Salmon Cakes Recipe: Crispy, Flavorful, and Irresistible
Salmon Cakes Recipe are a delicious way to enjoy the rich, flavorful taste of salmon in a convenient, handheld form. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they offer a perfect balance of texture and taste. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, a brunch option, or even a party appetizer, salmon cakes are versatile and satisfying.
Homemade salmon cakes elevate the dish far beyond canned or frozen alternatives. Using fresh ingredients allows for rich flavor, natural seasoning, and a healthier preparation without excessive fillers. Whether made from fresh salmon fillets or canned salmon, these cakes provide a protein-packed, nutrient-rich meal. They are easy to prepare, highly customizable, and a favorite for both kids and adults.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon fillet, cooked and flaked | 1 lb (450 g) | 420 kcal |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 kcal |
| Panko breadcrumbs | ½ cup | 110 kcal |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tablespoons | 180 kcal |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | 5 kcal |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 kcal |
| Green onions, chopped | 2 tablespoons | 5 kcal |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons | 2 kcal |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove | 5 kcal |
| Salt | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | To taste | 2 kcal |
| Olive oil or butter (for frying) | 2 tablespoons | 240 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the salmon
Cook the salmon fillet by baking, grilling, or pan-searing until fully cooked. Flake it into a large mixing bowl, removing any bones and skin. - Mix the ingredients
Add eggs, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, green onions, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper to the flaked salmon. Mix gently until all ingredients are combined. - Form the cakes
Divide the mixture into 6–8 portions and shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick. - Chill (optional)
Refrigerate the formed patties for 15–20 minutes to help them hold together during cooking. - Cook the salmon cakes
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. - Serve warm
Remove from the pan and serve immediately with your favorite sauce or garnish.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Spice it up: Add paprika, cayenne, or Old Bay seasoning for a kick.
- Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
- Make it healthier: Bake instead of frying to reduce fat content.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds.
- Flavor variations: Swap parsley with dill or cilantro, or add a teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire for umami.
Nutritional Information (Per 1 Salmon Cake – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a lemon-garlic aioli or tartar sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a light meal.
- Place on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a salmon burger.
- Serve alongside rice or quinoa for a balanced dinner.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley for an elegant presentation.
Salmon Cakes Recipe: Crispy, Flavorful, and Irresistible
6-8
servings15
minutes10
minutes180-220
kcalIngredients
IngredienttQuantity
Salmon fillet, cooked and flakedt1 lb (450 g)
Eggst2 large
Panko breadcrumbst½ cup
Mayonnaiset2 tablespoons
Dijon mustardt1 teaspoon
Lemon juicet1 tablespoon
Green onions, choppedt2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley, choppedt2 tablespoons
Garlic, mincedt1 clove
SalttTo taste
Black peppertTo taste
Olive oil or butter (for frying)t2 tablespoons
Directions
- Cook the salmon fillet and flake it into a bowl, removing any skin or bones.
- Add eggs, panko, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, green onions, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
- Divide the mixture into 6–8 patties, about ¾ inch thick.
- (Optional) Chill the patties in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to help them hold together.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sauce or garnish.
Recipe Video
Notes
- To ensure your salmon cakes hold together, chill the patties for 15–20 minutes before cooking. Handle them gently when flipping to avoid breaking.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon?
Yes! Canned salmon works well and saves time. Make sure to drain it and remove any large bones before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. How do I prevent salmon cakes from falling apart?
Chilling the formed patties for 15–20 minutes before cooking helps them hold together. Also, avoid overmixing the salmon mixture and handle the patties gently while cooking.
3. Can I bake salmon cakes instead of frying?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 12–15 minutes per side or until golden brown. This is a healthier alternative with less oil.
4. Are salmon cakes healthy?
Yes! Salmon cakes are high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. Using fresh ingredients and minimal oil keeps them nutritious while still flavorful.
5. Can I make salmon cakes ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the mixture, form the patties, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cook just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
Salmon cakes are a delicious, protein-packed, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. With a crispy exterior, tender interior, and customizable flavors, they are perfect for weeknight dinners, brunches, or appetizers. Making salmon cakes at home ensures freshness, healthiness, and control over ingredients while creating a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find salmon cakes to be an easy, elegant, and satisfying addition to your meal rotation.
