Easy Salmon Cakes Recipe: Crispy, Flavorful Patties Made with Fresh or Canned Salmon

Are you tired of bland, dry salmon dishes? The secret to restaurant-quality Salmon Cakes lies in simple preparation and smart ingredient combinations. This versatile recipe transforms ordinary salmon into extraordinary, crispy patties that will impress even the pickiest eaters.

Discover why this Salmon patties recipe has become a breakfast favorite in coastal communities worldwide. It’s quick, uses minimal ingredients, and requires no fancy kitchen gadgets.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious salmon cakes. Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe accessible for home cooks of all levels.

• Fresh salmon cakes (250g/1 cup): Use skinless, boneless salmon or the convenient option of canned salmon in olive oil
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For that signature crispiness
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Absorbs moisture and helps bind
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasoning
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional): Adds a fresh herb note
• Use a neutral oil for pan-frying, such as vegetable, canola, or light olive oil.

Timing

Mastering these salmon cakes requires attention to time management:

Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Compared to traditional salmon recipes that can take an hour or more, this method saves approximately 20% of your cooking time without sacrificing quality.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Salmon

Start with either fresh salmon that’s been properly flaked or a can of salmon packed in olive oil. If using fresh salmon, drain and flake it into small pieces, removing any bones or skin.

Step 2: Create the Batter

In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, flour, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten and makes the patties tough.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Use about 3 tablespoons of mixture per patty, forming them into patties roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each cake to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Pour about 1/2 inch of oil into a skillet and heat over medium. When the oil shimmers, gently add the patties and fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Remove the patties from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Nutritional Information

These salmon cakes offer a balance of flavor and nutrition:

Per serving (2 patties):

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 28g

Fat: 18g (mostly healthy omega-3 fatty acids)

Carbohydrates: 22g

Sodium: 450mg

Saturated Fat: 2g

These salmon cakes provide 15% of the daily recommended protein, making them an excellent choice for muscle maintenance and satiety.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Make this recipe work for your dietary needs:

• Whole Wheat Bread: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed whole wheat bread for added fiber
• Flaxseed Meal: Substitute half the breadcrumbs with ground flaxseed for omega-3 benefits
• Applesauce Swap: For a gluten-free version, replace half the breadcrumbs with unsweetened applesauce
• Honey as Sweetener: If using canned salmon packed in water, a touch of honey can balance flavors naturally
• Spice Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for flavor without calories

These modifications reduce the glycemic index while maintaining the delicious taste and texture of your salmon cakes.

Serving Suggestions

Transform these simple salmon cakes into a complete meal with these complementary options:

• Classic Remoulade Sauce: A tangy mixture of mayonnaise, dijon mustard, pickles, capers, and tarragon
• French Fries: Crispy golden fries are the perfect vehicle for salmon cakes
• Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist that complements the salmon flavors
• Side Salad: With a lemon-tahini dressing to balance the richness
• Grilled Buns: Serve on toasted brioche buns with a dollop of Greek yogurt
• Lemon Wedges: For bright citrus notes that enhance the salmon flavor

For a complete meal, pair with steamed vegetables and a simple green salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

These troubleshooting tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results:

• Overmixing: This develops gluten and makes patties tough. Mix just until combined
• Too Much Egg: Use only one large egg for four patties to avoid sogginess
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness
• Not Drying Ingredients: Pat patties dry before cooking for maximum crispiness
• Underseasoning: Add a pinch of garlic powder or Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor
• High Heat: Medium heat is key to prevent the outside from burning before the inside cooks through

With these tips, you’ll consistently create perfect salmon cakes with beautiful golden crusts and moist, flaky interiors.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Make your salmon cakes last longer without sacrificing quality:

• Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes.
• Freeze: Place cooled patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months
• Reheating Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above, or bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 15-20 minutes
• Make Ahead: Prepare patties ahead of time and refrigerate uncovered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking
• Best Technique: For maximum crispiness when reheating, place patties directly in a preheated air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes

Proper storage extends the enjoyment of your salmon cakes while maintaining their delicious flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This versatile Salmon Cakes recipe offers a quick, flavorful way to enjoy this healthy fish. Whether you’re using fresh salmon or the convenience of canned salmon, the results are consistently delicious and impressive.

With these salmon cakes, you’ve unlocked a weeknight dinner solution that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Try serving them with your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal that the whole family will love.

What’s your favorite way to serve salmon cakes? Share your ideas in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!