If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly simple to whip up, this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender flakes of canned salmon with flavorful sautéed veggies, zesty seasoning, and a crispy golden crust, these salmon patties deliver a perfect balance of taste and texture every single time. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe proves that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe lies in how straightforward and essential each ingredient is, contributing to layers of flavor, texture, and irresistible color. From the rich salmon base to the fresh parsley, every item plays a starring role in this delightful dish.
- 14-15 ounce canned salmon: Well drained, this is your protein-packed, flavorful foundation.
- Olive oil: Used in two stages, it adds moisture and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy note that complements the savory salmon perfectly.
- Medium yellow onion: Finely diced and sautéed, it brings sweetness and depth to the patties.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and subtle crisp texture after sautéing.
- Panko bread crumbs: The secret to a light, crispy coating that holds everything together.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder to keep your patties perfectly shaped.
- Mayonnaise: Offers a subtle creaminess and moisture to the mixture.
- Worcestershire sauce: Gives a tangy, umami boost that wakes up the flavors.
- Garlic salt: Or a mix of sea salt and garlic powder enhances the savory notes.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat to balance the dish.
- Fresh parsley: Finely minced for a burst of freshness and color.
How to Make Easy Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking them until they’re wonderfully soft and golden. This step is crucial because the warm sweetness of these veggies will meld beautifully into the patties. Once softened, set them aside to cool slightly before combining.
Step 2: Mix the Salmon Patty Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently flake the drained salmon, making sure there are no large chunks. Add in the sautéed onions and peppers, followed by the panko bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Use a fork or your hands to combine everything without overworking it—this keeps the patties tender and moist.
Step 3: Shape Your Patties
Next, form the mixture into beautiful patties about 2 inches wide and around 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. This size is perfect for cooking evenly and achieving that crisp exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly uniform; rustic shapes carry character and homemade charm.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon Patties
Heat the remaining tablespoon each of olive oil and butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place your patties in the pan, giving them enough space so they don’t stick together. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. The goal is a crispy crust with a tender heart, and this balance is key to the recipe’s success.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your patties are perfectly golden, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels briefly to drain any excess oil. Serve them immediately while they’re nice and warm for the best taste and texture experience.
How to Serve Easy Salmon Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your salmon patties elevates their flavor and appearance. Fresh lemon wedges are a classic choice, as a little squeeze brightens the entire dish. A dollop of tartar sauce or a spoonful of creamy aioli also pairs wonderfully. For a fresh herbal touch, sprinkle some extra finely chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
These patties pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast, or some steamed veggies like asparagus or green beans. Roasted potatoes or a simple coleslaw also work well, rounding out the meal with hearty and crunchy textures that complement the soft salmon patties.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little creative, try serving your salmon patties atop toasted English muffins with a leaf of lettuce and a smear of your favorite sauce for homemade salmon sliders. Another delightful idea is placing them over warm quinoa or couscous with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad to turn this easy recipe into an impressive plated dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Easy Salmon Patties Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 3 days, giving you quick, tasty meals or snacks at a moment’s notice.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze these patties. Place them on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer the patties to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they’ll keep for up to 3 months without losing their delicious flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat your salmon patties, the best way is to warm them in a skillet over medium heat. This helps maintain their crispy crust while heating the inside evenly. You can also use a toaster oven or conventional oven to reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, but avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for canned salmon for convenience, using cooked fresh salmon can add a wonderful freshness. Just make sure it’s well flaked and cooled before mixing with the other ingredients.
How do I prevent my salmon patties from falling apart?
The key is the combination of the egg and panko bread crumbs, which act as binders. Don’t skip these ingredients, and avoid overmixing your patties so they stay tender but hold together well during cooking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! To keep this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe gluten-free, substitute the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers without compromising on texture.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you prefer to skip mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute, adding moisture and a touch of tanginess to your patties.
Are these salmon patties suitable for kids?
Definitely! These patties are mild in flavor and have a fun crispy texture kids tend to love. They’re a great way to introduce more seafood into children’s diets in a familiar and tasty way.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Easy Salmon Patties Recipe. It’s a warm, comforting dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients and delivers big on flavor. Once you try it, these patties might just become your go-to for busy nights or casual gatherings. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to something delicious and homemade tonight!
