Salmon Cakes – Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside

Salmon Cakes are a delicious and versatile dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. Made with flaky salmon, fresh herbs, and a crispy exterior, these cakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal. They can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even enjoyed in a sandwich, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This salmon cakes recipe is perfect for those who appreciate big flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender salmon, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs creates a delightful taste that will impress your family and friends. Plus, they are easy to make, using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. For those following a healthy lifestyle, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, making these cakes not just delicious but nutritious as well.

Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor. If you can, opt for wild-caught salmon.
• If you have leftover salmon from a previous meal, it’s perfect for this recipe—just flake it and use it in the cakes.
• Don’t skip chilling the mixture before forming the cakes; this helps them hold their shape during cooking.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the mixture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the salmon can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it while cooking and remove it from heat as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Avoid using too much filler, like breadcrumbs or flour. The salmon should be the star of the dish, so keep the fillers minimal.
• Not seasoning the mixture well enough can result in bland cakes. Taste the mixture before cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salmon mixture up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you prefer, you can also shape the cakes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. They will stay fresh for up to 24 hours.

Recipe Variations

• Swap out salmon for canned tuna or crab meat for a different seafood flavor.
• For a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the mixture.
• Try adding different herbs like dill or cilantro, or even a touch of garlic for added depth.
• Cook the cakes by air frying for a healthier option or bake them in the oven for an easy hands-free method.

How to Serve

Once cooked, serve your salmon cakes warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top. Pair them with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast, or serve them on a toasted bun with lettuce and tartar sauce for a delightful sandwich. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color.

Pairing Suggestions

For a drink pairing, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager will complement the flavors of the salmon beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea would work wonderfully. As for sides, consider serving with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a creamy coleslaw for a satisfying meal.

How to Store

Store any leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Fork for flaking salmon
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Spatula for flipping
• Baking sheet (if baking)

Dietary Adaptations

For a vegan version of salmon cakes, try using chickpeas or lentils as a base, combined with seaweed for a seafood flavor. You can also make them gluten-free by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs. For dairy-free options, omit any dairy ingredients or use a plant-based alternative.

Seasonal Adaptations

In the summer, add fresh corn or diced bell peppers to the mixture for a sweet crunch. In the fall, consider incorporating diced apples or butternut squash for a seasonal twist. During winter, use canned or frozen salmon for convenience, while still maintaining the flavor of the dish.

Cost Breakdown

The estimated cost for making salmon cakes is around $2.50 to $3.00 per serving, depending on the price of salmon in your area. To make it more budget-friendly, consider using canned salmon instead of fresh, which can significantly reduce the cost while still offering great taste.

Kitchen Hacks

• To easily flake the salmon, use a fork and work it gently—this will help maintain the texture.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked salmon or leftover salmon from another meal.
• To avoid messy hands when shaping the cakes, wet your hands slightly before forming them.

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, canned salmon works well! Just drain it and flake it before using.

Q: How long should I cook the salmon cakes?
A: Cook the cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and heated through.

Q: Can I bake the salmon cakes instead of frying them?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Yield: 4

Salmon Cakes

Print

Salmon Cakes are a delicious and versatile dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. Made with flaky salmon, fresh herbs, and a crispy exterior, these cakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal.

Prep Time 30 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Additional Time 30 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh salmon (or canned salmon)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying

Instructions

1. If using fresh salmon, cook it by baking or pan-searing until it’s fully cooked. Allow it to cool, then flake it into a mixing bowl.
2. In the bowl with the flaked salmon, add breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, green onions, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
4. Shape the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
5. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon cakes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
8. Serve warm with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 431Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 124mgSodium 349mgCarbohydrates 11gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 29g

Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

Salmon cakes are a delightful dish that can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. They’re not only simple to make but are also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re preparing them for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this salmon cakes recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different variations, and most importantly, savor each bite!