These crispy salmon patties are packed with fresh flavors from parsley, lemon, and green onions, creating the perfect balance between light and savory. The golden brown crust forms a satisfying crunch while the tender salmon inside remains moist and flavorful. Whether pan fried for a crispy finish or baked for a lighter alternative, these patties are a fantastic addition to any meal.
Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a creamy dipping sauce to elevate the dish even further. They’re easy to prepare and make for a great meal prep option, ensuring you always have a healthy, high protein meal ready to go. With simple ingredients and quick prep time, these salmon patties are bound to become a household favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 (14.75 oz) can pink salmon, drained
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mash the drained salmon with a fork, removing any large bones if necessary.
- Add the beaten egg, mustard powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties.
- To Shallow Fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium low heat. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
- To Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve warm with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 302 kcal per patty | Servings: 4
Crispy Salmon Patties: A Delicious, Nutritious, and Easy Meal
Salmon patties are a classic dish that have been enjoyed for generations. They are easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and packed with healthy nutrients, making them a fantastic choice for a quick lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Made with simple ingredients like canned salmon, fresh herbs, and seasonings, these patties come together in no time and can be cooked either in a skillet for a crispy finish or baked for a lighter alternative.
Whether you’re looking for a high protein, low carb meal or just a delicious way to enjoy seafood, these salmon patties are an excellent option. They pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from fresh salads to roasted vegetables or even a creamy dipping sauce. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of this dish, some serving ideas, variations you can try, and tips for making the perfect salmon patties every time.
Why You’ll Love These Salmon Patties
There are several reasons why salmon patties should be on your regular meal rotation:
- Quick and Easy – With just a handful of ingredients, these patties come together in less than 30 minutes, making them a great option for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious – Salmon is packed with protein, omega 3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, making these patties both delicious and good for you.
- Budget-Friendly – Using canned salmon keeps this dish affordable while still providing all the benefits of fresh fish.
- Versatile – These patties can be served in a variety of ways, including as a main dish, in sandwiches, or even crumbled over salads.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.
The Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is considered one of the healthiest types of fish you can eat. It is an excellent source of high quality protein, which helps support muscle growth and repair. Additionally, salmon is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function, heart health, and reducing inflammation in the body.
Other key nutrients found in salmon include:
- Vitamin D – Supports bone health and immune function.
- B Vitamins – Essential for energy production and overall health.
- Selenium – A powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
- Potassium – Supports healthy blood pressure levels and cardiovascular function.
By incorporating salmon patties into your diet, you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also giving your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Best Ways to Serve Salmon Patties
One of the great things about salmon patties is how versatile they are. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
1. With a Fresh Salad
Pair your salmon patties with a crisp, refreshing salad for a light and healthy meal. A simple mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon perfectly.
2. As a Sandwich or Burger
Turn your salmon patties into a mouthwatering sandwich by placing them between a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a creamy sauce like tartar sauce or garlic aioli. For a low carb option, wrap them in lettuce instead of using a bun.
3. With Roasted Vegetables
Serve these patties alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sweet potatoes for a well balanced meal. The caramelized flavors of the roasted veggies pair beautifully with the crispy, savory patties.
4. Over Rice or Quinoa
For a heartier meal, serve salmon patties over a bed of rice or quinoa with a drizzle of lemon juice or a light yogurt based sauce. This combination adds texture and makes the dish even more satisfying.
5. As an Appetizer
Make smaller sized salmon cakes and serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like spicy mayo, tzatziki, or a classic remoulade. This is a great option for parties or gatherings.
Variations and Customizations
While the basic recipe for salmon patties is simple and delicious, there are many ways to customize them based on your preferences and dietary needs.
1. Make Them Spicy
If you love heat, add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.
2. Add More Herbs
Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or chives for a unique flavor twist.
3. Try Different Binders
Instead of using eggs, you can use mashed avocado, mayonnaise, or even a flaxseed egg (for a vegan friendly option) to help bind the patties together.
4. Use Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned
If you have fresh salmon on hand, you can cook and flake it instead of using canned salmon. This will give the patties an even fresher taste.
5. Make Them Gluten-Free
The traditional recipe is already gluten free, but if you need a firmer texture, you can add a bit of almond flour or crushed gluten free crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
Tips for Making the Best Salmon Patties
To ensure your salmon patties turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Drain the Canned Salmon Well – Too much moisture can make the patties fall apart. Be sure to drain the salmon thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid making the patties too dense.
- Chill Before Cooking – If you have time, refrigerate the patties for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Use Medium-Low Heat – Cooking over medium low heat allows the patties to develop a crispy crust without burning.
- Flip Gently – Use a spatula to carefully flip the patties to prevent them from breaking apart.
Storage and Meal Prep
Salmon patties are an excellent meal prep option because they store well and can be enjoyed later in the week.
- Refrigeration – Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven at 350°F until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Conclusion:
Salmon patties are a simple yet delicious dish that brings together incredible flavors and nutritional benefits. They are quick to make, highly customizable, and can be served in a variety of ways, making them a staple in any kitchen. Whether you enjoy them as a main course, in a sandwich, or as a healthy appetizer, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your household.
With their rich omega 3 content, high protein levels, and incredible taste, salmon patties offer the perfect balance of health and indulgence. So next time you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, give these crispy salmon patties a try you won’t be disappointed!