Stepping into my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the thought of whipping up some Savory Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon. This delicious recipe combines the comfort of home-cooked meals with the ease of pantry staples, making it a true weeknight savior. Just envision the golden-brown patties sizzling in the skillet, filling the room with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table.
One day, after a particularly uninspiring fast-food experience, I craved something flavorsome yet effortless. That’s when I stumbled upon a can of wild-caught salmon lingering in the pantry. With just a handful of simple ingredients—fresh herbs, lemon zest, and a hint of green onions—I transformed that can into delightful salmon cakes that even the pickiest eaters couldn’t resist.
Not only are these cakes quick to prepare, but they also pack a protein punch and can be customized to your taste. Whether paired with a zesty tartar sauce or a light salad, I assure you, these savory bites will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why are Savory Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon a must-try?
Quick & Easy: These savory salmon cakes come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutrient-Packed: With 10g of protein per serving, they not only satisfy your taste buds but also fuel your day.
Budget-Friendly: Using canned salmon ensures you can create a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in other herbs or spices you love for a unique twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will devour these tasty treats, proving you can enjoy homemade goodness, even on a hectic day!
Ingredients for Savory Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon
Get ready to create something delicious with these simple ingredients!
For the Salmon Cakes
• Canned wild-caught salmon – A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, elevating both flavor and nutrition.
• Plain breadcrumbs – These provide the perfect binding agent to hold your cakes together.
• Large eggs – Eggs help bind the ingredients, ensuring your patties are moist and delicious.
• Fresh dill (or dried) – This herb adds a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances the salmon.
• Fresh lemon juice – A splash of lemon brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the salmon.
• Green onions – These offer a mild onion taste while adding color and texture to the cakes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all the flavors together, be generous!
• Olive oil for frying – Use this for a golden, crispy exterior that makes these cakes irresistible.
Feel free to mix it up and customize your Savory Salmon Cakes!
How to Make Savory Salmon Cakes
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Gather Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients in a large mixing bowl, making the process seamless and enjoyable. Flake the canned salmon thoroughly into the bowl for an even mix.
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Mix Together: Add in the breadcrumbs, eggs, dill, lemon juice, green onions, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined, taking care not to overmix for tender patties.
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Shape Patties: Form the mixture into small patties, roughly 2 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined plate to keep them neat and ready for cooking.
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Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. It’s the perfect temperature to create that delightful crispy texture you crave!
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Cook Patties: Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet, frying them in batches without overcrowding. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color.
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. Serve the cakes warm, paired with tartar sauce or lemon wedges for an extra zing!
Optional: Garnish with fresh dill or a sprinkle of paprika for a little extra flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Savory Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon
Fridge: Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next meal!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side until heated through and crispy.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep the salmon cakes at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips for Savory Salmon Cakes
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Perfect Texture: Ensure not to overmix the ingredients; gentle mixing keeps the patties light and flaky, ensuring your savory salmon cakes have the right texture.
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Proper Cooking Temperature: Keep the skillet at medium heat for even cooking; too hot may burn the cakes before they’re cooked through.
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Resting Time: If possible, let the patties chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better while frying.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to customize your savory salmon cakes by adding other herbs or spices, like garlic powder or red pepper flakes, to match your taste preferences.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the patties in batches without overcrowding the skillet—this allows for proper browning and prevents steaming, ensuring you achieve that desired crispy exterior.
What to Serve with Savory Salmon Cakes?
Imagine a family dinner where every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures, perfectly complementing your savory salmon cakes.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a delightful crunch and a burst of color, balancing the richness of the salmon cakes beautifully. The thirst-quenching greens paired with a light vinaigrette cleanse the palate.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes offer comfort that pairs harmoniously with the savory salmon. The garlic enhances the flavor profile, creating a cozy dining experience.
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Roasted Asparagus: Simply roasted asparagus brings both elegance and a pop of color to your plate. The slightly charred edges and tender stalks provide a wonderful contrast to the flaky salmon cakes.
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Sweet Potato Fries: For a twist on classic fries, sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness that complements the savoriness of the salmon. Their crispy outside and soft inside create a delightful texture contrast.
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Lemon Herb Rice: Light and fragrant, this fluffy rice dish with herbs pairs effortlessly with the salmon cakes. Its subtle lemon notes elevate the overall meal, making every bite refreshing.
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Tartar Sauce: A side of creamy tartar sauce is a must for dipping. Its zesty flavor pairs perfectly, giving the savory salmon cakes an extra zing.
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White Wine: Pair your meal with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc; its citrusy notes enhance the lemony flavors in the salmon cakes while complementing the herbs used.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your meal with a rich chocolate mousse for a sweet yet light dessert. Its smooth texture beautifully contrasts the savory cakes and leaves a lasting impression.
With these delightful pairings, your meal becomes an unforgettable feast that brings the whole family together!
Savory Salmon Cakes Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your savory salmon cakes; your taste buds will thank you!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out plain breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to gluten sensitivities.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a zesty heat that adds excitement to every bite.
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Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of dill for a unique flavor profile that surprises the palate.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or feta, to create a rich, gooey texture that elevates each patty.
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Veggie Lovers: Blend in finely diced bell peppers or zucchini to add color, flavor, and a nutritious twist to your salmon cakes.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate zest from one lemon along with the juice for a brighter, more vibrant citrus flavor that enhances the salmon.
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Savory Asian Twist: Replace dill with chopped green onions and add soy sauce to the mix for a delicious Asian-inspired flavor profile.
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Baked Option: For a healthier alternative, place the shaped patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance, simply combining the drained salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, dill, lemon juice, green onions, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate it to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, you can shape the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days; just make sure to separate each layer with parchment paper to maintain their shape and prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your olive oil in a skillet, fry the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown, and enjoy delicious, homemade salmon cakes with minimal effort!
Savory Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best canned salmon?
Absolutely! When selecting canned salmon, look for labels that say “wild-caught” as they often offer better flavor and higher omega-3 content. Check for cans that are not dented or bulging, and ensure the salmon is packed in water or olive oil for the best taste and moisture.
How long can I store leftover salmon cakes?
Very! You can store leftover Savory Salmon Cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture, making them perfect for a quick meal later in the week.
Can I freeze these salmon cakes? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cooked salmon cakes, first freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet for that crispy finish!
What should I do if my salmon cakes are falling apart while cooking?
If you find your patties are falling apart, try adding a little more breadcrumb or an extra egg to the mixture, which help binds the ingredients. Additionally, allowing the patties to chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes before cooking can help them hold their shape better during frying.
Are these salmon cakes suitable for those with allergies?
Very! If you or anyone you’re cooking for has a gluten allergy, you can substitute the plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats. For egg allergies, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), which binds the ingredients just as well. As always, please check the labels for any cross-contamination risks based on specific allergies.
How can I keep my salmon cakes crispy when reheating?
To maintain that wonderful crispy texture, when reheating, avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy. Instead, place the salmon cakes in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side until they’re heated through and regain their crispiness. Enjoy that delightful crunch again!
Savory Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon: Easy & Delicious!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients in a large mixing bowl, making the process seamless and enjoyable. Flake the canned salmon thoroughly into the bowl for an even mix.
- Mix Together: Add in the breadcrumbs, eggs, dill, lemon juice, green onions, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined, taking care not to overmix for tender patties.
- Shape Patties: Form the mixture into small patties, roughly 2 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined plate to keep them neat and ready for cooking.
- Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. It's the perfect temperature to create that delightful crispy texture you crave!
- Cook Patties: Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet, frying them in batches without overcrowding. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. Serve the cakes warm, paired with tartar sauce or lemon wedges for an extra zing!
