Need a fast dinner solution? Try this easy salmon patties recipe made with fresh salmon and pan-seared to perfection for a quick weeknight dinner, save for later

Easy Salmon Patties Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinner

Introduction

Imagine a weeknight dinner that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrients. Our Easy Salmon Patties Recipe is the perfect solution for busy evenings when you want to impress your family with a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Using everyday ingredients and requiring minimal preparation, these salmon patties are a creative way to enjoy salmon, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. The best part? They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite herbs and spices for a dish that’s uniquely yours.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of salmon, onions, garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a well-balanced flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, all the ingredients are easily found in your local grocery store.
• Ease of preparation: With a simple mix-and-form process, these patties are a breeze to make. The prep work is minimal, and you can have them ready to cook in under 10 minutes.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, the end result is impressive. The patties are moist, flavorful, and have a lovely texture that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in our Easy Salmon Patties Recipe include fresh salmon fillets, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, an egg for binding, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, you can also include some chopped fresh parsley or dill. If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use canned salmon as a more affordable option, though fresh will always provide the best flavor and texture. Additionally, if you’re gluten-free, be sure to choose gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. If using fresh parsley or dill, chop these as well. Cut the salmon into small pieces and place them in a food processor. Process the salmon until it’s coarsely chopped, being careful not to overprocess.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Be gentle to avoid compacting the mixture too much.
3. Step 3: Using your hands, shape the salmon mixture into patties, about 1 1/2 inches thick. You should end up with around 4 patties. Place the patties on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Step 4: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and flake easily with a fork. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as a salad, roasted vegetables, or quinoa.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the salmon mixture, as this can make the patties dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and then stop.
• If you find that your patties are too delicate and fall apart, you can add a bit more panko breadcrumbs to help bind them better.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the patties. Cook them one or two at a time, depending on the size of your pan, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.

Heat Control

When cooking the salmon patties, it’s crucial to control the heat to prevent burning or undercooking. Medium heat is ideal, as it allows for a gentle cooking process that helps retain the moisture and flavor of the salmon. If you notice the patties browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. They’re done when they’re cooked through and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for food safety.

Crunch Factor

A nice crunch on the outside and tender interior is what you’re aiming for with these salmon patties. To achieve this, make sure the pan is hot before adding the patties, and don’t move them too much while they’re cooking. This initial sear will help create a nice crust. Additionally, the panko breadcrumbs add a light crunch to the exterior, balancing out the softness of the salmon.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To add extra moisture and flavor, you can brush the patties with a bit of olive oil or melted butter during the last minute of cooking.
• For an extra crispy exterior, coat the patties with a bit more panko breadcrumbs just before cooking, pressing the crumbs gently onto the patties to adhere.
• Consider making the salmon mixture ahead of time and refrigerating or freezing it for later use. This can be a huge time-saver on busy weeknights.

Storage Tips

• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• You can also freeze cooked salmon patties for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to eat them.
• For uncooked patties, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Frozen patties can be cooked straight from the freezer; just add a bit more cooking time.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While salmon patties might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of gifts, they can actually make a thoughtful and unique present, especially for foodies or those looking for a quick, healthy meal solution. Consider packaging cooked and cooled patties in decorative containers or bags, along with a side of tartar sauce or a simple salad. Add a ribbon and a recipe card for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Try adding some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Serve your salmon patties with a variety of toppings such as sliced avocado, pickled onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the salmon with other fish like cod or tilapia for a different flavor profile. You can also add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture for added flavor and nutrients.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your patties are too dense, try adding a bit more panko breadcrumbs or an extra egg to lighten the mixture. If they’re too fragile, refrigerate them for a bit longer to firm up before cooking.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute it with lime juice or even a bit of vinegar for a similar brightness in flavor.
• Over/undercooking signs: Make sure to check the patties frequently while they’re cooking. If they’re overcooked, they’ll be dry and flake apart easily. Undercooked patties will be moist but not flake easily with a fork.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze both cooked and uncooked salmon patties. See the storage tips section for more details.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and proceed with the recipe as instructed. You might need to cook the patties in batches depending on the size of your pan.

Conclusion

Our Easy Salmon Patties Recipe is a versatile and delicious solution for quick weeknight dinners. With its ease of preparation, impressive results, and the potential for countless flavor variations, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own, and enjoy the process of creating a healthy, tasty meal for your loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, making it perfect for anyone looking to elevate their mealtime experience.