Crispy Salmon Cakes

Andrea Potischman | Mar 13, 2024

Indulge in the savory delight of crispy salmon cakes – an effortless dish that’s both versatile and pleasing, even to many who claim they are “non-fish eaters“.  Whether crafted from fresh or frozen Atlantic salmon, these cakes are a testament to convenience and flavor. Perfect for busy schedules, they can be prepared in advance and cooked off later, offering a hassle-free meal option without sacrificing taste.

Non-Fishy Salmon

When prepared properly with fresh ingredients and complementary flavors, contrary to what many believe, salmon, can be a delicious and enjoyable dish without being overly fishy. So what’s the trick to lessoning that fishy taste, the answer is, a few things:

• Freshness: Using fresh salmon, whether it’s fresh from the fish market or flash frozen, can significantly reduce any major fishy taste. Fresh salmon tends to have a milder flavor compared to fish that is not as fresh.
• Seasonings and Ingredients: Salmon cakes are often seasoned with herbs, spices, and other ingredients like onions, garlic, and especially lemon juice. These additional flavors help to enhance the taste of the salmon while also masking any potential fishiness.
• Cooking Method: Cooking salmon cakes at the right temperature for the right amount of time can help preserve the salmon’s delicate flavor and prevent it from becoming overly fishy. Pan-frying or baking salmon cakes also adds a crispy outer layer that enhances the overall taste and texture.
• Mix-ins and Binders: Ingredients like breadcrumbs, eggs, and mayonnaise are often added to salmon cake mixtures. These binders not only hold the cakes together but also add moisture and flavor, further reducing any fishy taste.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Incorporating salmon into your diet can be an excellent way to reap its numerous health benefits and support overall well-being. Whether cured, grilled, baked, or poached, enjoying salmon regularly can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids offer a myriad of health benefits.

• Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids are known to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering triglyceride levels, decreasing inflammation, and improving arterial function. They also help regulate blood pressure and prevent the formation of blood clots.
• Brain Function: DHA, in particular, is crucial for brain health and development. It plays a vital role in cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation. Adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids may lower the risk of cognitive decline and improve overall brain function.
• Eye Health: DHA is a major component of the retina, making it essential for optimal eye health. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and help maintain good vision.
• Inflammation Reduction: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma.
• Skin and Hair: Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin by supporting moisture retention, reducing inflammation, and promoting collagen production. They can also help improve hair texture and reduce scalp dryness.
• Immune System Support: Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in immune system function, helping to regulate inflammation and enhance the body’s response to infections and diseases.

Pair these golden-brown beauties with a classic tartar sauce for a timeless combination that never fails to impress. Think about adding a shredded cabbage salad, similar to a slaw, where the crispness of the salad perfectly complements the richness of the salmon cakes. Or, if you’re looking for something more hearty, try serving these cakes with a side of garlic ramen noodles, and cucumber salad to add a little extra kick to your plate. These salmon cakes have become just as popular in my house as my shrimp cakes and have been a great addition to my dinner repertoire.

Crispy Salmon Cakes

1 2 3 4 5

Rate this recipe

|

12 ratings

Servings:

4

Serving Size:

2 cakes

Prep:

20 minutes

Cook:

10 minutes

Wait:

15 minutes

Total:

30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds fresh or frozen Atlantic salmon, skin and pin bones removed,
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 lemon, zested, and 2 tablespoons juice, plus more lemon wedges for serving
• 3 scallions, finely chopped scallions
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for searing

Directions:

1. Fill a medium stockpot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the salmon, and depending on if fresh or frozen, lightly poach until cooked. Drain in a colander, and allow to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the egg, mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, scallions, parsley, dill, mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt and black pepper. Mix well to blend and set aside.
3. Once the salmon has cooled, use your hands to gently flake it. Add the salmon and panko bread crumbs to the mayonnaise mixture and mix well until combined, Refrigerate until the mixture for about 10 minutes to firm slightly. Once firm, use your hands to form the salmon mixture into 8 equal cakes.
4. Line a plate with paper towels and place it near your workstation. Heat about three tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high. When the oil is hot, but not smoking, (working in batches as needed) add the cakes and cook, pressing the cakes lightly with a spatula, until browned on the bottom, about 2 minutes. Gently flip the cakes and cook on the other side until browned, about 2 minutes more.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side and tarter sauce, if desired.