How to Make Salmon Patties That Impress

Looking for a delicious and simple way to impress your family and friends at your next meal? Learning how to make salmon patties is the answer. These crispy, flavorful patties turn everyday canned or fresh salmon into a mouthwatering dish full of protein and heart-healthy omega-3s. With a perfect balance of seasonings, texture, and a golden crust, salmon patties are not just easy to prepare but also guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: This recipe uses common pantry ingredients, making it quick and stress-free to prepare any night of the week.
• Family-friendly flavors: Mild yet savory, salmon patties appeal to all ages, even picky eaters who shy away from fish.
• Healthy and filling: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, these patties offer a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
• Great texture contrast: The crispy golden exterior combined with a tender, moist interior makes every bite satisfying.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy them as a main dish, in sandwiches, or as appetizers to fit any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to showing off the flavors in this salmon patties recipe. Each component plays a vital role in the overall texture, moisture, and seasoning, ensuring every bite is a perfect balance.

• Salmon: Canned salmon is convenient and flavorful; leave bones for added calcium or remove for a smoother texture.
• Bread crumbs: These help bind the patty together and create a light, crispy coating during cooking.
• Egg: Acts as a natural binder to keep the patties from falling apart in the pan.
• Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch, elevating the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh herbs: Dill or parsley brighten the dish with fresh, herbal notes.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon juice enhance the salmon’s natural flavor.
• Oil for frying: Use a light oil like canola or vegetable for a crispy exterior without overpowering the taste.

Variations for How to Make Salmon Patties

One of the best things about learning how to make salmon patties is how easy it is to customize the recipe. Depending on your tastes or dietary needs, you can tweak ingredients without losing that signature deliciousness.

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a fiery punch.
• Gluten-free: Substitute bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
• Vegetable boost: Mix in finely grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrition.
• Cheesy twist: Fold in shredded cheddar or parmesan for a creamy, savory finish.
• Asian-inspired: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger, and serve with a sesame dipping sauce.

How to Make How to Make Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Drain and flake canned salmon into a bowl, removing large bones if preferred. This forms the protein-rich base of the patties and ensures even seasoning and shredding.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Combine the flaked salmon with bread crumbs, diced onion, fresh herbs, beaten egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to maintain moisture.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Use your hands to form even-sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick, ensuring uniform cooking and perfect texture.

Step 4: Heat the Pan

Preheat a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan well. This helps achieve that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Cook the Patties

Place the salmon patties in the hot oil and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Handle carefully to keep shape intact and prevent breaking.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Transfer cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately or keep warm until ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips for Making How to Make Salmon Patties

• Don’t over-mix: Gently combine ingredients to keep patties tender and prevent dryness.
• Use cold ingredients: Keep salmon and egg chilled for easier shaping and better texture.
• Test the heat: Place a small drop of batter in the hot oil—if it sizzles immediately, the pan is perfect for cooking.
• Press gently: Avoid compacting patties too tightly, which can result in heaviness instead of a light texture.
• Flip carefully: Use a thin spatula and flip once for neat edges and even browning.

How to Serve How to Make Salmon Patties

Garnishes

Top your salmon patties with fresh lemon wedges, a dollop of creamy tartar sauce, or chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten flavors and add a decorative touch.

Side Dishes

Complement these patties with crispy roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, creamy coleslaw, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and colorful.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve salmon patties as sliders with soft buns and pickles, pile them on a bed of mixed greens with vinaigrette, or use them as a protein-packed topping for grain bowls to impress guests visually and gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled salmon patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals or snacks.

Freezing

Freeze cooked patties by arranging them in a single layer on a tray and transferring to a freezer bag after solidifying. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating

Reheat salmon patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore crispness, or warm gently in the oven to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh salmon works wonderfully, just cook and flake it before mixing with the other ingredients. It adds a slightly different texture but maintains delicious flavor.

What can I substitute for bread crumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even ground nuts like almonds to bind the patties and add interesting texture and flavor.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to include enough binding ingredients like egg and bread crumbs, and avoid over-mixing. Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping for better hold.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, gives a lighter, less oily version while maintaining crispiness.

Are salmon patties healthy?

Definitely! Salmon is rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential nutrients, making these patties a wholesome choice.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make salmon patties, you have a versatile, tasty dish ready to brighten up any table. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or to wow guests, these patties offer unbeatable flavor with ease. Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a meal everyone will be asking for again and again!

Related Posts

• Spicy Korean Cauliflower Wings Recipe to Try Tonight
• Crispy Baked Shrimp Toast to Try Tonight
• How to Make Perfect Crack Green Beans Fast

Print