Oh my goodness, let me tell you about salmon patties! These little gems are not just any dish; they’re a family favorite that brings back so many warm memories. I remember my mom whipping them up on busy weeknights when we needed a quick meal that didn’t skimp on flavor. Just think about it—canned salmon transformed into crispy, golden patties that are packed with protein and flavor! They’re perfect for a speedy lunch or a satisfying dinner, and you can whip them up in about 20 minutes. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen too. Plus, they’re so versatile! I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of tartar sauce. You won’t believe how easy and delicious they are!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients for these delicious salmon patties is super simple! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can of salmon (14.75 oz), drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use plain or seasoned, depending on your preference)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (this adds a nice crunch and flavor)
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (fresh is best for that vibrant taste)
- 1 egg (this helps bind everything together)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a zesty kick!)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for a bit of warmth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying to golden perfection)
Make sure to prep your onions and parsley beforehand—finely chopping the onion really makes a difference in texture! Trust me, you’ll love how these ingredients come together!
How to Prepare Salmon Patties
Making salmon patties is a breeze! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip these up. It all starts with a simple mix and a little bit of cooking magic. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect salmon patties!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Drain the salmon: Start by opening your can of salmon and draining the liquid. You want the flesh nice and dry to help the patties hold together better.
- Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the drained salmon, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, chopped parsley, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything together gently until it’s well combined. You want the mixture to hold together but not be overmixed—this keeps your patties tender!
- Form the patties: Now, it’s time to get your hands dirty! Shape the mixture into patties, about 2 to 3 inches wide and about half an inch thick. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—each one will have its own character!
- Heat the skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. You want that oil hot enough that it sizzles when you add the patties, but not smoking!
- Cook to golden perfection: Carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they release easily from the pan.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, transfer your beautiful patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm, and don’t forget that squeeze of lemon or your favorite tartar sauce!
And just like that, you’ve got a plate of scrumptious salmon patties ready to devour! These little delights are sure to impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, these salmon patties are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a meal in a flash!
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats from the salmon, these patties are not only delicious but also a great choice for a balanced diet.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, in a sandwich, or even on a salad—salmon patties fit seamlessly into any meal!
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy texture and savory flavor, making them a hit at the dinner table.
- Easy to customize: Feel free to jazz them up with your favorite spices, herbs, or sauces to make them your own!
- Budget-friendly: Using canned salmon makes this dish affordable, so you can enjoy a healthy meal without breaking the bank.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make these delicious salmon patties, let’s talk about a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!
- Don’t skip the draining: Make sure to drain the canned salmon thoroughly. Excess moisture can make it tricky for your patties to hold together, so squeeze out as much liquid as you can.
- Use fresh herbs: If you can, opt for fresh parsley instead of dried. The flavor is brighter and really elevates the dish! You can also experiment with dill or green onions for a delightful twist.
- Be gentle when mixing: It’s tempting to mix vigorously, but be gentle! Overmixing can lead to tough patties. Just combine until everything is nicely incorporated—think light and fluffy!
- Chill the patties: If you have time, let your formed patties chill in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle in the skillet.
- Perfect your frying: Make sure your skillet is at the right temperature before adding the patties. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. If it’s not hot enough, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite spices or sauces to the mix! A dash of hot sauce or some garlic powder can add a fantastic kick. You could even mix in some grated cheese for extra richness!
- Rest before serving: After cooking, let the patties rest on paper towels for a minute. This allows any excess oil to drain off and helps them maintain their crispy texture.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make salmon patties that are not just good but absolutely fantastic! Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about salmon patties is how versatile they can be! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make them your own. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Herb Explosion: Swap out the parsley for fresh dill or chives for a completely different flavor profile. Dill pairs beautifully with salmon!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the patty mixture. It’ll give your salmon patties a nice zing!
- Cheesy Delight: Add a handful of shredded cheese, like cheddar or feta, right into the mix. It melts beautifully and adds extra creaminess!
- Asian Twist: Incorporate some finely chopped green onions, ginger, and a splash of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor. Serve with a soy dipping sauce for a delightful twist!
- Southwestern Style: Add some corn, black beans, and cumin for a southwestern flair. These patties are great served with avocado or salsa!
- Vegetable Boost: Finely diced bell peppers, grated zucchini, or even carrots can be added to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture!
- Breakfast Patties: Transform these into breakfast patties by adding some cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage along with a bit of paprika or smoked paprika for depth.
With these variations, you can keep your salmon patties exciting and fresh each time you make them. Get creative and enjoy the process—it’s all about finding the flavors you love best!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of delicious salmon patties and have some leftovers? No worries! Storing them properly will keep their flavor and texture intact for your next meal.
To store leftover salmon patties, let them cool down to room temperature first. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container, separating each patty with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They should last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you want to make sure they stay crispy and delicious! The best method is to reheat them in a skillet. Just add a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re heated through and crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the microwave, but they might lose some of that lovely crunch. Just heat them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on medium power and check to see if they’re warm enough.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your salmon patties again without sacrificing that amazing flavor and texture. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional goodness packed into these salmon patties! Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving, which is typically one patty:
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of breadcrumbs or the amount of oil for frying. But overall, you’re looking at a nutritious, protein-packed option that’s both satisfying and good for you. Enjoy these delightful patties guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh salmon, just cook and flake it before mixing it with the other ingredients. You’ll want about 1 cup of cooked salmon to replace the canned version. Just be aware that fresh salmon will require a bit more prep time!
What can I serve with salmon patties?
Oh, the options are endless! I love serving them with a crisp green salad, some roasted veggies, or even on a bun with a bit of tartar sauce. They’re also fantastic with a side of mashed potatoes or rice. Get creative!
How do I know when the patties are cooked through?
You’ll want them to be golden brown on the outside and heated all the way through. If you’re unsure, you can always cut one open to check that it’s hot in the center. They should be firm but not dry—just the right balance!
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Sure thing! You can prepare the salmon mixture and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready, shape and cook your patties for a quick meal!
Are salmon patties gluten-free?
Not with regular breadcrumbs, but you can easily make them gluten-free! Just substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy them without worry!
For more information on the health benefits of salmon, check out this Healthline article.
For a delicious side dish, consider pairing your salmon patties with creamy garlic parmesan pasta.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a tasty dessert to complement your meal, try making strawberry cheesecake!
Print
Salmon Patties: 7 Comforting Secrets You Must Try
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Salmon patties are a simple and delicious dish made with canned salmon. They are perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 can of salmon (14.75 oz)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon and place it in a bowl.
- Add breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until combined.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
- Serve with tartar sauce or lemon wedges.
- These patties can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: salmon patties, canned salmon, easy recipe
