Salmon cakes are a simple yet elegant dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even as a sandwich filling. Whether you use fresh salmon or canned salmon, these crispy, flavorful cakes are packed with protein and healthy fats.
If you love comfort food with bold flavors, you may also enjoy Mississippi Roast – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe, another delicious and satisfying dish that pairs well with homemade sides.
Before we dive into the details, let’s explore why salmon cakes are a must-try meal and how they can be adapted to suit different dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love These Salmon Cakes
✔ Crispy and flavorful – The perfect combination of crunch and tenderness.
✔ Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Healthy – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.
✔ Versatile – Great for meal prep, sandwiches, or served with fresh salads.
If you enjoy flavor-packed, easy-to-make dishes, you might also like Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches—another high-protein meal with bold seasonings.
Ingredients for the Perfect Salmon Cakes
To create crispy, flavorful salmon cakes, you’ll need a mix of binding ingredients, seasonings, and texture enhancers.
Main Ingredients
- Salmon – Fresh or canned salmon (drained and flaked).
- Breadcrumbs or Panko – Essential for a crispy exterior.
- Eggs – Helps bind everything together.
- Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess.
- Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavor with a tangy touch.
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the dish.
- Fresh Herbs – Dill, parsley, or chives for freshness.
- Old Bay Seasoning or Paprika – Adds depth and warmth.
Optional Flavor Boosters
- Parmesan Cheese – A subtle umami kick.
- Hot Sauce or Cayenne Pepper – For those who love spice.
- Capers or Pickles – Adds a tangy, briny contrast.
Healthy Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour.
- Dairy-Free: Use mashed avocado instead of mayonnaise.
- Low-Carb: Try crushed pork rinds in place of breadcrumbs.
How to Make Salmon Cakes
1. Prepare the Salmon
- If using fresh salmon, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Let it cool and flake it into small pieces.
- If using canned salmon, drain well and remove any bones or skin.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- Stir well until fully combined.
- Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes to help with shaping.
3. Shape the Patties
- Use a ¼ cup measure to scoop portions.
- Shape into patties, about ½ inch thick.
4. Cooking Options
🔥 Pan-Frying (Best for Crispiness)
- Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook each salmon cake for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
🔥 Baking (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🔥 Air-Frying (Quick & Easy)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the patties with oil.
- Air-fry for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
The Secret to Crispy Salmon Cakes
Want the crispiest salmon cakes? Follow these pro tips:
✅ Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
✅ Chill the mixture before frying to prevent crumbling.
✅ Avoid overcrowding the pan—this ensures even crisping.
✅ For extra crunch, coat the patties with a light flour dusting before frying.
Best Sauces & Side Dishes for Salmon Cakes
Dipping Sauces
- Classic Tartar Sauce – A creamy, tangy favorite.
- Sriracha Mayo – A spicy, creamy complement.
- Lemon Garlic Aioli – A bright, garlicky enhancement.
Side Dishes
- Fresh Salads – Arugula & fennel salad or citrus avocado salad.
- Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
- Grains & Starches – Mashed potatoes, quinoa, or brown rice.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
✔ Fridge: Store cooked salmon cakes in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
✔ Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheating: Air-fry or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.
FAQs About Salmon Cakes
🔹 Why do my salmon cakes fall apart?
- Make sure to chill the mixture before shaping.
- Use enough binding ingredients like egg and mayo.
🔹 Can I make salmon cakes without breadcrumbs?
- Yes! Substitute with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
🔹 What’s the best way to reheat salmon cakes?
- The best method is to air-fry or bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
🔹 Are salmon cakes healthy?
- Absolutely! They are high in protein, healthy fats, and low in carbs.
Final Thoughts
Making scrumptious salmon cakes at home is simple and rewarding. With fresh ingredients, the right seasonings, and proper cooking techniques, you can enjoy a crispy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
If you love quick and easy seafood dishes, check out The Ultimate Guide to Air Fryer Shrimp for another healthy and crispy meal idea.
🚀 Try this recipe today and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade salmon cakes! 🍽️
Scrumptious Salmon Cakes: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients for Scrumptious Salmon Cakes
Main Ingredients
- Salmon – 1 lb fresh salmon (cooked and flaked) or 1 can (14-15 oz) salmon, drained
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or Panko – for texture and crispiness
- 1 egg – for binding
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt – for moisture
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – for flavor
- 1 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tsp lemon zest – for brightness
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives), chopped
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning or paprika – for seasoning
- ½ tsp salt & ¼ tsp black pepper – to taste
Optional Additions
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for extra umami
- ½ tsp hot sauce or cayenne pepper – for a spicy kick
- 1 tbsp capers or finely chopped pickles – for tanginess
Instructions
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter – for pan-frying
- Flour or additional breadcrumbs – for an extra crispy coating (optional)
Instructions for Salmon Cakes
1. Prepare the Salmon
- If using fresh salmon, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.
- Let it cool, then flake into small pieces.
- If using canned salmon, drain well and remove any bones or skin.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice & zest, herbs, and seasonings.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes (this helps with shaping).
3. Shape the Patties
- Use a ¼ cup measure to scoop out portions.
- Shape into ½-inch thick patties.
- For extra crispiness, lightly coat each patty with flour or breadcrumbs.
4. Cook the Salmon Cakes
🔥 Pan-Frying (Best for Crispiness)
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook each salmon cake for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
🔥 Baking (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🔥 Air-Frying (Quick & Easy)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray patties with cooking oil.
- Air-fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🚀 Enjoy your crispy, flavorful salmon cakes with your favorite dipping sauce! 🍽️