If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances bright, zesty flavors with hearty, satisfying comfort, look no further than this Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe. These patties are an absolute delight, boasting tender flakes of salmon seasoned with fresh herbs and garlic, then pan-fried to crispy golden perfection. Paired with a creamy, tangy lemon-garlic sauce, they elevate a humble pantry staple into a show-stopping meal that feels both fresh and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers fantastic flavor and simplicity all in one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here—just straightforward, fresh, and wholesome ingredients that each play an important role. From the rich salmon to the bright lemon and the punchy garlic, every component brings something essential to the table.
- Mayonnaise: Adds a rich, creamy base for the lemon-garlic sauce that balances acidity perfectly.
- Greek yogurt: Gives the sauce a tangy vibrance and a lighter texture.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens both the sauce and patties with zesty citrus notes.
- Garlic: Infuses a fragrant depth into the sauce and the patties.
- Fresh parsley: Offers a burst of herbal freshness and color throughout.
- Cooked or canned salmon: The star ingredient, packed with flavor and protein.
- Eggs: Bind the patties together for a tender yet firm bite.
- Chopped onion: Adds subtle sweetness and texture.
- Fine almond flour: Provides structure with a lovely, light texture instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor.
- Neutral oil: For perfectly crisp, golden patties without overpowering flavor.
- Lemon wedges (optional): For an extra pop of fresh citrus when serving.
How to Make Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon-Garlic Sauce
Start by whisking together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, chopped garlic, and parsley in a small bowl. The combination creates a creamy, tangy sauce that sings with the fresh flavors of lemon and garlic. Pop it into the fridge to let the flavors meld while you prepare the patties—this little step sets the tone for the entire dish.
Step 2: Mix the Salmon Patty Ingredients
In a medium bowl, flake your cooked or canned salmon gently with a fork to maintain tender bits. Add lightly beaten eggs, chopped onion, almond flour, parsley, garlic, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated, ensuring each bite will be flavorful and moist.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to portion the mixture into roughly 2-ounce balls. Then, gently flatten each ball to form a patty shape about half an inch thick. Taking care not to pack them too tightly helps keep the salmon patties light and tender inside yet crisp on the outside when cooked.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon Patties
Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties in batches without crowding the pan. Allow each side to brown beautifully for 5 to 6 minutes until a golden crust forms. Then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This careful cooking process is key for that crave-worthy crispy exterior paired with juicy insides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Place the salmon patties on your serving plates and generously drizzle the bright lemon-garlic sauce on top. Garnish with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon for optional zest. These patties are golden, flavorful, and ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate these salmon patties to something truly special. Fresh parsley sprigs add a pop of green and herbal brightness, while lemon wedges provide an interactive element for guests to add a burst of citrus themselves. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top can also add a subtle spice kick.
Side Dishes
These patties shine with classic sides like a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables, which complement the rich fish without overpowering it. For a more indulgent meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice pilaf are perfect partners that soak up every bit of the luscious lemon-garlic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salmon patties inside soft buns with leafy greens and extra sauce for an irresistible sandwich. Alternatively, serve them atop a bed of mixed greens with avocado slices and cherry tomatoes for a fresh, modern twist. No matter how you plate them, these patties always steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any patties left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days. Keep the lemon-garlic sauce stored separately to maintain its creamy, fresh texture.
Freezing
To enjoy these salmon patties even later, you can freeze them individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months. This way, you have a homemade meal ready any time cravings strike!
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispy exterior, flipping carefully. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy. Warm the lemon-garlic sauce separately and drizzle just before serving to keep all the bright flavors fresh.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned or cooked salmon?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and flake the fresh salmon before incorporating it into the patty mixture. Fresh salmon adds a wonderful flavor and texture, though canned salmon offers a convenient and budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing taste.
Is almond flour essential, or can I substitute breadcrumbs?
You can definitely swap almond flour for breadcrumbs if preferred. Almond flour keeps the patties gluten-free and adds a subtle nutty flavor, but breadcrumbs will work fine to bind and add structure as well.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying?
Yes! Bake the patties on a greased baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method reduces oil use and still yields delicious results, though the skillet version provides the crispiest exterior.
How can I make the lemon-garlic sauce ahead of time?
The sauce can be made up to two days in advance and kept refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors and texture. This makes meal prep a breeze when planning ahead.
Are these patties kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild salmon flavor paired with creamy, tangy sauce makes them appealing to kids. You can even customize the seasoning slightly to suit younger palates. This recipe is a great way to introduce kids to seafood in a fun and tasty way.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a recipe that comes together quickly, tastes amazing, and feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe hits all those marks and more. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend treat that brings brightness, comfort, and wholesomeness into every bite. Give it a try—you’re going to love how simple it is to create something so memorable and delicious!
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Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce are a quick, delicious, and protein-packed dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Made with cooked or canned salmon, fresh herbs, and almond flour, these patties are pan-fried to a golden crisp and served with a creamy, tangy lemon-garlic sauce that complements the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
Lemon-Garlic Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
Salmon Patties
- 16 ounces cooked salmon or 1 (14.75-ounce) can canned salmon, flaked
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ⅔ cup fine almond flour
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
- Neutral oil (approximately 2-4 tablespoons, as needed)
Optional Serving Suggestions
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon-Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped garlic, and parsley. Stir carefully until smooth, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Flake the Salmon: In a medium mixing bowl, use a fork to flake the cooked or canned salmon into small pieces, ensuring there are no large chunks for even patties.
- Combine Salmon Patty Ingredients: Add the lightly beaten eggs, chopped onion, almond flour, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the flaked salmon. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined to form a cohesive mixture.
- Form the Patties: Using a cookie scoop or disher, scoop out 2-ounce portions of the salmon mixture. Roll each portion gently into a ball, then flatten carefully to create evenly sized patties, about half an inch thick for optimal cooking.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of neutral oil. Allow the oil to heat fully before cooking to ensure a crisp exterior.
- Cook the Patties: Place the salmon patties in the skillet in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook each patty for 5-6 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust and are heated through.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil, helping maintain their crisp texture.
- Serve: Arrange the salmon patties on serving plates and drizzle generously with the prepared lemon-garlic sauce. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately to enjoy the patties at their best.
Notes
- Using cooked salmon or canned salmon works equally well; canned salmon is a convenient and budget-friendly option.
- Almond flour serves as a low-carb binder; you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs if you prefer.
- Be gentle when forming patties to avoid them falling apart during cooking.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on your dietary preferences.
- Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
