If you’ve ever craved a flavorful, comforting dish that comes together quickly and delights every time, this Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with fresh herbs, a little zing from lemon, and a creamy garlic sauce that ties everything together, these salmon patties hit the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender inside. Using pantry staples like canned salmon and simple seasonings, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a dish that feels special yet effortless—perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the perfect texture, adding bold flavor, or giving you that irresistible golden crust. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious salmon patties paired with a bright, creamy lemon-garlic sauce.
- Salmon (2 cans, drained and flaked): The star of the dish, canned salmon offers convenience and a flaky texture.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Helps bind the patties together while adding a tender bite.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup for patties and 1/2 cup for sauce): Adds moisture and a rich, creamy touch inside the patties and in the sauce.
- Eggs (2 large): Essential binder that keeps everything firm yet tender.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Brings a sweet sharpness that balances the richness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced total): Infuses both patties and sauce with aromatic depth.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang and a mild kick.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Provides freshness and color to brighten each bite.
- Old Bay seasoning (1 teaspoon): Classic seafood seasoning that layers in a hint of spice.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon in patties, 1/4 teaspoon in sauce): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon in patties, 1/4 teaspoon in sauce): Adds subtle heat and depth.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For pan-frying the patties to crispy perfection.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) and lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Give the sauce its signature bright, fresh lemon flavor.
How to Make Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Start by combining the flaked canned salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until the mixture holds together well enough to form patties. This stage is crucial because the balance of moisture and binder makes all the difference between patties that fall apart and ones that turn out perfectly firm yet tender.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your salmon mixture is ready, shape it into 8 evenly sized patties. Try to keep them not too thick so they cook through evenly but thick enough to get a golden crust on the outside. Using slightly damp hands can help manage the sticky mixture more easily.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add the patties and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown color and feel firm to the touch. The olive oil not only crisps the exterior but also locks in moisture, guaranteeing a succulent bite every time. Make sure not to overcrowd your pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Make the Lemon-Garlic Sauce
While the patties cook, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This sauce is where the flavor truly shines—tangy, garlicky, and fresh all at once—making it the perfect companion to your salmon patties.
How to Serve Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thin lemon wedges on the side for a pop of color and an extra hint of brightness. A dash of smoked paprika or a few capers can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise if you want to get a little fancy.
Side Dishes
Pair these salmon patties with simple but flavorful sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light quinoa pilaf to keep the meal balanced and fresh. For a comforting option, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice also make wonderful companions that soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to shake things up, serve your salmon patties on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and your sauce as a spread for a tasty sandwich or slider feast. Alternatively, place patties on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with extra sauce for an elegant, low-carb option that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon-garlic sauce stored separately to maintain its fresh flavor and creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together. Frozen patties keep well for up to 2 months and can be cooked straight from the freezer with a few extra minutes added to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat cooked salmon patties gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crust and make patties less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned for the Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh cooked salmon works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to flake it well and allow it to cool before mixing to maintain the right texture for your patties.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe calls for breadcrumbs, which typically contain gluten. However, you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of pan-frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
How long will the lemon-garlic sauce keep in the fridge?
The sauce can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before serving if it separates slightly.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Eggs are important as a binder here, but if you need an egg-free version, try using a flax or chia egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to help hold the patties together.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with impressive flavor. It’s a recipe that feels like home and yet elevates everyday ingredients into something memorable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these patties are sure to become a favorite on your table. Don’t hesitate to give them a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring a restaurant-worthy dish to life right at home!
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Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 patties (4 servings)
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce are a quick and delicious way to enjoy canned salmon. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect for a nutritious main course served with a zesty, creamy lemon-garlic sauce that elevates the flavor with fresh citrus and garlic notes.
Ingredients
Salmon Patties
- 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Lemon-Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the Salmon Patty Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained and flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Patties: Shape the salmon mixture into 8 even patties, pressing gently to hold their shape but not compacting too tightly to keep them tender.
- Cook the Patties: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and are heated through inside.
- Prepare the Lemon-Garlic Sauce: While the patties cook, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Plate the salmon patties hot and drizzle the lemon-garlic sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh cooked salmon for canned if preferred for a fresher flavor and texture.
- These patties work wonderfully in sandwiches with lettuce and tomato for a quick lunch or dinner option.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the patty mixture.
