Salmon cakes are a cherished comfort food that many have fond memories of. As someone who grew up enjoying these delightful bites, I can assure you they make for an excellent meal that is perfect any time of year. Whether whipping them up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving them at a lively brunch with friends, salmon cakes offer both delicious flavor and flexibility. The best part? They bring together pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a dish that’s not just easy to make, but also incredibly satisfying.
Crispy Salmon Cakes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Delicious, budget-friendly salmon cakes that are quick to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (14.75 oz) can wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (dill or parsley), chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon thoroughly and set it aside in a mixing bowl.
- In the same bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, Dijon mustard, chopped herbs, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Shape the mixture into patties, approximately 2 inches wide.
- Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm, paired with tartar sauce or fresh lemon juice for an extra zest.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Dish
If you’re on the fence about making crispy salmon cakes, let me share a few compelling reasons. First, they are a budget-friendly option, especially when you use canned wild-caught salmon. Furthermore, they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when you need a filling meal in no time. Cook them for your little ones, and watch their faces light up as they devour the golden, crispy goodness.
“These salmon cakes are a weeknight dinner savior! So easy to make and absolutely delicious!” – Happy Home Chef
How to Make Crispy Salmon Cakes
Understanding the cooking process is essential for a great meal. This recipe is straightforward, guiding you from opening the can of salmon to serving up a plate full of crispy perfection. Here’s a quick overview:
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Total Time: 35 min
With that in mind, let’s gather our ingredients and jump into the cooking process.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious salmon cakes:
- 1 (14.75 oz) can wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (dill or parsley), chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
Feel free to substitute the fresh herbs with dried ones, and if you’re out of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard will do in a pinch.
Directions
Let’s cook! Follow these simple steps to achieve crispy salmon cakes:
- Drain the canned salmon thoroughly and set it aside in a mixing bowl.
- In the same bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, Dijon mustard, chopped herbs, lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Shape the mixture into patties, approximately 2 inches wide.
- Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm, paired with tartar sauce or fresh lemon juice for an extra zest.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving, the options are plentiful. For a delightful meal, pair your salmon cakes with a fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. Alternatively, serve them alongside roasted vegetables for a heartier dish. You can also create a mini sandwich by placing a salmon cake between two slices of crusty bread, adding some lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a light lunch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt that will happen!), you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until they regain their crispy texture. Freezing is also an option; place cooked salmon cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure your salmon cakes turn out perfectly each time, here are some pro tips:
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the salmon. Excess moisture can lead to mushy cakes instead of crispy ones.
- For added texture, consider mixing in some finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or celery.
- If the mixture feels too wet, adding a bit more breadcrumbs can help with binding.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment! You can add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist, or swap out salmon for canned tuna if it’s what you have on hand. For a healthier option, bake the salmon cakes instead of frying them; brush them lightly with oil and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping midway.
Your Questions Answered
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! You can poach or bake fresh salmon and flake it for the recipe. Just ensure it’s fully cooked.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
You could use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute to maintain texture while giving a slightly different flavor.
Crispy salmon cakes are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to bring a nutritious meal to the table. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and happy cooking!