Try this easy and delicious old fashioned salmon patties recipe for a crispy, flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. Quick, healthy, and tasty!
1 can (14.75 oz) of pink or red salmon (drained and flaked)
Tip: You can use fresh salmon if you preferbut canned salmon is a time-saving option that still tastes amazing!
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbsdepending on your flavor preference. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free version, swap these out for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
1 large egg
This binds the patties togethercreating that perfect texture and helping everything hold together while cooking.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps the patties stay moist. You can also swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
Onions provide that savory depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder tasteuse green onions or shallots.
1 tablespoon lemon juice
The fresh zing from lemon juice brightens up the flavors of the salmon. Feel free to add some lemon zest for an extra citrus punch!
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill (optional, but highly recommended!)
Herbs like parsley or dill add freshness to the patties. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or chives to suit your taste.
1/2 teaspoon salt
Don’t skip the salt—this helps bring out the natural flavors of the salmon and the other ingredients.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pepper adds just the right amount of subtle heat to balance out the creaminess of the mayo and the richness of the salmon.
Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
You’ll need a couple of tablespoons of oil to fry the patties to golden perfection. Olive oil is a great choice for its flavorbut vegetable oil works too if you’re looking for a more neutral option.
Optional:
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For a slight tangDijon mustard works beautifully in these salmon patties. It pairs well with the richness of the fish and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
If you’re using canned salmon, simply drain it and give it a good flake with a fork to break it into smaller pieces. Make sure to remove any bones, though many canned salmon varieties have soft, edible bones that are perfectly fine to leave in for extra calcium!
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, egg, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs (parsley or dill are great options). Stir until everything is well combined. This will be the base that holds the salmon patties together.
Add the Salmon and Dry Ingredients
Add the flaked salmon to the bowl, followed by the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. If you’re using Dijon mustard or any other optional spices, now’s the time to toss them in! Gently mix everything together with a spatula or your hands. You want the mixture to be well combined but not overworked—just enough to hold the patties together.
Form the Patties
Now, the fun part—shaping the patties! Use your hands to form the mixture into small, round cakes, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Press gently to compact them, but not too tightly. This will help the patties stay intact while cooking but keep them tender inside.
Cook the Patties
Heat a tablespoon of oil (olive or vegetable) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want each patty to have enough space to cook evenly. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Flip them gently to avoid breaking them apart.
Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy and not too greasy. Serve hot and enjoy!