Indulge in the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness with these incredibly delicious Salmon Patties. Crafted from either convenient canned salmon or delectable leftover baked salmon, these savory seafood cakes are infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh lemon, fragrant dill, and pungent garlic. Easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-plepleaser, they make for a fantastic main course or a delightful appetizer!
Transforming simple ingredients into culinary magic, these salmon patties are a testament to versatile cooking. Whether you’re aiming to utilize leftover salmon from foil packets or elevate a humble can of salmon, this recipe offers a fresh and exciting meal solution. Served wonderfully with a creamy Roasted Garlic Aioli, these patties are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Patties Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal, these salmon patties are your answer. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of salmon in a new and exciting form. These patties are:
- Versatile: Made with either canned or fresh salmon, perfect for pantry staples or leftovers.
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cook time make this an ideal weeknight dinner.
- Crispy & Flaky: Achieve a delightful texture that’s golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Flavorful: A bright combination of lemon, dill, and garlic elevates the natural taste of salmon.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters often enjoy these mild and savory cakes.
- Budget-Friendly: Canned salmon provides an economical option without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Don’t let leftover salmon go to waste! This recipe is designed to give it a second life, transforming it into a brand-new, equally delicious meal or appetizer. They’re savory, pan-fried to perfection, and pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and dipping sauces.
Choosing Your Salmon: Canned vs. Fresh
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can achieve fantastic results with both canned and fresh salmon, each offering its own unique advantages.
Using Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is a true pantry hero. It’s affordable, convenient, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids. When using canned salmon, opt for high-quality varieties, preferably wild-caught. Ensure you drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making your patties soggy. You can choose boneless, skinless salmon for ease, or use varieties with bones and skin (which are edible and add calcium!) if you prefer, simply flaking the flesh away from any large bones or tough skin.
Using Fresh or Leftover Baked Salmon
If you prefer using fresh salmon, baking or poaching fillets in advance works best. To prevent your fresh salmon from drying out, consider baking it in foil packets. This method locks in moisture, resulting in perfectly tender, flaky fish. Once cooked, allow the salmon to cool completely before flaking it with a fork. If you’re using leftovers from a seasoned recipe like my Salmon Foil Packets, you might want to adjust the amount of added garlic and salt in this patty recipe, as your salmon will likely already be well-seasoned.
No matter which type of salmon you choose, the key is to ensure it’s well-drained and flaked before mixing with the other ingredients. This provides the ideal texture and ensures the flavors meld together beautifully.
Key Ingredients for Flavorful Salmon Patties
The magic of these salmon patties comes from a simple yet powerful combination of ingredients that enhance salmon’s natural richness without overpowering it.
- Salmon: The star of the show. As discussed, canned or leftover roasted salmon both work wonderfully. One 14.75-ounce can of salmon, thoroughly drained, is typically sufficient.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers the best aroma and flavor. If you’re short on time, jarred minced garlic is a convenient alternative. It adds a crucial savory depth.
- Onion: Finely chopped yellow onion provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base. Make sure it’s chopped finely so it integrates well into the patties. Shallots or green onions can also be used for a milder flavor.
- Lemon Zest: This ingredient is a game-changer! Lemon zest provides a bright, fresh, and zesty lift that perfectly complements seafood. Don’t skip it.
- Large Egg: Acts as a binding agent, holding all the ingredients together and preventing the patties from crumbling during cooking.
- Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs are used here to help bind the mixture and create a crispy exterior. Italian-style breadcrumbs can also be used for added seasoning. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors. Adjust to your personal taste.
- Dill: Dried or fresh dill pairs exquisitely with salmon. Fresh dill will offer a more vibrant, aromatic taste, while dried dill is a convenient pantry staple.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salmon Patties
Creating these crispy, flaky salmon patties is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.
- Prepare the Salmon: If using oven-baked salmon, ensure it’s completely cooled before flaking it with a fork into a large mixing bowl. If you opt for canned salmon, drain it exceptionally well to avoid excess moisture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients & Seasonings: To the flaked salmon, add your minced garlic, finely chopped onion, bright lemon zest, salt, pepper, and fragrant dill. Crack in the large egg. Mix all these ingredients thoroughly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the patties tough.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Gradually incorporate the breadcrumbs into the salmon mixture. Start with the recommended amount and add more if the mixture feels too wet to hold its shape. The goal is a consistency that is firm enough to form patties without being overly dry.
- Shape the Patties: Scoop about ¼ cup of the salmon mixture for each patty. Gently shape them into uniform discs, approximately 1-inch thick. If the mixture is sticky, lightly moisten your hands with water.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat a combination of olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. The butter adds richness and helps with browning, while the oil prevents burning. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the patties.
- Pan-Fry to Perfection: Carefully place the shaped patties into the hot skillet. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust and are heated through. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and lead to less crispy patties. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve your salmon patties hot off the pan.
Expert Tips for the Best Salmon Patties
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough patties. Mix until just combined.
- Proper Drainage: Whether canned or fresh, excess moisture is the enemy of crispy patties. Ensure your salmon is well-drained. For canned salmon, press it with a fork in a sieve.
- Consistency is Key: The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape but not dry. Adjust breadcrumbs if needed. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, a tiny bit more egg or a splash of milk can help.
- Even Thickness: Shape patties to a uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Preheat Your Pan: A properly heated pan is crucial for achieving that desirable golden, crispy exterior.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give each patty space in the pan to cook properly and brown evenly.
Can I Freeze Salmon Patties? Absolutely!
These salmon patties are excellent for meal prepping and can be easily frozen for future enjoyment. Here’s how:
- Cook and Cool: First, cook the patties according to the instructions and let them cool completely to room temperature. This prevents ice crystals from forming and affecting texture.
- Flash Freeze: Arrange the cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the patties are solid. This “flash freezing” step prevents them from sticking together.
- Store: Once frozen solid, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.
- Freeze Duration: They can be safely frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thaw and Reheat: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven, or even in an air fryer until warmed through and crispy again.
What to Serve with Your Delicious Salmon Patties
Salmon patties are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide array of side dishes and sauces. For a complete and balanced meal, consider these options:
- Fresh Vegetables: As seen in the photo, steamed broccoli is a classic choice. Other excellent options include roasted asparagus, vibrant green beans, or tender sautéed spinach.
- Crisp Salads: A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette or a more substantial Greek Salmon Salad (though using fresh salmon for that one!) would be refreshing.
- Grains and Starches: Serve alongside fluffy rice, quinoa, couscous, or even a light potato salad for a more filling meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Don’t forget a delicious sauce to complement the patties! My homemade Garlic Aioli or a classic tartar sauce are perfect choices. A simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice also works wonders.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon
Beyond being delicious, salmon patties offer significant nutritional value. Salmon is renowned for being a rich source of:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
- High-Quality Protein: Crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Including Vitamin D, B vitamins (B6, B12), selenium, and potassium, all vital for various bodily processes.
These patties provide a fantastic way to incorporate more seafood into your diet in a flavorful and accessible format.
More Delicious Salmon Recipes to Explore
If you love salmon as much as we do, you’ll want to try these other fantastic recipes:
- Greek Salmon Salad: A refreshing and healthy salad packed with Mediterranean flavors.
- Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon (oven-baked or air fried): For a crispy, cheesy crust that’s utterly irresistible.
- Baked Teriyaki Salmon: A sweet and savory delight, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Embrace the versatility of salmon and discover new favorite ways to enjoy this incredible fish!
We hope you enjoy this easy and delicious Salmon Patties recipe! If you make it, we’d love to see your creation. Snap a photo and share it on INSTAGRAM! Don’t forget to tag us @crunchycreamysweet so we can admire your culinary skills and leave a comment!
Salmon Patties
Author: Anna
These Salmon Patties are deliciously flavored with lemon, dill, and garlic. These easy seafood cakes are crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside! You can use canned salmon or leftover roasted salmon.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 4 votes
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked salmon (see note below)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried dill
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- If you are using oven-baked salmon, make sure to cool it completely. Flake it with a fork and place in a large bowl. If using canned salmon, make sure to drain it well. (1 cup cooked salmon)
- Add garlic, onion, and lemon zest. Add salt, pepper, dill, and egg. Mix everything together until well combined. (2 teaspoons minced garlic, 3 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion, 2 teaspoons lemon zest, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried dill, 1 large egg)
- Add breadcrumbs and mix well. The mixture should be firm enough to shape. (½ cup breadcrumbs)
- Scoop ¼ cup of mixture and shape into patties, about 1-inch thick.
- Heat up olive oil and unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. (1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter)
- Fry each patty for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and heated through. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides and dipping sauce.
Notes
- To bake fresh salmon, follow a simple method like salmon foil packets, ensuring the salmon is moist and flaky. If using canned salmon, one 14.75-ounce can, thoroughly drained, works perfectly.
- Please note that the nutrition value can vary depending on the specific products you use. The information provided below is an estimate. Always use a calorie counter you are familiar with for precise values.
Nutrition
Calories: 180 kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 421mg | Potassium: 219mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 160IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg
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