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Savory Salmon Patties

Craving something fancy but tired? These salmon cakes are quick, flavorful, and feel like a treat.

Savory Salmon Patties
Total
25 min
Prep
15 min
Cook
10 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
easy
Calories
313
Cost
$$/serving

When you're exhausted after a long day but still want a dinner that feels special, these salmon patties are your best friend. They offer a satisfying mix of flaky fish and bright citrus without requiring hours over a hot stove. The secret is in the quick sear, which gives them a lovely golden crust while keeping the inside moist and tender. You can whip these up in about 20 minutes, making them perfect for those nights when your energy is low but your standards are still high. The aroma of lemon and herbs hitting the pan creates an instant cozy vibe that makes even a simple weeknight meal feel like a gourmet escape.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz salmon fillet — roughly chopped or pulsed in a food processor
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs — Panko works great for extra crunch
  • 1 unit egg — beaten
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice — freshly squeezed is best
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil — for frying

Method

  1. 1 In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2 Mix everything together with your hands or a sturdy spatula until well combined. Do not overwork the mixture, just enough to incorporate.
  3. 3 Shape the mixture into 8 small patties, about the size of a palm of your hand.
  4. 4 Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes.
  5. 5 Place the patties in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Variations

  • Extra Zesty — Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest into the mix for an extra punch of citrus flavor.
  • Herbaceous Twist — Swap the dried parsley for 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped dill or chives.

Notes

If the mixture feels too wet to hold its shape, add one extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs. Serve with a simple squeeze of lemon and your favorite greens.

Equipment that helps

  • Large Skillet — Provides a steady surface to sear and brown the patties evenly.
  • Mixing Bowl — Keeps your workspace clean while combining the ingredients.

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