Salmon Patties Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly flavorful, Salmon Patties are about to become your kitchen hero. These crisp-edged golden beauties offer the perfect union of flaky, tender salmon with zesty lemon and fresh green herbs, all pan-fried or oven-baked for an easy weeknight meal. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a make-ahead meal, Salmon Patties rise to every occasion with their unbeatable taste and simplicity.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of ingredients to create Salmon Patties that deliver on flavor and texture. Each component brings something special to the table, creating a harmony you can taste and see in every bite:

• Olive oil: Gives the patties a crisp, golden crust and keeps them from sticking.
• Canned pink salmon: The star of the show, offering a rich, flaky foundation with all the savory seafood flavor you crave.
• Mustard powder: Adds depth and a gentle tang that wakes up the salmon.
• Lemon zest: Brightens every bite with citrusy freshness.
• Lemon juice: Balances the richness of the fish and ties together the herbs and spices.
• Fresh parsley: Brings a pop of green and a subtle, grassy note that lifts the whole dish.
• Green onions: Add a gentle oniony crunch without overpowering.
• Egg: Binds everything together so your patties stay intact while cooking.
• Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors forward.
• Ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the taste.
• Lemon wedges: The final touch for serving, letting everyone enjoy a squeeze of extra brightness.

How to Make Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by thoroughly draining your canned salmon, ensuring there’s no excess liquid that might make the mixture too wet. Remove any large or visible bones (they’re soft and edible, but not everyone loves the surprise) and then mash the salmon in a large bowl using a fork. You’re aiming for a nice, shreddable texture rather than a puree—this gives your Salmon Patties that satisfying, hearty feel.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Add the beaten egg, mustard powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, green onions, salt, and pepper to the bowl with your mashed salmon. Gently mix everything together until just combined. You want the mixture to hold together but still see strands of salmon and flecks of herbs—don’t overwork it!

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four even portions and shape each one into a patty, about ¾-inch thick. If the mixture feels too sticky, wet your hands slightly or chill it for a few minutes. Having well-formed patties at this stage makes for easier cooking and beautiful presentation later on.

Step 4: Shallow Fry the Salmon Patties

Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-low heat. Once hot, carefully add the patties. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each patty is deep golden and heated through. The edges should be crispy and inviting, with a soft, steamy interior.

Step 5: (Alternative) Oven-Bake the Salmon Patties

If you’d rather skip the frying, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the formed patties onto a parchment-lined sheet pan, brush or spritz with a bit of oil, and bake for 10–15 minutes. Flip them halfway so each side crisps up beautifully and the Salmon Patties are warmed right to the center. This method is fantastic for making a big batch all at once!

How to Serve Salmon Patties

Garnishes

Salmon Patties beg for a little flourish on top. A squeeze of lemon from the provided lemon wedges adds zing, while some extra chopped parsley offers color and freshness. If you love a touch of creamy sharpness, a dollop of tartar sauce or herbed Greek yogurt is heavenly.

Side Dishes

Make your plate pop by serving Salmon Patties alongside simple roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even a fluffy heap of rice pilaf. For a lighter touch, try coleslaw drizzled with vinaigrette or steamed asparagus tossed with olive oil and herbs.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the plate: tuck Salmon Patties into a crusty bun with lettuce and tomato for a fish burger, slice them and add to a grain bowl, or crumble into warm tortillas for salmon tacos. The versatility means they’re just as perfect at a picnic as they are plated at your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Salmon Patties, let them cool to room temperature first. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separating layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—ready for a quick meal or snack!

Freezing

To freeze, lay cooked Salmon Patties on a lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. This way, they won’t stick together and you can grab just what you need. They’re at their best within 2 months, making for an excellent meal prep option.

Reheating

For crispy results, reheat Salmon Patties in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or pop them in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes. Microwaving is fine in a pinch, though the exterior won’t be as crisp. Either way, they’ll be just as tasty as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just cook and flake your salmon first, letting it cool before mixing with the other ingredients. Fresh salmon offers a slightly different texture and flavor, but it works perfectly well in these Salmon Patties.

What can I use instead of mustard powder?

If you don’t have mustard powder handy, a teaspoon of Dijon or yellow mustard will do the trick, adding that subtle tang and depth to your patties.

Do Salmon Patties hold together without breadcrumbs?

Yes! The egg acts as a binder, and the mashed salmon’s natural texture helps everything stick. If you find your mixture isn’t holding, chilling it for 10–15 minutes before shaping will make things easier.

Can I make these Salmon Patties dairy-free?

Definitely—this recipe is naturally dairy-free as written. If you want to use a dipping sauce, just choose a dairy-free option like mustard, homemade mayo, or vinaigrette-based sauces.

How do I keep Salmon Patties from falling apart?

The key is draining your salmon thoroughly and mixing everything gently but well. Don’t skip the egg, and be sure to shape firm, compact patties. Cooling them for a few minutes before cooking also helps them set up beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Patties are a true celebration of simple, honest ingredients coming together to create something special. If you give this recipe a whirl, you’ll find it’s a joyful addition to your meal routine, full of fresh flavors and satisfying textures every time. Dive in and discover your new go-to dish!

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