Salmon Patties

The beauty of these salmon patties lies in their simplicity and versatility. Made with pantry staples like canned salmon, breadcrumbs, and eggs, they come together in a flash, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. The addition of fresh herbs, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard adds a bright, zesty contrast to the savory richness of the fish, while a quick pan-fry delivers a golden, crispy crust that’s utterly irresistible.

Serve them as a main course with a fresh green salad, pop them into buns for salmon burgers, or break them up over rice or quinoa bowls for a lighter lunch. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, these salmon patties are a tasty and nutritious solution that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 (6 oz) cans of boneless, skinless salmon, drained

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, onion, mustard, lemon juice, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.

2. Shape the mixture into 6–8 evenly sized patties.

3. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.

4. Place the patties in the skillet, working in batches if necessary.

5. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Remove and set on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Serve hot with lemon wedges or a dollop of tartar sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 6 patties

All About Salmon Patties: A Savory Classic Reinvented

There are few dishes as versatile, satisfying, and surprisingly elegant as salmon patties. Whether you call them salmon cakes, croquettes, or fritters, these savory rounds have earned a well-deserved spot in kitchens around the world. Simple to make yet packed with flavor, they embody everything we love about comfort food; warmth, crispiness, and that nostalgic taste of home. But don’t let their humble ingredients fool you: salmon patties can be elevated into something truly special with just a few tweaks and fresh herbs.

This post dives deep into everything you need to know about salmon patties: their history, why they’re a great choice for weeknight dinners, how to customize them, and what to serve alongside to make your meal shine.

The Origins and Evolution of Salmon Patties

Salmon patties have long been a staple in American households, especially in Southern and coastal cuisines. Originally created as a budget-friendly way to feed families using pantry staples like canned salmon, breadcrumbs, and eggs, this dish was a smart solution to stretch protein while avoiding food waste. Over time, it gained popularity for its quick preparation and rich, savory flavor.

Today, salmon patties are enjoyed in countless variations across the globe from herbed versions in France to spicy renditions in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re working with fresh salmon leftovers or a trusty can of pink salmon, the base of the recipe remains the same: combine protein with binders, season generously, shape into patties, and pan-fry until golden and crisp.

Why Salmon Patties Are a Weeknight Hero

In our busy lives, it’s a blessing to have go-to meals that don’t require elaborate planning or grocery runs. Salmon patties check all the boxes: they’re quick, use accessible ingredients, and taste fantastic.

Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love them:

• Speed: From start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in 20 minutes.

• Minimal Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your pantry or fridge right now.

• Customizable: Add fresh herbs, veggies, spices, or sauces to suit your taste.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Cook a double batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.

• Great Texture: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfection in every bite.

Because they’re pan-fried, not deep-fried, salmon patties are also relatively light, especially when made with fresh ingredients and healthy oils. They also reheat beautifully in a toaster oven or skillet, making them ideal for make-ahead meals or lunchboxes.

The Secret to Perfect Salmon Patties

The key to great salmon patties lies in the balance of moisture, texture, and seasoning. You want them to hold together well without being dry or overly dense. Here are a few tips that elevate a basic patty into a gourmet treat:

1. Use High-Quality Salmon:
While canned salmon is convenient and economical, opt for wild-caught whenever possible. It has a deeper flavor and fewer additives. For an extra luxurious version, use freshly cooked salmon or leftover baked salmon.

2. Don’t Skip the Acid:
A splash of lemon juice or a spoonful of Dijon mustard can completely transform the dish. Acid adds brightness and contrast, making the rich flavor of the salmon pop.

3. Season Boldly:
Salmon can handle strong flavors. Dill, parsley, scallions, capers, and even Old Bay seasoning work beautifully. Don’t forget salt and pepper, they’re essential.

4. Control the Moisture:
If your mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If too dry, stir in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of milk. The right texture is one that binds but isn’t sticky or overly dense.

5. Pan-Fry for Crisp Edges:
Use a hot skillet and just enough oil to get those crispy golden edges. Don’t crowd the pan, and give the patties time to brown undisturbed.

How to Customize Your Salmon Patties

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can keep it simple or go gourmet with a few add-ins:

• Spicy Kick: Add minced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

• Cheesy Touch: Shredded Parmesan or feta adds depth and richness.

• Crunchy Bits: Finely diced celery, bell pepper, or corn bring texture and freshness.

• International Flair: Curry powder, ginger, or soy sauce can lend an Asian spin; cumin and cilantro offer a Mexican twist.

You can also switch up the binder. Instead of breadcrumbs, try crushed crackers, almond flour, or cooked quinoa for a gluten-free or low-carb alternative.

What to Serve with Salmon Patties

Salmon patties are versatile enough to go with a wide range of sides. Here are some serving ideas to inspire your next meal:

1. Classic Pairings:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes

• Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach

• Coleslaw or a crisp garden salad

2. Light & Fresh:

• Quinoa or couscous salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Grilled asparagus with garlic and olive oil

• Cucumber and dill yogurt sauce

3. On a Bun:
Turn your patties into gourmet salmon burgers! Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and tartar sauce or aioli, and sandwich between a toasted brioche bun.

4. In a Bowl:
Serve broken-up patties over a bed of brown rice, avocado slices, roasted veggies, and drizzle with a creamy dressing for a healthy grain bowl.

5. Dips and Sauces:
The right sauce takes salmon patties to the next level. Try one of these:

• Tartar sauce

• Lemon dill yogurt

• Garlic aioli

• Spicy remoulade

• Honey mustard

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond their taste and convenience, salmon patties are a healthy option packed with nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins. When combined with herbs and whole-grain binders, this dish supports heart health, brain function, and energy levels. Choosing olive oil for frying keeps the fat content heart-healthy, while added vegetables can boost the fiber and vitamin content.

For those on a budget, canned salmon is an affordable way to get those omega-3s without breaking the bank. It’s also shelf-stable, meaning you can stock up and have it ready whenever you need a quick meal.

Conclusion

Salmon patties are one of those timeless recipes that combine ease, nutrition, flavor, and versatility in a single skillet. Whether you grew up eating them or are discovering them for the first time, there’s something universally comforting about their golden crispiness and tender interior.

Perfect for weeknights, meal prepping, or entertaining, they adapt beautifully to different cuisines, dietary needs, and flavor profiles. With minimal ingredients and maximum payoff, these salmon patties might just become your new favorite go-to meal.

So, the next time you’re staring into your pantry wondering what to make, reach for that can of salmon, grab your herbs and spices, and start sizzling. Your future self will thank you, crispy edges and all.