Name: Easy Salmon Cakes (Salmon Patties) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Fusion with Middle Eastern spice influences
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets (around 250g); 4 medium boiling potatoes; 2 spring onions (scallions), finely chopped; Few sprigs of cilantro (fresh coriander), finely chopped; Squeeze of lemon juice; 1 egg, lightly beaten; ¼ teaspoon mustard; ¼ teaspoon turmeric; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon 7 spice; ¼ teaspoon dried coriander; ¼ teaspoon sumac; Salt to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; Panko breadcrumbs for dipping; Small amount of mild olive oil (for initial salmon cooking)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 11 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the delicate flavor of fresh fish with a golden, crispy exterior, then you’re going to love this Easy Salmon Cakes (Salmon Patties) Recipe. It’s a perfect balance of light, flaky salmon and creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned just right with bright herbs and warming spices. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or something impressive yet simple for guests, these salmon cakes will wow your taste buds and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows two pieces of cooked salmon fillets placed side by side on a white plate. Each fillet has a light orange color with a slightly crispy texture on the surface. The salmon has visible lines from the natural muscle fibers, and the fillets have uneven edges with some lighter and darker orange shades, giving a fresh and tender look. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and there are no additional garnishes or items in the frame. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful harmony of each ingredient. Every component plays a role—whether it’s contributing moisture, texture, or flavor—making these salmon cakes taste extraordinary without any fuss.

Salmon fillets (2, around 250g): Fresh or thawed, this is the star protein, flaky and full of richness.
Boiling potatoes (4 medium): Mashed to creamy perfection, they hold the patties together and add a subtle earthiness.
Spring onions (2): Fresh and crisp, they offer a mild onion flavor, adding brightness and crunch.
Cilantro (a few sprigs): Fresh coriander gives a lovely herbal lift that makes every bite pop.
Lemon juice (a squeeze): Just enough acidity to brighten and balance the richness of the salmon.
Egg (1, lightly beaten): Acts as a binder, holding everything snugly together.
Mustard (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle tang and complexity to the flavor profile.
Turmeric (¼ teaspoon): Provides warm color and a mild earthiness.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Imparts a smoky-sweet note and enhances color.
7 spice (¼ teaspoon): A blend of warming spices that gives unique depth.
Dried coriander (¼ teaspoon): Amplifies the fresh cilantro with a gentle citrus touch.
Sumac (¼ teaspoon): Offers a tangy, lemony zing that lifts the whole dish.
Salt (to taste): Essential for balancing flavors and making everything shine.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Provides that golden, crispy crust everyone loves.
Panko breadcrumbs (for dipping): Creates a light, crunchy coating that keeps the patties tender inside.

How to Make Easy Salmon Cakes (Salmon Patties) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by boiling your potatoes until they’re soft enough that a knife slides through effortlessly. Drain them well, then peel and mash them with a fork until smooth but still slightly textured—this mixture will be the creamy bait that brings all your salmon patties together beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Next, gently pan-fry the salmon fillets in a little olive oil, seasoned with a pinch of turmeric and paprika. Cook them on medium heat for about five minutes until just done—this preserves the moistness and delicate texture of the fish. Once cooked, flake the salmon into your bowl of mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Assemble the Mixture

Chop your spring onions and cilantro finely before tossing them into the bowl. Add the mustard, turmeric, paprika, 7 spice, dried coriander, sumac, salt, a squeeze of lemon juice, and the beaten egg. Mix everything just until combined—you want the ingredients to marry without overworking the mixture, which could make your patties dense.

Step 4: Form and Chill the Patties

Shape small balls of the salmon mixture and press each one gently into the panko breadcrumbs, coating them evenly. Place your newly formed patties on a plate and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is key because it helps the salmon cakes hold their shape during frying, so you get that perfect golden crust without them falling apart.

Step 5: Fry the Salmon Cakes

In a wide pan, heat a thin layer of vegetable oil on medium for about five minutes. Fry the salmon patties for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden-brown and crispy. This method seals in the moisture, giving you a crunchy outside with a tender, flavorful inside that’s downright addictive.

How to Serve Easy Salmon Cakes (Salmon Patties) Recipe

The image shows three round, golden-brown patties with a crunchy texture on the outside, placed closely together on a white plate decorated with colorful floral and feather designs in purple, pink, and black. The patties have a slightly uneven surface with visible small bits of green and orange inside, suggesting mixed vegetables or herbs. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving these salmon cakes with simple garnishes like fresh lemon wedges adds a bright zing that cuts through their richness. A sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro or a dash of sumac makes the presentation pop and the flavor vibrant.

Side Dishes

These salmon cakes pair beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with citrus, or even a creamy aioli dip if you’re feeling fancy. Roasted vegetables or a zesty slaw also complement the texture and flavor perfectly, making your meal balanced and exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to jazz things up? Serve your salmon patties atop toasted buns with crunchy lettuce and tangy pickles for a gourmet sandwich experience. Or place them on a bed of wilted greens drizzled with a lemony vinaigrette for a light yet satisfying plate that delights the eye and palate alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any salmon cakes left over, pop them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. They keep well and remain delicious, making for a ready-made lunch or dinner that’s just as tasty as fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked patties by placing them on a lined tray and freezing until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and fry as usual for a fresh-from-the-pan taste anytime.

Reheating

To reheat cooked salmon cakes, the best method is a gentle pan-fry or oven warming to maintain their crisp crust. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess—reheating this way preserves all the texture and flavor that makes this Easy Salmon Cakes (Salmon Patties) Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh fillets?

Absolutely! Canned salmon is a convenient substitute and still gives you that delicious salmon flavor. Just make sure to drain it well and adjust the seasoning since canned varieties can vary in saltiness.

What if I'm allergic to eggs, can I skip it?

The egg helps bind the patties, but you can replace it with a flax or chia egg (a tablespoon of ground seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or even some mashed avocado for moisture.

Are there alternatives to panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, but panko gives the lightest, crunchiest coating. If you want to keep it gluten-free, crushed cornflakes or almond meal work well too.

Can I bake the salmon cakes instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier option. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden.

How do I know when the salmon cakes are fully cooked?

They should be golden brown on the outside and heated through on the inside. The patties will feel firm to the touch but still moist inside—with a wonderful flakiness from the salmon.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about making and sharing this Easy Salmon Cakes (Salmon Patties) Recipe. It brings together simple ingredients in such a flavorful and comforting way that you’ll keep coming back to it again and again. So go ahead, dive into making these salmon patties—they’re sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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