen salmon takes a bit longer to cook through than fresh.

Allow extra marinating time for seasoning to penetrate after thawing. Brining helps keep the salmon moist as well.

Storing Thawed Salmon

Only thaw out the amount of frozen salmon that you plan to cook and eat within a couple days.

Store thawed salmon wrapped in the refrigerator and use within:

• Raw thawed salmon: 1-2 days

• Cooked thawed salmon: 3-4 days

Do not refreeze thawed salmon. Refreezing causes more cellular breakdown, resulting in mushier texture.

Freezing Trader Joe’s Salmon is Safe and Convenient

When stored properly in the freezer, Trader Joe’s salmon retains its freshness remarkably well. Freezing stops bacteria growth that causes fish to spoil quickly at fridge temperatures. With proper thawing and cooking, frozen salmon tastes very close to fresh. Freezing lets you enjoy delicious Trader Joe’s salmon year-round. Follow these guidelines for storing, thawing and cooking frozen salmon from Trader Joe’s.