Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties are a delightful dish that perfectly combines convenience and flavor. This recipe, using canned salmon, is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. The appeal of Salmon Patties lies in their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, making them a favorite for both seafood lovers and those seeking healthy meal options.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious Salmon Patties ready in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even in a sandwich for a filling meal.
- Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these patties are perfect for a balanced diet.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavor of salmon makes this dish appealing for children and picky eaters alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Salmon Patties, gather the necessary tools. Using the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Measuring spoons
- Non-stick skillet
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing the salmon to achieve the ideal texture for your patties.
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents the patties from sticking, ensuring they cook evenly and get that perfect crust.

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)
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
- 2 Green Onions, finely chopped
Binding Ingredients
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
Serving Suggestion
- 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.
- Mash the salmon with a fork until it reaches a flaky consistency.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- In the same bowl, mix the beaten egg with the mashed salmon.
- Add mustard powder, lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh parsley, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Patties
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, carefully add each patty to the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade Salmon Patties with fresh lemon wedges on the side!
How to Serve Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties make a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, these patties can be paired with a range of sides and sauces for added flavor.
With Fresh Salad
- A refreshing green salad pairs well with salmon patties. Toss together mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, dressed in a light vinaigrette.
On a Bun
- Serve the salmon patties on whole-grain buns for a delicious sandwich option. Add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for extra flavor.
Topped with Avocado
- Sliced avocado adds creaminess and richness when placed on top of the patties. It also enhances the nutritional profile of the meal.
With Lemon Wedges
- Fresh lemon wedges are perfect for squeezing over the patties just before eating. This brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
With Tartar Sauce
- A dollop of tartar sauce complements the savory taste of salmon patties beautifully. You can make your own using mayonnaise, pickles, and herbs.
How to Perfect Salmon Patties
Creating perfectly cooked salmon patties involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs like parsley and green onions enhance flavor and freshness in your salmon patties.
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Don’t overmix: Combine the ingredients gently to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
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Chill before cooking: Refrigerating the patties for about 30 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape better while frying.
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Preheat your pan: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding olive oil. This helps achieve a nice golden crust on each patty.
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Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for best results.
Best Side Dishes for Salmon Patties
Pairing side dishes with salmon patties can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds vibrant color and a mild earthy flavor that complements salmon well.
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Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables provides a nutritious and filling side that balances out the richness of the patties.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These add natural sweetness and are easy to prepare by simply cubing, seasoning, and roasting until tender.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots offers texture contrast and freshness alongside the soft salmon patties.
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Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: This low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes is creamy and flavorful—perfect for soaking up any sauces.
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Cucumber Dill Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with dill makes for a cool accompaniment that enhances flavors without overpowering them.
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Brown Rice Pilaf: Fluffy brown rice pilaf with herbs or nuts gives you fiber while being easy to prepare as a filling side dish.
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Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach cooked with garlic is not only healthy but also brings vibrant color to the plate alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salmon Patties can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.
- Bold flavoring mistakes: Not seasoning properly can lead to bland patties. Be sure to add enough salt, pepper, and mustard powder to enhance the flavors.
- Bold texture issues: Over-mixing the salmon mixture can result in a mushy texture. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined for a better bite.
- Bold cooking temperature errors: Cooking at too high or too low heat can burn or undercook the patties. Use medium heat and carefully monitor them as they cook.
- Bold ingredient substitutions: Replacing key components without considering their flavors can alter the dish. Stick to the recommended ingredients for best results.
- Bold ignoring resting time: Skipping resting time after forming patties can make them fall apart while cooking. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Salmon Patties
- Place patties in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
- Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags or airtight containers. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Salmon Patties
- Bold oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Bold microwave method: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Bold stovetop method: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions you might have about making Salmon Patties.
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
You can definitely use fresh salmon! Just cook it first and flake it before mixing with other ingredients.
How do I make Salmon Patties gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Salmon Patties, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I customize my Salmon Patties?
Absolutely! You can add different herbs, spices, or even vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture.
What should I serve with Salmon Patties?
Salmon Patties pair well with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
These Salmon Patties are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs and spices or serve them with different sides. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to delight everyone at your table!
Salmon Patties
Indulge in the delightful flavor of Salmon Patties, a quick and versatile dish that transforms canned salmon into a crispy and tender delight. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, these patties are not just easy to prepare but also packed with protein and healthy fats. With a hint of lemon zest and fresh herbs, each bite is a burst of flavor that will please both seafood enthusiasts and those looking for nutritious meal options. Customize them with your favorite spices or serve them in various ways to keep mealtime exciting. Enjoy these salmon patties with fresh salads, on whole-grain buns, or simply with lemon wedges for added zing!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 14.75 oz Canned Pink salmon, drained
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
- 2 Green Onions, finely chopped
- 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. Remove any visible bones and mash with a fork until flaky.
- 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 about ¾ inch thick.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg