I found this salmon cakes recipe on a busy weeknight. It’s been a lifesaver ever since. I was in my kitchen, looking at an almost empty pantry, trying to figure out dinner. Then, I saw two cans of salmon in the corner. I decided to make salmon cakes recipe, and it turned out to be a hit with my family.
As I mixed the ingredients, the kitchen filled with the smell of garlic and herbs. My kids, who weren’t fans of seafood, came into the kitchen because of the smell. In just 30 minutes, we enjoyed crispy salmon croquettes. This recipe is now our favorite for quick dinners, with a 4.99 out of 5 stars rating from 94 votes.
These salmon cakes are a hit not just with my family but also when I have guests over. They’re quick to make, with only 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking. You get 8 cakes, enough for 4 people. Each serving has 30g of protein and only 480 calories, making it a healthy choice.
Key Takeaways
- Quick 30-minute recipe perfect for busy weeknights
- Highly rated at 4.99/5 stars from 94 votes
- Serves 4, ideal for family dinners or small gatherings
- Nutritious meal with 30g of protein per serving
- Uses simple pantry ingredients for easy preparation
- Leftovers can be stored for 3-4 days in the fridge
- Versatile recipe that can be customized to taste preferences
Why These Crispy Salmon Cakes Are Perfect for Any Meal
I love making fish cakes, and these crispy salmon cakes are a favorite. They’re perfect for quick, tasty meals any time. Here’s why they’re a staple in my kitchen.
Quick and Easy 30-Minute Preparation
Time is valuable, and these salmon cakes save it. In just 30 minutes, I can make a delicious meal. Preparation takes 10 minutes, and cooking another 20. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when I need something quick but tasty.
Budget-Friendly Pantry Staple Meal
These salmon cakes are affordable without sacrificing flavor. I use canned salmon to save money. The ingredients are simple pantry staples:
- 1 pound of salmon (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup of mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives
Versatile Recipe for Family Dinners
What I love most is their versatility. They’re perfect for family dinners and can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste. Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 304 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Fiber | 1g |
These salmon cakes are not just tasty; they’re also healthy. They’re high in protein and low in carbs, making them good for many diets. Plus, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months, great for meal prep!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Cakes Recipe
I love making easy salmon patties. The secret to success is choosing the right ingredients. You’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh elements for the perfect salmon cake batter.
Start with canned boneless, skinless salmon. I prefer red salmon for its rich flavor. Pink salmon is also good and more affordable. Make sure to drain it well to avoid soggy patties.
Next, add large eggs as a binder. They’re key to keeping your salmon cakes together. For creaminess and flavor, mix in mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Don’t forget minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, and parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist.
To get the perfect texture, use panko breadcrumbs. They add a delightful crunch without making the patties heavy.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Canned salmon | 14.75 oz | Main protein |
| Large eggs | 2 | Binding agent |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup | Moisture and flavor |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp | Tangy flavor |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | Texture and binding |
If you like a little heat, add diced jalapeño. Red bell pepper adds color and crunch. With these ingredients, you’ll make delicious salmon cakes full of flavor and nutrition.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
I love making salmon burger patties, and the right tools make it easy. Let’s look at the kitchen equipment you need to make these tasty treats.
Mixing Bowls and Utensils
A big mixing bowl is key for mixing ingredients. I flake the salmon with a fork for the right texture. A whisk blends the eggs and seasonings well.
Measuring Tools and Scoops
Getting the right amounts is important. I use measuring spoons and cups for exact amounts. A 4-tablespoon ice cream scoop makes uniform patties.
Cooking Surfaces and Pans
A 12-inch nonstick skillet is best for frying salmon cakes. An air fryer is a healthier option. A 3-inch biscuit cutter shapes perfect patties.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | Combining ingredients |
| Fork | Flaking salmon |
| Measuring spoons/cups | Precise portioning |
| Ice cream scoop | Forming patties |
| 12-inch nonstick skillet | Frying salmon cakes |
| Air fryer (optional) | Healthier cooking method |
| Biscuit cutter | Shaping uniform patties |
With these tools, you’re ready to make perfect salmon burger patties every time. The right equipment makes cooking smooth and fun. It lets you focus on making delicious, homemade meals.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Making tasty salmon cakes is simpler than you might think. I’ll show you how to make these delicious seafood patties from start to finish.
Preparing the Salmon Mixture
To start your salmon cakes recipe, drain and flake canned pink salmon in a large bowl. Mix in all-purpose flour, finely chopped celery, and onion. Add an egg, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
Forming Perfect Patties
Use an ice cream scoop to portion the mixture into six equal parts. Shape each portion into a patty, pressing gently but firmly. This ensures uniform size and helps prevent the patties from falling apart during cooking.
Coating and Seasoning Tips
For extra crunch, coat your salmon cakes with crushed saltines or breadcrumbs. You can also try different seasonings like Old Bay for a unique flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers instead.
Once your patties are formed and seasoned, they’re ready for cooking. Heat canola oil in a pan and cook each patty for about 4 minutes per side until golden-brown. The whole process, from preparation to cooking, takes about 30 minutes. This makes it a quick and delicious meal option.
Cooking Techniques and Options
I love making salmon croquettes and fish cakes because they’re so versatile when it comes to cooking methods. Let’s explore some tasty options to get these delicious patties on your plate!
Pan-frying is my go-to method. I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the salmon cakes for about 3 minutes per side. This gives them a crispy, golden-brown exterior that’s simply irresistible.
For a healthier twist, I sometimes use my air fryer. I set it to 400°F and cook the fish cakes for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes. They come out perfectly crisp without all the extra oil.
Baking is another great option, especially when I’m making a big batch. I preheat the oven to 375°F and bake the salmon croquettes for about 10 minutes, turning once halfway through.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pan-Frying | Medium heat | 3 minutes per side | Crispy exterior, traditional flavor |
| Air Frying | 400°F (200°C) | 15 minutes total | Less oil, crispy texture |
| Baking | 375°F (190°C) | 10 minutes, turning once | Hands-off cooking, good for large batches |
No matter which method you choose, these salmon cakes will be a hit. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend brunch. Plus, with only 201 calories and 15g of protein per serving, they’re a nutritious choice too!
Tips for Preventing Salmon Cakes from Falling Apart
Making perfect salmon fritters can be tricky. It’s all about balancing ingredients and using the right techniques. Here are some key tips to help your salmon cakes stay together.
Proper Draining Techniques
Draining is key when making canned salmon recipes. I always drain the salmon well and flake it into small pieces. This helps avoid too much moisture, which can make the cakes fall apart.
Ideal Binding Methods
I use large eggs and mix everything well for binding. Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers soak up moisture. I shape the patties tightly using a mold or scoop. Chilling the mix for 30 minutes before cooking helps it firm up.
Temperature Control Tips
Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial when frying salmon cakes. I make sure not to overcrowd the pan, which can drop the oil temperature. For baking, I line the sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Too wet mixture | Add more breadcrumbs |
| Too dry mixture | Add a bit of mayonnaise |
| Falling apart while cooking | Chill mixture longer before cooking |
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t worry if your first try isn’t perfect. With these tips, you’ll soon be making delicious, intact salmon cakes every time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
I love serving easy salmon patties with different sauces and sides. These tasty salmon burger patties go well with many flavors. Let’s look at some great options to complete your meal.
Sauce Recommendations
A good sauce can make your salmon cakes even better. I suggest trying:
- Homemade tartar sauce
- Zesty lemon aioli
- Spicy sriracha mayo
Side Dish Options
Here are some quick and easy sides for your salmon patties:
- Fresh caprese salad
- Steamed microwave cauliflower
- Crispy broiled tomatoes
- Tender microwave asparagus
Plating Presentations
Make your salmon cakes look as good as they taste:
- Place two patties on a plate
- Add a slice of creamy avocado
- Garnish with a wedge of lemon
- Sprinkle fresh herbs for color
Remember, one pound of fresh salmon makes about 4 servings. For a full meal, add a garden-fresh tomato slice. These easy salmon patties are not only tasty but also healthy. They’re great for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual lunch.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
I love making salmon cakes in bulk for easy meals. These seafood patties keep well when stored right. After cooking, let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze cooked salmon cakes for up to 2 months. Wrap each patty in plastic wrap, then in a freezer bag. This keeps them from sticking and makes grabbing what you need easy.
When you’re ready to enjoy your salmon cakes, you have several reheating options:
- Microwave: Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes
- Oven: Warm at 350°F for about 10 minutes
- Skillet: Pan-fry over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side
For the best texture, reheating in the oven or skillet is best. It keeps the crispy exterior. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Cooked) | 3-4 days |
| Freezer (Cooked) | Up to 2 months |
| Refrigerator (Uncooked) | Up to 1 day |
| Freezer (Uncooked) | Up to 3 months |
Always check for spoilage before eating stored salmon cakes. With these tips, you can enjoy your seafood patties anytime!
Recipe Variations and Customizations
I love how versatile these salmon croquettes are! Let’s explore some exciting ways to tailor this recipe to your taste buds and dietary needs. Whether you’re craving extra spice or need a gluten-free option, there’s a variation for everyone.
Spice Adjustments
Want to kick up the heat? Try adding diced jalapeños to your salmon mixture. For a smoky twist, sprinkle in some smoked paprika. A pinch of cayenne pepper can really elevate the flavor profile of these fish cakes. Remember, the key is to start small and adjust to your liking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap out ingredients to create your perfect salmon cake. Instead of the 18 ounces of pink salmon, try using sockeye or red varieties for a richer taste. Replace the ½ cup of mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier option. For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of the 30 saltine crackers. These simple switches can transform your salmon croquettes into a whole new dish!
Dietary Modifications
Need a gluten-free version? No problem! Substitute the crackers with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them entirely. For a low-carb option, use almond flour as a binder. If you’re watching your calorie intake, bake the patties at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of frying them in oil. This method reduces the 195 calories per patty while keeping them delicious. With these modifications, you can enjoy these tasty salmon cakes regardless of your dietary restrictions.
