Fried Salmon Patties Recipe
Fried salmon patties are a simple and delicious way to enjoy salmon, with crispy edges and a tender, flavorful interior. These patties are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, served with a side of vegetables, over rice, or with a dipping sauce. They are also a great way to use canned salmon if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option!
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon (or fresh cooked salmon, about 1 1/2 cups, flaked)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for a crunchier texture)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, adds freshness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill (optional, for a fresh, herby flavor)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil) for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
- Open the can of salmon and drain the liquid. Flake the salmon with a fork, making sure to remove any bones or skin (although the bones in canned salmon are soft and edible if you prefer to leave them in for extra calcium).
- If using fresh salmon, cook it first by pan-searing, baking, or grilling. Then flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings (onion, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and dill).
- Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold its shape. If it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until it firms up. If it’s too dry, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of water.
3. Shape the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into about 6-8 portions, depending on the size you want your patties.
- Gently form each portion into a patty shape using your hands. Press down lightly to compact them, so they hold together during frying.
4. Fry the Salmon Patties:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches if your skillet is small.
- Gently flip the patties using a spatula, being careful not to break them apart.
5. Drain and Serve:
- Once the patties are cooked and crispy, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce (tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or aioli work wonderfully) and a side of vegetables, salad, or over rice.
Serving Suggestions:
- With a Salad: Serve the salmon patties over a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a lighter meal.
- On a Bun: Place the patties on hamburger buns and top with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce for a salmon burger-style dish.
- With Veggies: Pair with sautéed spinach, roasted potatoes, or steamed broccoli for a hearty, well-rounded meal.
- With Rice or Pasta: Serve over a bed of rice or alongside some pasta for a more filling option.
Tips for Success:
- Moisture Balance: The mixture should be moist enough to hold together but not too wet to fall apart in the pan. Adjust the amount of breadcrumbs and mayonnaise to get the right consistency.
- Crispy Texture: For extra crispy patties, coat them lightly with additional breadcrumbs before frying.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold together better while cooking.
Why You’ll Love These Fried Salmon Patties:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Budget-Friendly: Using canned salmon makes this recipe affordable while still providing the nutritional benefits of fish.
- Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs, mustard, and lemon juice adds a nice depth of flavor to the salmon.
- Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings and mix-ins based on your preferences—add cheese, swap out the herbs, or make them spicier with some hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
These fried salmon patties are sure to be a hit with the whole family! They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal!
