Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties are a fantastic dish that combines convenience and flavor, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With canned salmon as the star ingredient, these patties come together quickly and are packed with nutrients. They make a delightful main course or can be served as an appetizer. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs elevate this dish, ensuring it will be a hit at your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these salmon patties are a wholesome choice that won’t weigh you down.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them with a side salad, in a sandwich, or as finger food at your next event.
- Budget-Friendly: Using canned salmon makes this dish affordable without sacrificing taste.
- Easy Cleanup: With minimal dishes required, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup.

Tools and Preparation
To make Salmon Patties, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Measuring spoons
- Skillet
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without splatter.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing the salmon and combining ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your patties.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and prevents patties from sticking.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 14.75 oz Canned Pink salmon, drained (418g)
For Flavoring
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1 tsp Lemon Zest
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 Green Onions (finely chopped)
For Binding
- 1 large Egg
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper
To Serve
- 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.
- Mash it with a fork until flaky.
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 the Patties
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a patty about ½ inch thick.
Now you’re ready to cook your delicious Salmon Patties! Enjoy them hot with your favorite sides or sauces.
How to Serve Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, these serving suggestions will make your salmon patties shine.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh Spinach: Serve your salmon patties on a bed of fresh spinach for a nutritious boost.
- Mixed Salad: Pair with a mix of lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with vinaigrette.
With Dipping Sauces
- Tartar Sauce: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and tang to your salmon patties.
- Lemon Aioli: This garlicky dip complements the flavors perfectly, adding richness.
As Part of a Sandwich
- Burger Buns: Create delicious salmon patty sandwiches with fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato.
- Wraps: Use whole-grain wraps with avocado and salsa for a healthier option.
Accompanied by Sides
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted veggies for a colorful plate.
- Rice Pilaf: A side of rice pilaf adds texture and flavor to your meal.
How to Perfect Salmon Patties
To ensure your salmon patties turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips. They will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
- Choose Quality Salmon: Using high-quality canned salmon enhances the flavor and nutrition of your patties.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the patties tender rather than dense.
- Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate the formed patties for about 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Use Non-Stick Cookware: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking without burning.
- Test for Seasoning: Cook a small piece first to check if more seasoning is needed before cooking all the patties.
Best Side Dishes for Salmon Patties
Pairing your salmon patties with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the rich flavor of the patties.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs provides protein and keeps the meal healthy.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer sweetness that balances the savory taste of salmon.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus is quick to prepare and adds vibrant color to your plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create a comforting pairing that everyone loves.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly in vinegar offers crispness that complements well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salmon Patties can be a breeze, but there are common missteps that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the draining step: Not draining the canned salmon well can lead to mushy patties. Always ensure excess liquid is removed before mixing.
- Neglecting flavor balance: Failing to add proper seasonings like salt and pepper can make your patties bland. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can break down the salmon too much, resulting in a less appealing texture. Gently combine ingredients just until mixed.
- Not using fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh parsley or green onions can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh if possible for a vibrant taste.
- Ignoring cooking time: Cooking for too long can dry out your patties. Keep an eye on them and cook until golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the patties to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Salmon Patties
- Place cooked patties in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salmon Patties
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side, adding a bit of oil if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Salmon Patties:
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh salmon! Just cook 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 crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
What should I serve with Salmon Patties?
These patties pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, tartar sauce, or lemon wedges for added flavor.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add different herbs or spices based on your preference, such as dill or garlic powder.
How do I know when they are done cooking?
The patties should be golden brown on both sides and heated through. A food thermometer should read at least 145°F (63°C).
Final Thoughts
These Salmon Patties are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various herbs and spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or even as an appetizer at gatherings!
Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties are a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the convenience of canned salmon with the vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these patties are not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein and healthy fats. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or in a sandwich, they offer versatility that makes them a family favorite. With minimal cleanup involved, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle while savoring every bite of this delicious seafood treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately four patties 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 14.75 oz canned pink salmon (drained)
- 1 large egg
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon, remove bones if necessary, and mash it in a mixing bowl.
- Add beaten egg, mustard powder, lemon juice, parsley, green onions, salt, and pepper to the bowl; mix until combined.
- Shape the mixture into four patties about ½ inch thick.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg