Canned Salmon Patties are a budget-friendly, easy-to-make, and delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. These patties are crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, and are perfect for those looking to incorporate more fish into their diet without breaking the bank. This recipe is great for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, as the patties can be made ahead and stored for later.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Canned Salmon Patties, provide variations and serving suggestions, and give you helpful tips for perfecting this simple but flavorful dish.
Recipe Details
- Servings: 4 people (8 patties)
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Type of Meal: Lunch, Dinner
- Meal Classification: Main Dish, Snack
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients for Canned Salmon Patties
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty patties:
- Canned Salmon: 1 can (14.75 oz), drained and flaked (bones removed if preferred)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): 1/2 cup (for binding and coating)
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons (optional for extra moisture)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
- Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Old Bay Seasoning or Cajun Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (for flavor)
- Olive Oil or Butter: For frying
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Ingredient Notes
- Canned Salmon: Using canned salmon is a convenient and affordable option. You can leave the skin and bones for extra nutrition, or remove them based on your preference.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a light, crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well.
- Seasoning: Old Bay seasoning is traditional, but feel free to use Cajun seasoning, paprika, or other favorite spices for extra flavor.
How to Make Canned Salmon Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
- Drain and Flake the Salmon: In a large bowl, drain the canned salmon and flake it with a fork, removing the skin and bones if desired.
- Add the Other Ingredients: To the flaked salmon, add the eggs, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, diced onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and seasoning. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Form the Patties
- Shape the Patties: Divide the salmon mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to bind the patties.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Fry the Patties: Once the oil is hot, add the salmon patties to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the Canned Salmon Patties hot with a squeeze of lemon and a side of tartar sauce, aioli, or a simple green salad. These patties can be served as a main dish or in sandwiches, wraps, or on top of salads.
Tips for Making the Best Canned Salmon Patties
- Chill the Patties Before Frying: If the patties seem too soft, refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes before frying. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better when cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill brightens up the flavors, while lemon zest adds a nice citrusy kick.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the ingredients, be gentle to avoid overworking the salmon. This ensures the patties stay tender.
Variations of Canned Salmon Patties
Spicy Salmon Patties
Add a bit of heat to the patties by mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce into the salmon mixture. Serve with a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free Salmon Patties
To make the patties gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure all other ingredients, such as mustard and seasoning, are gluten-free as well.
Lemon-Dill Salmon Patties
For a fresh, herbaceous variation, replace the parsley with chopped dill and add extra lemon zest to the mixture. Dill complements the salmon beautifully and brings out a fresh, light flavor.
Nutritional Information for Canned Salmon Patties
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (2 patties per person):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | High |
| Vitamin D | High |
These salmon patties are high in protein and healthy fats, making them a nutritious option. The omega-3 fatty acids in the salmon provide heart health benefits, and the dish is relatively low in carbohydrates.
What to Serve with Canned Salmon Patties
Here are some side dishes and accompaniments that pair perfectly with Canned Salmon Patties:
- Tartar Sauce or Aioli: Serve with a creamy dip like tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or even a dill yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon patties.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or carrots for a complete meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair well with the crispy patties, providing a comforting side dish.
- Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity to balance the richness of the salmon patties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
Yes, you can use fresh salmon. Simply cook the salmon (bake, grill, or poach), flake it, and proceed with the recipe. This will give the patties a fresher flavor but will require more preparation time.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying them?
Absolutely! To bake the salmon patties, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.
Can I freeze salmon patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked salmon patties. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator and fry or bake as directed.
Are salmon patties healthy?
Yes, salmon patties are a nutritious meal option. They are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Using whole grain breadcrumbs and baking instead of frying can make them even healthier.
Conclusion
Canned Salmon Patties are an easy, budget-friendly dish that packs a punch of flavor. With a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, these patties are a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet. Whether you serve them as a main dish, snack, or in sandwiches, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your tips, variations, or any fun additions in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s a versatile dish that everyone will love.