Canned Salmon Patties : A Healthy and Easy Fish Dinner Recipe

Name: Canned Salmon Patties : A Healthy and Easy Fish Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (14.75 oz) can salmon, drained and flaked; 1 large egg; ¼ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary); 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; ¼ cup finely chopped onion; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

June 30, 2025

BySophia

Dinner

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Cooking time

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Servings

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and budget-friendly dinner, canned salmon patties are the perfect choice. These crispy, flavorful salmon patties are made with simple ingredients and can be prepared in just minutes. Whether you’re looking to add more fish to your diet or want an easy weeknight meal, this salmon cakes recipe is the answer.

With the convenience of canned salmon, you can make these salmon patties without the need for fresh fish. Plus, they’re versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways – from a simple dinner to a filling sandwich or even a lunch box snack. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Canned Salmon Patties Recipe

These salmon patties are quick to make, packed with protein, and low in carbs. They’re perfect for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity: you don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients to create a delicious, satisfying dish.

Whether you’re making them as a main dish for a fish dinner, a light lunch, or even a sandwich, salmon patties are always a hit. They’re also an excellent way to use canned salmon and turn it into a meal that feels like a treat. The golden crispy exterior and soft, flaky interior are the perfect texture balance for anyone who loves seafood.

Ingredients for Canned Salmon Patties

Here’s what you’ll need to make these easy and healthy salmon patties:

1 (14.75 oz) can salmon, drained and flaked
1 large egg
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for extra flavor)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

These ingredients come together to create salmon patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The mayonnaise and mustard add creaminess and tang, while the breadcrumbs hold everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Canned Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Open the can of salmon and drain it well. Remove any bones or skin if you prefer (though the bones are edible and packed with calcium). Flake the salmon with a fork until it’s broken up into smaller pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, onion, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the mixture is well combined and holds together when you form a patty.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Using your hands, shape the salmon mixture into small patties, about 1/2 inch thick and 2-3 inches in diameter. You should be able to make about 6-8 patties depending on the size.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your pan.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the salmon patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of vegetables.

Essential Tools for Making Canned Salmon Patties

Here’s what you’ll need to make salmon patties:

Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
Fork or spoon: To flake the salmon.
Skillet or frying pan: For cooking the patties.
Spatula: To flip the patties without breaking them.
Paper towels: To drain the excess oil after frying.

These basic kitchen tools will help you make perfect salmon patties every time.

How to Serve Canned Salmon Patties

Salmon patties can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas for serving:

With a side of vegetables: Pair the patties with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a light meal.
In a sandwich: Serve the patties on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce for a delicious salmon burger.
With a dipping sauce: Try serving the patties with homemade tartar sauce, ketchup, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
In a wrap: Wrap the patties in a tortilla with some greens and a dollop of yogurt or sauce for a quick lunch.

These salmon patties are versatile and can be adapted to fit whatever you’re in the mood for!

How to Store and Reheat Canned Salmon Patties

To store leftovers:

Refrigeration: Allow the salmon patties to cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked patties. Place them in a freezer-safe container and store them for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven or fry them again in a pan until crispy.

These patties are perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed throughout the week!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Salmon Patties

Not draining the salmon properly: Make sure to drain the canned salmon well to avoid excess moisture in your patties, which can make them too soft.
Overcrowding the pan: Fry the patties in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can cause the patties to steam instead of crisping up.
Not letting the patties firm up: Let the salmon patties rest for a minute after frying to ensure they hold together well when served.

Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your salmon patties turn out crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.

Variations of Canned Salmon Patties

Feel free to customize your salmon patties by adding different ingredients or flavors:

Spicy salmon patties: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as dill, thyme, or chives, to change the flavor profile of the patties.
Cheese: Add a small amount of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a creamy, cheesy twist.
Zesty sauce: Try adding lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to the patties for a fresh citrus flavor.

These variations will help you tailor the salmon patties to your taste.

FAQs About Canned Salmon Patties

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked fresh salmon in place of canned salmon. Just flake the cooked salmon and follow the rest of the recipe.

2. Can I make salmon patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them before frying. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

3. How do I make these patties gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs to make the patties gluten-free.

4. Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the patties at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

5. Can I freeze salmon patties?
Yes, freeze the cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or pan-fry them again for best results.

Final Thoughts on Canned Salmon Patties

Canned salmon patties are a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy fish for dinner. They’re packed with protein, low in carbs, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, lunch, or as a snack, these salmon cakes are sure to please.

Give this recipe a try next time you’re craving a healthy, budget-friendly meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition!

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