Salmon Patties Recipe

Crispy Golden Salmon Patties Recipe: A Family Favorite

Seafood enthusiasts adore these crispy salmon patties that blend tender fish with zesty seasonings.

A classic salmon patties recipe brings comfort and nostalgia to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Fresh salmon transforms into golden, delectable medallions that crackle when you bite into them.

The simple ingredients create a meal packed with protein and flavor that comes together in minutes.

Each patty offers a perfect balance of flaky fish and herbs, promising a delightful culinary experience.

These patties work wonderfully as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

You’ll want to savor every delicious bite of this maritime-inspired dish.

What Makes These Salmon Patties So Satisfying

  • Enjoy the flexibility of frying or baking these patties, catering to different cooking preferences and kitchen setups.
  • Leverage the protein-rich salmon and fresh herbs to create a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal that's both tasty and good for you.
  • Transform affordable canned salmon into a gourmet-like dish that impresses family and friends without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Easy Salmon Patties

Protein Base:
  • Canned Salmon: A convenient and flavorful fish protein that provides the main structure for the patties.
Main Binding Ingredients:
  • Egg: Helps bind the patties together and adds richness to the mixture.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs, Breadcrumbs: Provide additional structure and help absorb moisture in the patty mixture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle tangy and sharp flavor to the salmon patties.
  • Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Brightens the overall taste and adds a fresh citrusy note to the dish.
  • Parsley, Green Onions: Contribute a fresh, herbal quality and subtle onion flavor to the patties.
Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the salmon patties.
Cooking Fat:
  • Olive Oil: Used for frying the patties and provides a light, neutral cooking medium.

Instructions for Cooking Golden Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prep The Salmon

Drain canned salmon completely using a fine-mesh strainer.

Transfer salmon to a mixing bowl and break it apart using a fork.

Carefully remove any visible bones.

Mash the salmon until it reaches a consistent texture.

Step 2: Create Flavor Blend

Combine ingredients in the salmon bowl:
  • Beaten egg
  • Mustard powder
  • Lemon zest
  • Lemon juice
  • Chopped parsley
  • Sliced green onions
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Gently mix until ingredients are evenly distributed.

Check mixture’s consistency – it should hold together when pressed.

If mixture seems too wet, sprinkle in panko breadcrumbs to help bind.

Step 3: Form Perfect Patties

Divide salmon mixture into four equal portions.

Shape each portion into round patties approximately half-inch thick.

Pro tip: Slightly dampen hands with water to prevent mixture from sticking.

Step 4: Cook Golden Patties

Choose your cooking method:

Stovetop Option: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.

Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Oven Option: Preheat oven to 375°F.

Place patties on parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake 10-15 minutes, flipping midway for even browning.

Tips for Crispy Outside and Tender Inside

  • Remove excess moisture completely to prevent soggy patties and ensure a crispy exterior.
  • Carefully pick out larger bones, but don't stress about tiny ones – they're edible and packed with calcium.
  • If the mixture seems too wet, sprinkle in panko or breadcrumbs to help patties hold their shape perfectly.
  • Slightly dampen your hands before shaping patties to prevent the mixture from sticking and create smooth, even patties.
  • Use medium-low heat when frying and avoid aggressive flipping to keep delicate salmon patties intact and golden-brown.

How to Save and Reheat Salmon Patties

  • Store salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual patties tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
  • Place patty on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30-45 seconds, checking temperature to avoid overcooking.
  • Warm a small amount of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Cook patties for 2-3 minutes per side until heated through and crispy on the outside.

Sides That Match Salmon Patties Perfectly

  • Pair with Crisp Citrus Salad: Toss together mixed greens, segmented oranges, and thinly sliced fennel to complement the salmon's richness and echo the lemon notes in the patties.
  • Match with Zesty White Wine: Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the patties' richness and enhances the herbal and citrus undertones.
  • Serve with Creamy Dill Sauce: Blend Greek yogurt, fresh dill, minced garlic, and a splash of lemon juice to create a tangy, cool accompaniment that elevates the salmon's flavor profile.
  • Add Crunchy Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crisp-tender, providing a perfect textural contrast to the soft salmon patties.

Ways to Change Up the Salmon Patty Mix

  • Gluten-Free Salmon Patties: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version. Use gluten-free mustard powder to ensure complete allergen safety.
  • Keto-Friendly Salmon Cakes: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or ground almond meal. Add extra herbs like dill or chives for enhanced flavor without increasing carbohydrates.
  • Low-Sodium Option: Eliminate added salt and use salt-free herb blends. Choose low-sodium canned salmon or fresh salmon as a replacement to reduce overall sodium content.
  • Mediterranean-Inspired Salmon Patties: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and fresh oregano. Replace lemon zest with za'atar seasoning for a Middle Eastern flavor profile.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

Yes, you can substitute fresh salmon. Cook and flake the salmon first, then follow the recipe as written. Make sure to remove skin and bones before flaking.

  • What can I use if I don't have mustard powder?

Regular Dijon mustard or yellow mustard works great as a substitute. Use about 1-2 teaspoons depending on your taste preference.

  • How do I know the patties are fully cooked?

The salmon patties should be golden brown on the outside and heated through. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. The patties will be firm to the touch and have a crispy exterior.

  • Is it necessary to remove salmon bones?

While salmon bones are edible and contain calcium, removing them ensures a smoother texture. Use a fork to carefully pick out any visible large bones before mixing the ingredients.

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Salmon Patties Recipe

Salmon Patties Recipe


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4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Irresistible Salmon Patties blend crispy exterior with tender, flaky fish for a delightful coastal-inspired meal. Delicate herbs and zesty seasonings elevate this classic dish, making each bite a celebration of maritime flavors you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 14.75 ounces (418 g) canned pink salmon, drained
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 finely chopped green onions
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Ingredient:

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil

Serving:

  • 4 lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly drain canned salmon, eliminating excess moisture to prevent soggy texture. Remove and discard any visible bones, then gently flake fish using a fork in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Incorporate beaten egg, mustard powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, sliced green onions, salt, and pepper into salmon. Mix carefully until ingredients are evenly distributed. Ensure mixture holds together when pressed; add breadcrumbs if mixture appears too loose.
  3. Divide salmon mixture into four equal portions. Using slightly dampened hands, form patties approximately ½ inch thick, compacting edges to maintain structural integrity.
  4. For pan-frying, heat olive oil in skillet over medium-low heat (around 350°F). Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, turning carefully to prevent breaking. Alternatively, bake patties at 375°F on parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, rotating midway through cooking time to ensure even browning.

Notes

  • Draining is key to preventing soggy patties, so press out excess moisture from canned salmon thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer or paper towels.
  • Remove small bones carefully, as they’re edible but can create an unexpected texture that might surprise some diners.
  • For gluten-free version, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour to maintain the binding properties.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 303
  • Sugar: 0.4 g
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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