Salmon patties, a beloved dish in many households, offer a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the health benefits of salmon. These patties, often made from canned salmon, are not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making them a staple in both quick weeknight dinners and special family gatherings. In this recipe, we will explore a version that has been cherished over generations, featuring subtle tweaks that enhance its flavor profile.
Salmon is a nutrient-rich fish packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. Canned salmon, in particular, provides an affordable and accessible way to incorporate these nutrients into your diet. This recipe takes advantage of the convenience of canned salmon while elevating its taste with fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation methods.
Recipe
Ingredients
1 can (14.75 oz) of salmon
1/3 cup bread crumbs
2 green onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 egg, beaten
4 tablespoons butter, for frying
Lemon and dill for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon: Open the can of salmon and drain it thoroughly. Remove any skin and bones from the salmon.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the prepared salmon, bread crumbs, chopped green onions, chopped celery, mayonnaise, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into four even-sized patties. You can enjoy two for dinner and save the other two for a delicious salmon burger the next day.
Cook the Patties: In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the salmon patties and cook on medium heat until they are golden brown on each side and cooked through.
Serve: Serve the patties with boiled and cut-up cooked potatoes, a hard-boiled egg, cream gravy, and candied crunchy dill pickles on the side. Sprinkle a little dill seed and a splash of lemon juice on the patties for added flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Variations
Spicy Salmon Patties: For a spicy twist, add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the salmon mixture. Serve with a spicy aioli or sriracha mayo.
Herb-Infused Patties: Enhance the flavor by incorporating a mix of fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and dill into the salmon mixture. This adds a burst of freshness and complexity to the patties.
Cheesy Salmon Patties: Add a cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, to the mixture. The cheese will melt as the patties cook, creating a delightful cheesy interior.
Asian-Inspired Salmon Patties: Incorporate ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic into the mixture. Serve with a side of soy dipping sauce or hoisin sauce for an Asian flair.
Gluten-Free Salmon Patties: Substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients used are gluten-free.
Substitutions
Mayonnaise Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative. This will still provide the necessary creaminess without the additional fat.
Egg Replacements: For those with egg allergies or following a vegan diet, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or a commercial egg replacer.
Butter Alternatives: Use olive oil, coconut oil, or a plant-based butter alternative for frying the patties if you are looking to reduce dairy or saturated fats.
Vegetable Variations: If you don’t have celery on hand, substitute it with finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. This adds a different texture and nutritional profile to the patties.
Bread Crumb Alternatives: Instead of traditional bread crumbs, you can use panko for a crunchier texture or crushed crackers for a slightly different flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Salmon patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways to suit various tastes and occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:
Classic Plate: Serve the salmon patties with boiled potatoes, a side of steamed vegetables, and a dollop of tartar sauce or lemon-dill sauce. This creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Salmon Burgers: Place the patties in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and a spread of mayonnaise or aioli. This transforms the patties into a delicious and filling salmon burger.
Salad Topping: Crumble the patties over a fresh salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a healthy and flavorful lunch.
Breakfast Option: Pair the salmon patties with poached eggs and a side of sautéed spinach for a hearty and protein-packed breakfast.
Appetizer Bites: Form smaller patties and serve them as appetizers with a dipping sauce such as remoulade, tzatziki, or a spicy mango chutney.
Nutritional Benefits
Salmon is renowned for its impressive nutritional profile, and incorporating it into your diet offers numerous health benefits:
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular health.
High-Quality Protein: Salmon provides a substantial amount of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions.
Vitamins and Minerals: It is rich in B vitamins (B12, B6, niacin) and minerals like selenium, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients play vital roles in energy production, bone health, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Antioxidant Properties: The presence of astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant in salmon, helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties
Drain the Salmon Well: Ensure that the salmon is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the patties, which can make them fall apart during cooking.
Binders are Key: Ingredients like bread crumbs and eggs act as binders, helping the patties hold their shape. Make sure these ingredients are well incorporated.
Consistent Size: Form patties of even size to ensure they cook evenly. Using a measuring cup or a burger press can help achieve this.
Preheat the Pan: Make sure the pan and butter are hot before adding the patties. This helps in achieving a golden-brown crust.
Gentle Handling: Handle the patties gently while forming and cooking to prevent them from breaking apart.
Conclusion
Salmon patties are a delightful and versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer them spicy, cheesy, or herb-infused, these patties make for a nutritious and satisfying meal. With their rich omega-3 content and high-quality protein, they are not only delicious but also beneficial for your health. By experimenting with different ingredients and serving styles, you can enjoy salmon patties in a multitude of ways, ensuring they remain a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Canned Salmon Patties (Best Ever)
Ingredients
- 1 can 14.75 oz salmon drained and bones removed
- 1/3 cup bread crumbs
- 2 green onions finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg beaten
- 4 tablespoons butter for frying
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Drain the canned salmon and remove any skin and bones.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine salmon, bread crumbs, green onions, celery, mayonnaise, and beaten egg. Mix until evenly combined.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties.
- Cook Patties: Heat butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh dill. Enjoy with your choice of side dishes.
