The Best Salmon Patties Recipe

Salmon patties are a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy seafood in a versatile form. This recipe is perfect for those who want to incorporate more fish into their diet without spending hours in the kitchen. With a crispy, golden exterior and a flavorful, tender inside, these salmon patties will quickly become a favorite. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make and are great for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty appetizer. Serve them with a side of tartar sauce and a fresh squeeze of lime for the perfect finishing touch.

This salmon patty recipe is made using canned boneless, skinless salmon, making it not only budget-friendly but also convenient. The added seasonings and herbs like cilantro, onion powder, and parsley create a well-balanced, savory flavor. The panko breadcrumbs give these patties a satisfying crunch, while the eggs and milk help bind everything together to form perfectly shaped patties. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these salmon patties are an easy way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

2. Affordable

Using canned salmon makes this recipe budget-friendly, yet it still delivers great taste and quality.

3. Packed with Flavor

The seasoning mix, including cilantro, onion powder, and parsley, ensures that each bite is flavorful and well-seasoned.

4. Crispy and Tender

Thanks to the panko breadcrumbs, these patties are crispy on the outside while remaining tender and moist on the inside.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your preferences. Try adding garlic, lemon zest, or different herbs to personalize the flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 (5 oz.) cans boneless skinless salmon
• Milk (1/4 cup)
• Panko bread crumbs (1 cup)
• 2 large eggs
• Salt (1/2 tsp)
• Black pepper (1/2 tsp)
• Seasoned salt (a few dashes)
• Cilantro (1/4 tsp)
• Onion powder (1/2 tsp)
• Parsley (1/2 tsp)
• Oil for frying
• 1 fresh lime
• Tartar sauce for dipping

Variations

• Spicy Salmon Patties: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Zest: For a citrusy twist, add some lemon zest to the mixture to brighten up the flavors.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Try adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute for the panko to make the recipe gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Drain the canned salmon and remove any bones or skin. Place the salmon in a large bowl and break it up into smaller pieces with a fork.

Step 2: Add the Ingredients

To the bowl of salmon, add the milk, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, salt, black pepper, seasoned salt, cilantro, onion powder, and parsley. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Step 3: Form the Patties

With your hands, shape the salmon mixture into small patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter, pressing gently to hold the shape. You should be able to make about 8-10 patties depending on the size.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. You want the oil to be hot, but not smoking, before adding the patties.

Step 5: Fry the Patties

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet. Fry them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip them gently to avoid breaking the patties.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the salmon patties hot with a squeeze of fresh lime and a side of tartar sauce for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can result in dense patties.
• Use Cold Salmon: If possible, chill the salmon mixture for about 10-15 minutes before forming the patties. This helps the patties hold together better while frying.
• Fry in Batches: If making a larger batch, fry the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can make it difficult to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Test the Heat of the Oil: Before frying all the patties, test one to see if the oil is at the right temperature. It should bubble and sizzle immediately when the patty hits the oil.

How to Serve

• With a Salad: Serve these salmon patties over a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, with a light vinaigrette for a healthier meal.
• In a Bun: Make a salmon patty sandwich by placing the patties in a soft burger bun and topping with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the salmon patties with roasted vegetables like asparagus, sweet potatoes, or zucchini for a complete, balanced meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve these patties as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.

Freezing

To freeze the patties, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply air fry or bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until heated through.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the salmon patties in a skillet over medium heat, turning once, until they are heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the air fryer or oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

Yes, you can use fresh salmon, but you will need to cook and flake it before mixing with the other ingredients. Canned salmon makes this recipe quick and convenient.

2. Can I bake these salmon patties instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them for later use.

4. Can I use a different type of breadcrumb?

Yes, you can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes.

5. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to drain the salmon well before mixing. The panko breadcrumbs and eggs help hold the patties together, so be sure to use the correct amounts of both.

6. Can I add vegetables to the patties?

Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the mixture for added flavor and texture.

7. Are these salmon patties gluten-free?

To make gluten-free salmon patties, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

8. Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can use other types of canned fish, such as tuna or mackerel, as a substitute for salmon in this recipe.

9. Can I make these patties spicy?

Yes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.

10. How do I serve the salmon patties?

Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lime, tartar sauce, or a dipping sauce of your choice. They pair well with a salad, roasted vegetables, or as a sandwich.

Conclusion

These salmon patties are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you enjoy them as a main course or a snack, these patties are sure to satisfy. With the convenience of canned salmon and the added benefit of the air fryer or stovetop, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a quick and tasty meal.

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