There’s nothing quite like the crispy, golden perfection of an old fashioned salmon patty. This recipe takes the humble canned salmon and transforms it into a deliciously crunchy and flavorful dish. Whether served as a main course with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or tucked into a sandwich with a zesty tartar sauce, these salmon cakes are a comforting throwback to childhood favorites.
A balance of simplicity and rich flavors, these salmon patties are ideal for a quick and budget-friendly meal. The crispy texture on the outside and the tender, flaky salmon on the inside make every bite a delight. Pair them with a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy slaw for a complete meal. Perfect for a casual family dinner or meal prepping ahead of time, these salmon cakes are sure to become a go to favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14.75 oz each) pink salmon, drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the drained salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, chopped onion, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties, about ½ inch thick.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Crispy Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties: A Comfort Classic with a Modern Twist
A Taste of Nostalgia: The Story Behind Salmon Patties
Old fashioned salmon patties have long been a staple in home kitchens, particularly in the United States. This humble dish dates back to the Great Depression when families needed to make the most of budget-friendly ingredients. Canned salmon became a household favorite because it was affordable, had a long shelf life, and provided a good source of protein.
Salmon patties, also known as salmon cakes or croquettes, quickly became a go to meal due to their simplicity, minimal prep time, and deliciously crispy texture. The beauty of this dish is that it takes inexpensive ingredients and transforms them into something that feels indulgent and satisfying. Whether served with a creamy sauce, paired with a side of vegetables, or enjoyed as a sandwich, salmon patties offer a versatile and nostalgic meal.
Over time, different regions and families have put their own spin on the classic recipe, adding ingredients like bell peppers, fresh herbs, or various seasonings. However, the basic concept remains the same mix canned salmon with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then pan-fry until golden brown. This dish continues to stand the test of time, remaining a beloved comfort food across generations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why old-fashioned salmon patties should be a regular feature on your dinner menu. Here are just a few:
1. Quick and Easy to Make
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how simple and fast it is to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes in the skillet, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Budget-Friendly
Canned salmon is an economical choice compared to fresh seafood. It provides a great source of protein, omega 3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients while keeping costs low. This makes salmon patties an excellent option for families looking to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing taste.
3. Perfectly Crispy Exterior with a Flaky Interior
The magic of salmon patties lies in their texture. The combination of breadcrumbs and eggs creates a structure that holds together beautifully while pan frying results in a golden brown, crispy crust. The inside remains tender and flavorful, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
4. Versatile and Customizable
While the classic recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Want a little spice? Add some cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning. Prefer a hint of freshness? Toss in some chopped parsley or dill. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish, sandwich filling, or even a salad topping, salmon patties can be adapted to fit a variety of meals.
Tips for Making the Best Salmon Patties
Although salmon patties are simple to make, a few tricks can elevate them from good to great. Follow these expert tips for the best results:
1. Drain the Salmon Well
Canned salmon contains liquid that can make the patties too wet, causing them to fall apart during cooking. Make sure to drain the salmon thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Chill the Mixture Before Cooking
Once you’ve combined all the ingredients, letting the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes can help the patties hold their shape better. This step isn’t mandatory but can prevent crumbling when flipping them in the pan.
3. Use the Right Pan and Oil
A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for frying salmon patties. Use just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan to achieve that perfectly crispy crust without making the patties greasy. Medium heat is ideal too hot, and the exterior will burn before the inside is fully cooked.
4. Don’t Overmix the Ingredients
When combining the ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to dense, dry patties rather than the desired flaky texture. Stir just enough to bring everything together.
5. Flip Carefully
Salmon patties are delicate, especially when first added to the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping to allow the crust to develop properly. Use a wide spatula to turn them gently.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Salmon patties can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on your preferences and the occasion. Here are some serving ideas to make your meal even more delicious:
1. Classic Style
Serve your salmon patties with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a vegetable medley for a traditional Southern style meal. A drizzle of tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon enhances the flavors.
2. Light and Healthy
Pair your salmon patties with a fresh garden salad, quinoa, or steamed greens for a lighter meal. A yogurt based dill sauce adds a refreshing touch without extra heaviness.
3. Sandwich or Burger
Turn your salmon patties into a gourmet sandwich by placing them on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of homemade remoulade or spicy aioli.
4. Brunch Option
Serve salmon patties with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce for an elegant brunch option. They pair beautifully with avocado toast or roasted potatoes.
5. Low-Carb Alternative
If you’re following a low carb or keto diet, try serving salmon patties with a side of cauliflower mash or wrapping them in lettuce leaves with sliced avocado and a lemon-garlic dressing.
Variations to Try
If you want to experiment with different flavors, here are some creative variations of the classic salmon patty recipe:
- Spicy Cajun Style – Add Cajun seasoning, diced bell peppers, and a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a Southern kick.
- Mediterranean Twist – Mix in chopped olives, feta cheese, and fresh oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
- Asian-Inspired – Add soy sauce, grated ginger, and green onions to the mixture, and serve with a sesame-ginger dipping sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use almond flour or crushed gluten free crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
- Cheesy Delight – Mix in shredded cheddar or parmesan for an extra rich and indulgent salmon patty.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned salmon patties are a timeless classic that continues to bring comfort and satisfaction to dinner tables around the world. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a budget-friendly option, or a nostalgic dish that reminds you of home, this recipe delivers.
With their crispy exterior, flaky interior, and endless customization possibilities, salmon patties are a must try for any home cook. Pair them with your favorite sides, dress them up with creative toppings, or keep them simple for a traditional experience no matter how you enjoy them, they’re sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
If you haven’t made homemade salmon patties before, now is the perfect time to give this classic recipe a try. You’ll be surprised by how easy, delicious, and satisfying they are!