Salmon Cakes Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and How To Make 2025

Salmon cakes recipe, also known as salmon patties, are a delightful blend of flaky fish, savory herbs, and crispy exteriors. This versatile dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, brunches, or as an appetizer for gatherings. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of crafting the perfect salmon cake, ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of flavor and texture.

**What Are Salmon Cakes?**

Salmon cakes are pan-fried patties made by combining cooked or canned salmon with binders like eggs and breadcrumbs, and flavor enhancers such as herbs, spices, and vegetables. They offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of salmon, including high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Choosing Between Fresh and Canned Salmon

While fresh salmon provides a rich flavor and firm texture, canned salmon is a convenient and budget-friendly alternative. For instance, Southern Living offers a classic recipe utilizing canned salmon, emphasizing its ease and accessibility. On the other hand, Natasha’s Kitchen showcases a recipe that highlights the depth of flavor achieved with fresh salmon.Southern

Essential Ingredients for Salmon Cakes

To create flavorful and cohesive salmon cakes, consider the following components:

Protein Base: Fresh or canned salmon, flaked
Binders: Eggs, mayonnaise, and breadcrumbs
Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and herbs like parsley or dill
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, lemon zest, and optional spices like paprika or Old Bay seasoning
Optional Add-ins: Chopped bell peppers, celery, or capers for added texture and flavor

Preparing the Salmon

Using Fresh Salmon

Cook the Salmon: Bake or poach the salmon until fully cooked.
Cool and Flake: Allow the salmon to cool, then flake it into small pieces, removing any skin or bones.

Using Canned Salmon

Drain: Thoroughly drain the canned salmon to remove excess liquid.
Remove Skin and Bones: If present, remove any skin and bones.
Flake: Gently flake the salmon into small pieces.

**Crafting the Perfect Salmon Cake Mixture**

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the flaked salmon with binders, aromatics, seasonings, and any optional add-ins.
Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, incorporate a bit more mayonnaise.Food
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into uniform patties, ensuring they hold together well.
Chill: Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up before cooking.

Cooking Techniques

Pan-Frying

Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
Cook Patties: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and heated through.

Baking

Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Bake Patties: Place the patties on the sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Air-Frying

Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Cook Patties: Place the patties in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your salmon cakes with these accompaniments:

Sauces: Tartar sauce, aioli, or a buttermilk dressing Southern
Sides: Mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf
Garnishes: Lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of paprika

Variations and Dietary Adaptations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers as a binder.
Low-Carb/Keto: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
International Twists:
- Asian-Inspired: Add grated ginger, soy sauce, and green onions.Food Network
- Mediterranean: Incorporate feta cheese, olives, and oregano.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store cooked salmon cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place cooled patties on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the ingredients in salmon cakes?

The basic ingredients include:

Salmon (fresh or canned)
Eggs as a binder
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
Onion, garlic, and herbs
Mayonnaise or mustard for moisture
Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika or Old Bay

Optional ingredients like bell peppers, celery, or cheese can enhance flavor and texture.

How do you keep salmon patties from falling apart?

To prevent patties from crumbling:

Ensure a proper balance of moisture and binding ingredients
Chill the patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking
Use enough eggs and breadcrumbs to hold the mixture together
Avoid overmixing, which can break down the texture

What spices are good in salmon patties?

Popular spices and seasonings include:

Garlic powder
Paprika
Dill
Parsley
Old Bay seasoning
Lemon zest
A dash of cayenne pepper for heat

These enhance the natural flavor of the salmon without overpowering it.

Do you put mayo in salmon patties?

Yes, mayonnaise is often added to:

Add creaminess and moisture
Help bind the ingredients
Enhance flavor

Alternatively, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for a lighter option.

What goes best with salmon patties?

Pair your salmon cakes with:

Tartar sauce, aioli, or spicy remoulade
Sides like green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes
Light grains such as quinoa, rice pilaf, or couscous

Fresh lemon wedges and herbs make great finishing touches.

Is canned salmon already cooked?

Yes, canned salmon is fully cooked and ready to eat. It can be used directly in recipes like salmon patties or salads after draining and flaking.

What sauce for salmon patties?

Top sauces include:

Tartar sauce
Garlic aioli
Lemon-dill yogurt sauce
Hot sauce or sriracha mayo for a spicy kick

Choose based on your flavor preference or side dish pairing.

Can you eat the bones in canned salmon?

Yes, the bones in canned salmon are edible, soft, and rich in calcium. However, they can be removed for texture preference if desired.

What is the main ingredient in salmon?

The main ingredient is, of course, salmon, which is rich in:

Omega-3 fatty acids
Protein
Vitamin D and B12

It’s the nutritional core of the dish and defines its flavor and texture.

What are the main ingredients in tres leches cake?

Unrelated to salmon patties, but for reference, tres leches cake includes:

Sponge cake
A mixture of three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream)
Whipped cream topping

This dessert has no relation to salmon patties but is often confused in search queries.

Conclusion

Salmon cakes are a timeless and versatile dish that effortlessly blends convenience, nutrition, and flavor. Whether you’re using fresh salmon for a gourmet touch or canned salmon for quick weeknight meals, these patties can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary preference. By mastering the balance of binders, seasonings, and cooking methods, you can achieve golden, crispy cakes with a moist, flavorful interior every time.

From casual lunches to elegant starters, salmon patties shine with the right sauces and sides. With the tips and techniques covered here, you’ll be able to craft a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply satisfying and nourishing. Keep experimenting with spices, fillings, and regional variations to make your salmon cakes recipe uniquely your own.