Savory Salmon Loaf

Drain salmon; reserving 1/3 cup liquid; set aside.

Remove skin and bones from salmon, if desired; flake salmon with a fork.

Brown 1 1/2 cups cracker crumbs in 1/4 cup butter in a large skillet; set mixture aside.

Combine salmon, reserved liquid, remaining 1/2 cup unbrowned cracker crumbs, eggs and the next 10 ingredients. Sprinkle 1/4 cup browned cracker crumbs in center of a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.

Shape salmon mixture into a 9-inch loaf and place on top of crumbs.

Press remaining browned cracker crumbs on top and sides of loaf.

Arrange bacon slices diagonally across loaf. Bake at 350° for 55 to 60 minutes, covering loosely with foil the last 15 minutes, if crumbs brown too quickly.

Serve with Cucumber Cream Sauce.