I love cooking and sharing recipes that remind me of home, and my Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce do just that. This dish takes me back to summer evenings with my family, where we sat around the dinner table and enjoyed every bite.
I remember my dad, James, frying these patties while my mom, Eva, prepared the sauce. My sister, Jennifer, would have her own little task, setting the table and sneaking bites whenever she could. Cooking these salmon patties always brings back those warm memories.
Your Ingredients List
- 2 cans (6 oz each) salmon, drained and flaked (or 12 oz cooked fresh salmon)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer sauce)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon honey (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
My Go-To Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
The Simple Steps to Follow
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped onion, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir until well incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Let the patties sit for 5-10 minutes to firm up.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey (if using), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the sauce.
- Serve the salmon patties with the creamy lemon-garlic sauce drizzled on top or on the side.
Healthy Twists on a Classic
You can make these patties even healthier by using fresh, cooked salmon instead of canned. Swap breadcrumbs with crushed whole grain crackers or oat flour, and add chopped spinach for some greens. These small changes can pack a nutritional punch while keeping the flavors you love.
Serving Suggestions From My Table
I like to serve these salmon patties alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. You could also pair them with whole-grain rice or a light pasta salad for a complete meal. Adding slices of lemon on the side brightens up the dish and makes it visually appealing.
Getting It Just Right
To ensure your patties hold together well, let them sit before frying. If your mixture feels too wet, just add a bit more bread crumbs until it binds nicely. Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences—I often add a bit more salt and lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the patties for a few minutes on each side until heated through. You can also freeze the patties before cooking. Just thaw and cook as usual when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Enjoy Every Moment
Cooking is about love and sharing. I always make it a point to enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, especially while preparing special dishes like these salmon patties. They remind me to slow down and savor the flavors of life with those I love.
A Few Common Questions
What can I use instead of salmon in salmon patties?
You can use canned tuna or cooked crab meat if you want an alternative. Both options provide a different flavor, but they still work well in this recipe. Just follow the same method for mixing and frying.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option. Place the formed patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method will still give you a nice texture.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you enjoy a spicy kick, add some hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You could also mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of black pepper for extra heat. Adjust it to your liking for a lively flavor twist!
Print
Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A nostalgic dish of salmon patties paired with a creamy lemon-garlic sauce that brings back family memories.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (6 oz each) salmon, drained and flaked (or 12 oz cooked fresh salmon)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer sauce)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon honey (optional)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped onion, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir until well incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Let the patties sit for 5-10 minutes to firm up.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey (if using), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the sauce.
- Serve the salmon patties with the creamy lemon-garlic sauce drizzled on top or on the side.
Notes
For a healthier option, use fresh cooked salmon and whole grain breadcrumbs. Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: salmon patties, creamy sauce, family recipe, easy dinner, nostalgic cooking