Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties are a delightful and versatile dish that brings together flavor and convenience. These patties are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making them a go-to option for any meal. With the use of canned salmon, they come together quickly without sacrificing taste. Enjoy these delicious Salmon Patties as an appetizer, main course, or even in a sandwich – their unique qualities will surely impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: These patties can be made in just 35 minutes, making them an ideal choice for a last-minute dinner.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon zest, mustard powder, and fresh herbs creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, in a salad, or as part of a sandwich; they fit any meal occasion seamlessly.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the salmon and eggs, these patties make for a wholesome meal option.
- Kid-Friendly Appeal: Their fun shape and delicious taste make them a hit with children as well!
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Salmon Patties, having the right tools makes all the difference. Below is a list of essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork
- Frying Pan
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Fork: Ideal for mashing the salmon and mixing ingredients uniformly.
- Frying Pan: A non-stick frying pan ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Spatula: Perfect for flipping patties without breaking them apart.

Ingredients
Salmon Patties are very easy to make, quick to prepare and use canned salmon for convenience.
For the Salmon
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 14.75 oz Canned Pink salmon, drained (418g)
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 Green Onions (finely chopped)
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
- 4 lemon wedges
How to Make Salmon Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Drain the canned salmon of all liquid and place it into a large bowl.
- Remove any large or visible bones from the salmon and mash it with a fork until well broken up.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In the same bowl, add the beaten egg, mustard powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh parsley, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined.
Step 3: Form Patties
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a patty using your hands.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place each patty into the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Salmon Patties!
How to Serve Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your meal preferences. Whether as a main dish or a delightful appetizer, these patties can elevate your dining experience.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the salmon patties on a fresh bed of mixed greens for a light and healthy option. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette for extra flavor.
With Lemon Wedges
- Pair the patties with lemon wedges to enhance their citrusy taste. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top adds brightness and freshness.
As Sliders
- Make mini salmon patty sliders by placing each patty in a small bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings!
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as garlic aioli or yogurt-based sauces. These add extra flavor and can make the meal more interactive.
How to Perfect Salmon Patties
To ensure your salmon patties turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley and green onions will enhance the flavor profile of your patties significantly.
- Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the texture light and fluffy, avoiding dense patties.
- Chill before cooking: Allow the patties to rest in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before cooking; this helps them hold their shape better during frying.
- Cook on medium heat: This ensures that the outside gets crispy without burning while allowing the inside to cook through properly.
- Test for seasoning: Before forming all the patties, cook a small sample to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Best Side Dishes for Salmon Patties
Pairing side dishes with your Salmon Patties can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
-
Steamed Asparagus
A light vegetable side that adds color and crunch. Simply steam until tender-crisp. -
Quinoa Salad
A nutritious grain salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing complements the flavors of salmon well. -
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with salmon. Roast them with olive oil, salt, and pepper until golden. -
Coleslaw
A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the patties. -
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
This low-carb alternative is creamy and rich, making it a perfect accompaniment for salmon. -
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted until crispy, they add an earthy flavor that balances well with fish dishes. -
Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice flavored with herbs complements salmon beautifully while providing heartiness to the meal. -
Grilled Zucchini
Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini slices offer a simple but delicious vegetable side that pairs perfectly with seafood.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salmon Patties can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Skipping the draining step: Failing to drain the canned salmon properly can lead to overly watery patties. Always remove excess liquid before mixing.
-
Not mashing enough: If you don’t mash the salmon thoroughly, your patties may fall apart during cooking. Make sure to break it down well with a fork.
-
Ignoring seasoning: Overlooking salt and pepper can leave your patties bland. Taste and adjust seasonings before forming them into patties.
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Using too much egg: Adding more than one egg can make the mixture overly wet. Stick to the recipe for optimal texture.
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Crowding the pan: Placing too many patties in the pan at once can cause uneven cooking. Cook them in batches if necessary for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Salmon Patties in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Salmon Patties
- Place uncooked or cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag; they will keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating Salmon Patties
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm a little oil in a skillet and cook over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Salmon Patties:
How do I make Salmon Patties crispy?
To achieve crispy Salmon Patties, ensure your pan is hot before adding them. Use enough oil and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh salmon. Just cook and flake it before mixing with other ingredients.
What can I serve with Salmon Patties?
These patties pair well with salads, roasted vegetables, or a dipping sauce like tartar sauce or aioli.
Are Salmon Patties healthy?
Yes! They are high in protein and healthy fats while being low in carbs, making them a nutritious meal option.
Final Thoughts
Salmon Patties are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. We encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Salmon Patties
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Salmon Patties, a versatile and convenient dish that can elevate any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, these savory fish cakes are made with canned salmon, making them quick and easy to prepare without sacrificing taste. The bright notes of lemon zest and fresh herbs create a burst of flavor in every bite, while their protein-packed goodness makes them a healthy choice for the entire family. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or in a sandwich, these Salmon Patties are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 14.75 oz Canned Pink salmon, drained (418g)
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 Green Onions (finely chopped)
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
- 4 lemon wedges
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon and place it in a mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash it until finely broken up.
- Add the beaten egg, mustard powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat and cook each patty for 4-5 minutes on both sides until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 421mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg