Easy Homemade Salmon Cakes Recipe – Best 20-Min Dinner
As a busy parent, finding quick, nutritious meals is a challenge. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy salmon cakes recipe. These golden-brown patties are ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
These salmon cakes are packed with omega-3s from canned wild salmon. They’re not only delicious but also healthy. With simple ingredients and a quick skillet sear, you’ll have a meal ready fast. Impress your family with this easy, restaurant-quality dish.
Table of Contents
Why These Salmon Cakes Are a Perfect Weeknight Dinner
Salmon cakes are great for weeknights. They’re full of salmon flavor and good for you. They’re also quick to make, perfect for busy families.
Health Benefits of Salmon Cakes
Salmon is full of omega-3s, which are good for your heart and blood sugar. This makes salmon cakes a smart choice for anyone wanting to stay healthy. Using fresh salmon fillets ensures you get the most nutrients.
Time-Saving Benefits
These salmon cakes take just 20 minutes to prepare. They’re easy to make and bake, so you can have dinner ready fast.
Budget-Friendly Meal Option
Salmon can be pricey, but this recipe is affordable. Using canned or frozen salmon saves money. Plus, ingredients like breadcrumbs and mayonnaise are cheap, making it a budget-friendly meal.
“Salmon cakes are a versatile, fool-proof, and flavorful way to enjoy the benefits of this nutrient-rich fish. They’re a perfect option for quick weeknight dinners.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Cakes Recipe
To make tasty salmon cakes, you need the right ingredients. Start with two cans of salmon, each 14.75 ounces. Save the liquid from one can to help the mix stick together.
You’ll also need 3/4 cup of Italian-seasoned panko breadcrumbs for crunch. Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor. And 2 large eggs help keep the mix together.
The recipe also includes 2 green onions, 3 tablespoons each of Worcestershire sauce and Parmesan cheese. You’ll also need 2 tablespoons each of Dijon mustard and creamy salad dressing. Plus, 2 teaspoons of seafood seasoning, and 1.5 teaspoons each of garlic powder and black pepper.
For a gluten-free version, swap 1 cup of cornmeal for bread and flour. Some people use mayonnaise or whole wheat breadcrumbs for different textures and tastes.
The secret to great salmon cakes is mixing these ingredients just right. This ensures a mix of flavors and textures in every bite. With the right mix of salmon, breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasonings, you’re on your way to a delicious salmon cake dinner.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make tasty salmon cakes recipe at home, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. These tools help make preparing easy salmon cakes a breeze. They ensure your dishes always come out right.
Required Cookware
The main cookware you’ll need includes:
- A large mixing bowl for combining the salmon cake ingredients
- A large skillet or pan for frying the salmon cakes
Optional Tools for Easier Preparation
While not strictly required, the following optional tools can make the preparation process even easier:
- A zester for finely grating lemon zest
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portioning
- A food processor for finely chopping the salmon and other ingredients, if desired
With these essential and optional tools, you’ll be ready to make delicious salmon cakes recipe in your kitchen. It’s easy and fuss-free.
| Cookware Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combine all the salmon cake ingredients |
| Large Skillet/Pan | Cook the salmon cakes |
| Zester | Finely grate lemon zest |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients accurately |
| Food Processor | Finely chop salmon and other ingredients |
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making tasty salmon cakes at home is easy with this recipe. First, collect all the ingredients in a big bowl. Mix the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper gently. Don’t overmix to avoid making the cakes dense.
After mixing, shape the mixture into patties. Split it into 8 parts and make each part into a salmon cake. Refrigerating the patties for 20 minutes helps them stay in shape while frying.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the salmon patties to the hot oil, a few at a time.
- Fry the cakes for 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden and crispy.
- Drain the cooked cakes on a paper towel-lined plate.
Follow these steps to make a delicious batch of salmon cakes recipe. The easy salmon cakes are perfect for a quick dinner that everyone will love.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Consistency
Making the perfect salmon cakes is all about paying attention to a few key details. These details can greatly affect the texture and consistency of your dish. We’ll look at tips for moisture control and binding methods to help you make delicious and sturdy salmon cakes.
Moisture Control Techniques
Getting the right moisture level is key for salmon cakes that stay firm. Start by draining the canned salmon well to remove excess liquid. Then, gently pat the salmon dry with paper towels before mixing it into the recipe. This step prevents the cakes from getting too wet and falling apart when cooked.
Proper Binding Methods
To keep your salmon cakes together, use eggs and breadcrumbs as binders. Eggs help the mixture stick, while breadcrumbs add structure and texture. For a crunchier outside, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
Ideal Cooking Temperature
Cooking the salmon cakes at medium heat is ideal. This temperature helps the cakes get a golden-brown, crispy outside while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. If the heat is too high, the outside might burn before the inside is cooked. If it’s too low, the cakes could become soggy. Aim for a steady, even heat throughout cooking.
By following these tips for moisture, binding, and temperature, you’ll make salmon cakes with the perfect texture and consistency. This will result in a delicious healthy salmon cakes dish that’s sure to impress.
Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces
Make your homemade salmon cake even better with great serving ideas and tasty dipping sauces. These seafood appetizers are perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed in many ways, pleasing different tastes.
Serving Salmon Cakes
Highlight your salmon cakes with a mix of roasted veggies for a full meal. Or, cut them into small pieces for a fun appetizer. They’re great for parties or as a tasty snack.
Dipping Sauces
Try making an aioli or remoulade sauce to go with your salmon cakes. But, a simple ranch dressing works well too. It adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the salmon nicely.
| Nutrition Facts | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 2 tablespoons |
| Calories | 104 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g |
| Trans Fat | 0.02g |
| Cholesterol | 11mg |
| Sodium | 268mg |
| Potassium | 31mg |
| Fiber | 0.3g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 87 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.5mg |
| Calcium | 18mg |
| Iron | 0.2mg |
The nutrition facts are an estimate based on the salmon cake recipe. It includes 3 7-ounce cans of salmon, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup of almond flour, among other ingredients.
Whether you serve the salmon cakes as a main dish or a seafood appetizer, you have endless options. Be creative with your presentation. Enjoy the delicious mix of flavors these versatile cakes offer.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoy the delicious salmon cakes recipe without worrying about leftovers. These tasty morsels can be stored and reheated with ease. This way, you can enjoy the flavors long after the initial meal.
Refrigeration Tips
Cooked easy salmon cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the patties in a 325°F oven for around 10 minutes or until heated through.
Freezing Instructions
- For longer storage, the salmon cakes can be frozen. Place the uncooked patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flash freeze them until firm, about 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the patties to an airtight container or resealable bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or on the stovetop.
By following these simple storage and reheating guidelines, your homemade salmon cakes recipe stays fresh and delicious. It’s the perfect go-to meal any time of the week.
Recipe Variations and Customization Options
The salmon cakes recipe is very flexible. You can try out different flavors and ingredients to match your taste. Whether you want a Southwestern twist or Thai-inspired flavors, you can easily make changes.
For a Southwestern flavor, add cilantro and corn to the salmon cakes. Cilantro’s fresh taste and corn’s sweetness make a great mix. Or, for Thai flavors, mix in curry paste and chili garlic sauce. This makes the salmon patties spicy and aromatic.
Want something zestier? Add fresh dill to the recipe. This simple change can make the salmon cakes taste brighter and more lively.
Looking for a different option? Try using wild albacore tuna instead of salmon. This change can give you a new texture and taste, adding more variety to the dish.
With these easy variations, you can make the salmon cakes your own. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite version of this tasty seafood dish.
| Ingredient Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Red Onion | Replace diced green onion with chopped red onion for a bolder flavor. |
| Saltines or Panko Crumbs | Use crushed saltine crackers or Panko crumbs instead of Ritz crackers for a different texture. |
| Additional Ingredients | Mix or match celery, fresh dill, Old Bay seasoning, minced garlic, mayonnaise, or Worcestershire sauce to customize the salmon patties. |
This salmon cakes recipe lets you make it your own. You can enjoy a meal that fits your taste perfectly.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making salmon cakes recipe, avoid a few common mistakes. Make sure to drain the salmon well before mixing it with other ingredients. If you don’t, your cakes might be too wet and fall apart.
Don’t overmix the ingredients. You want them to be combined well, but too much mixing can make the cakes tough. Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid overworking the mixture.
Also, avoid cooking the salmon cakes too hot. This can burn the outside before the inside is cooked. Use a moderate heat and flip the cakes gently when they’re golden brown on the first side.