Also known as a salmon cake, these light and lean salmon patties are not quite as hefty as large-scale Salmon Burgers but just as satisfying when it comes to ease and flavor. I wanted this salmon patty recipe to be reminiscent of the old-fashioned salmon patties I’ve tasted in my travels. That meant a tender, creamy interior, a lightly crisp exterior, and a touch of spice. Inspired by the fresh salmon patties I’ve eaten in Seattle and the Southern salmon patties I’ve tried in Charleston and Louisiana, these simple salmon patties adopt a little Midwest practicality in the form of canned salmon. (I also use good-quality, responsibly sourced canned seafood for these delicious Salmon Croquettes and the bell pepper Salmon Quinoa Cakes in my cookbook.) As much as I adore cooking fresh salmon—evident from my extensive collection of healthy salmon recipes—the idea of making fresh salmon patties is just too much for a typical weeknight. Maybe someday I’ll live in a city with amazing access to affordable fresh salmon but for now, I’ll cope with a platter of these crispy, tender canned salmon patties.
It’s available at any grocery store, no trip to the seafood counter required.It’s convenient. No need to separately cook the salmon before adding it to the salmon patty mixture.Canned salmon is packed with the same nutrients as fresh salmon, meaning these salmon patties are just as good for you as if they were made with fresh.It costs a fraction of the price.
How to Make the Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Seasoned simply and served with a dollop of healthy Greek yogurt, fresh herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon, this is the best salmon patties recipe you can enjoy any night of the week in under 30 minutes.
The Ingredients
Canned Salmon. Loaded with healthy fats, Omega-3s, and vitamins like vitamin D and vitamin E, salmon is without a doubt one of my favorite protein sources. Its firm, meaty flavor and texture make it ideal for these hearty salmon patties.
Greek Yogurt. Rather than make salmon patties with mayo, I swap Greek yogurt for a healthy touch. It provides a creamy interior texture and a bit of tang. I also used this Greek yogurt trick in my tasty Smoked Salmon Dip recipe.Egg. Binds with the breadcrumbs to give the salmon patties body and structure.Breadcrumbs. An essential ingredient for binding the patties together and locking in moisture to prevent the salmon cakes from being dry. Breadcrumbs give a more tender texture than salmon patties with flour (which I find too dense).
Dijon + White Vinegar. To give the patties punch.
Garlic Powder + Onion Powder. Two everyday pantry staples that add a whole lotta pizazz to these simple salmon patties.Cayenne Pepper. For a little southern flair that gives these salmon cakes just the right amount of kick. For more spice, try this Blackened Salmon.Parsley. For a little freshness and a finish of color. Fresh dill would compliment the salmon as well.Lemon. Brightens and compliments the salmon (as in this Garlic Salmon with Lemon Butter) and the tangy Greek yogurt.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Uncooked salmon patties can be refrigerated for up to 1 day. Individually wrap each patty and store it in an airtight container. Cooked salmon patties can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.To Reheat. Reheat gently in a lightly oiled skillet on the stove. I like to splash a little water in the skillet with the salmon, then cover it to lock in moisture and help the patties steam and prevent them from drying out.To Freeze. Cooked salmon patties can be frozen for up to 3 weeks in the freezer. Let thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop as directed above.
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
Mixing Bowls. This space-saving set of nested glass mixing bowls is my favorite for tossing together ingredients for sweet and savory dishes.Skillet. No kitchen should be without a trusty cast iron skillet. Citrus Juicer. This handheld juicer is my fav for freshly squeezed lemon juice without any seeds.
Midwest sensibility, meet coastal living! Panko bread crumbs or cornmeal might work here too.
On a bun, slider style. Add thinly sliced tomatoes, red onions, and a smear of Greek yogurt or tartar sauce.On their own (my favorite), with a big dollop of Greek yogurt and a squeeze of lemon.On a Salad, choose your favorite crisp greens and veggies for a nutrition-packed meal.
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