Salmon Cakes

These Salmon Cakes are the perfect combination of crispy, golden exterior and tender, flaky fish on the inside. The fresh herbs, including parsley and dill, enhance the flavor with a bright and aromatic touch, while the Dijon mustard and lemon juice give it a tangy bite. Serve these cakes as an appetizer, main dish, or with a side of salad for a light, satisfying meal.

You can easily make these cakes ahead of time, and they hold up well in the fridge. They’re great for meal prepping, and you can freeze them for later. These Salmon Cakes are not only easy to make but also versatileserve them with your favorite sauce, a side of roasted vegetables, or on top of a fresh salad. No matter how you serve them, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds fresh salmon fillets, skin removed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• ¾ cup plain breadcrumbs

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Olive oil, for frying

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

3. Place the salmon fillets in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but not pureed. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse less.

4. Transfer the salmon to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooled onion and garlic mixture, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, dill, eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

5. Shape the mixture into 8-10 small cakes, pressing gently to compact them.

6. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon cakes to the skillet, cooking in batches if needed. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Transfer the cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

8. Serve with a side of tartar sauce or a fresh lemon wedge for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Salmon Cakes

Salmon cakes, also known as fish cakes, are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun dish for a family gathering, these crispy, golden-brown patties made from fresh salmon are sure to impress. With their light, flaky texture and delightful combination of herbs and spices, salmon cakes offer an exciting way to enjoy seafood. Here, we dive into the wonders of this recipe, the benefits of using salmon, and creative ways to serve and customize these tasty cakes.

Why Salmon?

Salmon is not only a flavorful and satisfying fish, but it is also one of the healthiest options available. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, salmon is a perfect addition to any balanced diet. These healthy fats can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and boost cognitive function. Furthermore, salmon is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, vitamins like B12, and minerals such as selenium and potassium.

When you use fresh salmon in your cakes, you not only get the nutritional benefits but also a rich and flavorful base for the recipe. Fresh salmon gives these cakes a moist texture that contrasts beautifully with their crispy exterior. This recipe lets the natural flavor of the salmon shine, complemented by fresh herbs like dill and parsley, making it a balanced and delicious dish that anyone can enjoy.

Perfectly Crispy Salmon Cakes

What makes these salmon cakes stand out is their perfect balance of crispness and tenderness. The outside of the cake crisps up beautifully when fried in olive oil, while the inside remains tender and moist, thanks to the fresh salmon. The breadcrumbs provide just the right amount of structure without making the cakes heavy. A quick sear in the pan is all that’s needed to achieve the golden-brown perfection that makes these cakes irresistible.

The key to getting the perfect crispiness is making sure the salmon cakes are not overcrowded in the pan. Cooking them in batches ensures each cake has enough space to develop a crisp, golden crust. This method also prevents them from breaking apart during cooking, ensuring the integrity of the cakes remains intact.

Customizing Your Salmon Cakes

One of the best aspects of salmon cakes is their adaptability. You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making them as simple or as complex as you like.

• Spices and Flavorings: While dill and parsley are classic choices for enhancing the flavor of the salmon cakes, you can also experiment with other fresh herbs like tarragon, thyme, or chives. For a more robust flavor, try adding smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a hint of cayenne pepper to spice things up.

• Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers. You can also use almond flour for a low-carb, gluten-free version of this dish, maintaining that crispy texture while cutting down on carbs.

• Add-ins: Feel free to mix in vegetables such as finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even corn for added texture and flavor. This is an excellent way to sneak in more nutrients and make the cakes even more filling.

• Dipping Sauces: The right sauce can elevate your salmon cakes to the next level. A simple tartar sauce with lemon zest pairs wonderfully with the fish cakes, or you can serve them with a creamy dill sauce or tangy aioli. If you prefer something zesty, a homemade lemon and mustard sauce is an excellent match.

Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Options

Salmon cakes are not only quick to prepare but also make an excellent choice for meal prepping. The mixture can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. If you want to freeze the cakes, simply form them into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, simply pan-fry the frozen cakes directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

The versatility of salmon cakes makes them perfect for lunchboxes, dinners, or even as appetizers at your next dinner party. Their portability and delicious taste make them a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy, whether they’re served as a main dish with a salad or as finger food at a gathering.

Serving Suggestions

Salmon cakes are incredibly versatile in terms of how you can serve them. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Salad: For a light and refreshing meal, serve the salmon cakes on top of a crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a tangy lemon dressing for a healthy, satisfying dish.

2. Sandwich: For a heartier meal, serve the salmon cakes on a toasted bun with some fresh greens, tomato slices, and a dollop of tartar sauce. This makes for a perfect salmon burger that can be enjoyed with fries or chips on the side.

3. Sides: Pair the salmon cakes with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa. A simple side of steamed broccoli or green beans works wonderfully as a complement to the rich flavor of the cakes.

4. Toppings: For a burst of freshness, top the cakes with a zesty cucumber and dill yogurt sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also serve them with a side of pickles or coleslaw to balance out the richness of the salmon.

Health Benefits of Salmon Cakes

Salmon cakes are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits, making them an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. As mentioned earlier, the omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon are incredibly beneficial for heart health, lowering the risk of heart disease and improving overall cardiovascular function. These healthy fats also support brain health and can reduce inflammation in the body.

In addition to the healthy fats, salmon cakes provide a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, maintaining muscle mass, and keeping your body energized throughout the day. Combined with fresh herbs and vegetables, salmon cakes are a balanced and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Conclusion:

Salmon cakes are a perfect way to enjoy the wonderful flavors and health benefits of salmon in a fun and versatile form. With their crispy exterior and moist, flavorful interior, these cakes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you serve them with a simple side salad, on a sandwich, or with your favorite dipping sauce, they are a delicious and satisfying meal that anyone can enjoy. Their adaptability makes them perfect for customizing to your taste preferences or dietary needs, and they also make great leftovers for future meals.