If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and versatile dish, this Salmon Cakes Recipe is a must-try! Whether you’re using fresh or canned salmon, these golden, crispy patties are packed with flavor and perfect for an easy weeknight meal, a light lunch, or even as an elegant appetizer.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. The flaky salmon is combined with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and a light crunch from breadcrumbs to create a perfectly balanced bite. These salmon cakes are pan-seared until golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior with a tender, juicy center.
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can make it as healthy or indulgent as you want, swap ingredients to fit dietary needs, or even change up the seasoning to match your favorite flavors. If you love dishes that are easy, nutritious, and packed with protein, this Salmon Cakes Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Table of contents
Recipe Card
Salmon Cakes
Difficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes10
minutes473
kcalSalmon cakes are a delightful and versatile dish made from fresh or canned salmon, mixed with sautéed vegetables, bread crumbs, and seasonings, then formed into patties and pan-fried until golden brown. They are perfect as an appetizer, main course, or snack, offering a delicious and easy way to enjoy the rich flavors of salmon.
Ingredients
1 lb fresh salmon fillet or 14-15 oz canned salmon, drained
1 medium onion, finely diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup Panko bread crumbs
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
3 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Salmon: If using fresh salmon, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cooked through. Let it cool, then flake the salmon with a fork.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, sautéed vegetables, Panko bread crumbs, beaten eggs, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and minced parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 8-10 patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Cook the salmon cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve the salmon cakes warm with your favorite dipping sauce and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
- You can use either fresh or canned salmon for this recipe.
- If the mixture is too moist, add more bread crumbs. If it’s too dry, add a bit more mayonnaise.
- These salmon cakes can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
Why This Salmon Cakes Recipe Works
This Salmon Cakes Recipe stands out because it is:
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and works great with canned salmon.
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with omega-3s, protein, and essential nutrients.
- Versatile – Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or even in a sandwich.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepped in advance for easy meal planning.
Customization Options for Dietary Preferences:
- Low-Carb/Keto – Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats.
- Dairy-Free – Skip the mayonnaise and use mashed avocado or dairy-free yogurt.
- Spicy Version – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Additional tips for the perfect Salmon cakes recipe
- Choosing the Salmon:
- Fresh vs. Canned: Both fresh and canned salmon work well for this recipe. Fresh salmon offers a richer flavor, while canned salmon is convenient and budget-friendly.
- Quality Matters: If using fresh salmon, opt for wild-caught for the best flavor and nutritional benefits.
- Preparing the Salmon:
- Cooking Fresh Salmon: Bake or poach the salmon until just cooked through. Overcooking can make the salmon dry.
- Draining Canned Salmon: Ensure you drain canned salmon thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Vegetable Preparation:
- Finely Dice: Finely dice the onion and red bell pepper to ensure they cook evenly and blend smoothly into the salmon mixture.
- Sautéing: Sauté the vegetables until they are soft but not browned. This enhances their sweetness and flavor.
- Binding the Mixture:
- Eggs and Mayonnaise: These ingredients help bind the mixture together. Adjust the quantity if the mixture feels too dry or too wet.
- Bread Crumbs: Panko bread crumbs add a nice texture. If the mixture is too moist, add more bread crumbs gradually.
- Forming the Patties:
- Uniform Size: Shape the patties to a uniform size for even cooking. About 1/2 inch thick is ideal.
- Chilling: Chill the patties in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Cooking the Salmon Cakes:
- Medium Heat: Cook the patties over medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning the outside.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot before adding the patties. This helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Storage and Reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store cooked salmon cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy, golden-brown Salmon Cakes are bursting with flavor and can be served in numerous ways, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Here are some of the best serving ideas to elevate your dining experience.
1. Classic Presentation
- Serve with a side of tartar sauce or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Add a wedge of lemon for a bright, citrusy touch.
2. With a Fresh Salad
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- A cucumber and tomato salad with feta complements the salmon cakes beautifully.
3. As a Sandwich or Wrap
- Serve on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and a creamy sauce.
- Wrap in a lettuce leaf for a low-carb option.
4. Over Grains or Pasta
- Serve over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or couscous.
- Pair with creamy pasta for a comforting meal.
5. Breakfast or Brunch Option
- Top with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce for a salmon cake Benedict.
- Serve with avocado toast and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
6. As an Appetizer
- Make mini salmon cakes and serve with a spicy aioli for dipping.
- Arrange on a platter with pickled onions and capers for an elegant touch.
…and to conclude
This Salmon Cakes Recipe is a game-changer for seafood lovers. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and works for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to elegant appetizers. The combination of flaky salmon, fresh herbs, and a crispy golden crust makes these patties a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, with all the customization options and serving suggestions we covered, you can tailor them to your taste and dietary needs effortlessly.
If you enjoyed this recipe and want to explore more delicious seafood dishes, check out this Miso Salmon Recipe for a rich, umami-packed meal. You might also love these Crab-Stuffed Salmon for a decadent twist on your seafood favorites.
Looking for something beyond salmon? Try this Salmon Poke Bowl for a refreshing, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Give this Salmon Cakes Recipe a try and let us know how it turned out! Whether you serve them on a bun, over a salad, or as a simple main dish, these salmon cakes will surely be a hit in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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