Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, look no further than Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce. You’ll love the way each crisp, golden patty pairs beautifully with the zesty, creamy sauce, creating a weeknight meal that feels effortlessly special. Whether you’re craving a taste of nostalgia or want something quick yet impressive for company, this salmon patties recipe is about to become one of your go-tos.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce is in how a handful of pantry basics and a few fresh touches can transform into something crave-worthy. Every ingredient plays its part, bringing flavor, moisture, texture, and a pop of color to both the patties and the vibrant sauce.
- Canned Salmon: The true star—choose good-quality canned salmon for savory flavor and satisfying, flakey texture.
- Breadcrumbs: Hold the patties together and add a tender bite, while helping to soak up just the right amount of moisture.
- Large Eggs: Essential for binding the mixture and keeping everything cohesive during frying.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and subtle tang to both the patties and the sauce—don’t skip it for that perfect texture.
- Dijon Mustard: Brings a delicate hint of heat and complexity that perks up every bite.
- Green Onions: Fresh, mild flavor and a little crunch—these lift the patties and add a lovely garnish, too.
- Fresh Parsley: Herby brightness both in the patties and as a finishing touch.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a mellow garlic punch that infuses the patties, perfectly complementing the sauce.
- Paprika: Provides a beautiful color and subtle smoky depth to the mix.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning—brings out all the component flavors.
- Olive Oil: For frying; delivers crisp, golden patties every time.
- Lemon Juice & Lemon Zest: Turn the sauce into something sparklingly fresh and fragrant.
- Minced Garlic: Brings real zing to the sauce, making each drizzle seriously satisfying.
How to Make Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Mix the Patty Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the drained, flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped green onions, fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or your hands to gently fold the mixture together until it’s uniformly blended, but try not to overmix—you want to keep some nice flakey texture from the salmon. This is where all those flavors meld, creating the heart of what’ll become your Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the salmon mixture into 8 equal portions. With slightly damp hands (a total trick for less stickiness!), form each portion into a compact, round patty, about 1/2-inch thick. These patties should hold together well but won’t feel dense—if the mixture seems too loose, add an extra sprinkling of breadcrumbs until it comes together just right.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, gently add the patties, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook each patty for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they’re deeply golden and warmed through. Use a flat spatula to flip them—patience is key for that irresistible crisp crust. You’ll be amazed at how these Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce develop such a gorgeous color in so little time.
Step 4: Whip Up the Lemon-Garlic Sauce
While the patties fry, make your sauce in a small bowl. Whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This silky sauce couldn’t be easier, but its punchy, bright flavor transforms your easy salmon patties from simple to spectacular. For a lighter twist, feel free to swap the mayo for Greek yogurt.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the warm salmon patties on a platter or individual plates, then drizzle the lemon-garlic sauce over the top or offer it on the side for dipping. Fresh parsley or extra green onions sprinkled over the top add a final burst of color and freshness. Your Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce are ready to make everyone at the table happy!
How to Serve Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce
Garnishes
The right garnish does more than just make your dish pretty—it adds a flash of bright flavor and that “restaurant” touch. Think chopped fresh parsley, thinly sliced green onions, or in a pinch, a scattering of chives. A dusting of extra lemon zest or a wedge of lemon alongside each serving brings the citrus pop front and center. If you want to get fancy, top each patty with a tiny dollop of sauce and a microgreen for an instant upgrade.
Side Dishes
These Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce are fantastic with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette or alongside roasted asparagus or steamed green beans for a light meal. For something a bit heartier, pair them with baby potatoes tossed in olive oil and dill or some classic coleslaw. Rice pilaf or even a quick couscous works as a neutral, fluffy foundation to soak up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the basics by tucking these patties into slider rolls with lettuce and the lemon-garlic sauce for a fun snack, or serve them atop a salad for a protein-packed lunch. For a lighter grain bowl, place a warm patty on a bed of quinoa with crunchy cucumber, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of that irresistible sauce. You can even make mini patties for a perfect appetizer spread—think party platter magic with these Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce front and center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce (lucky you!), allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days. Store the sauce separately, tightly covered, to keep all the flavors super fresh for when you’re ready to snack or serve again.
Freezing
Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce freeze beautifully—simply place the cooked, cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. The patties will keep their flavor and texture for up to two months, making last-minute meals a breeze. Freeze the sauce in a separate container and whisk it briefly after thawing for a smooth consistency.
Reheating
To reheat your salmon patties, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. They’ll retain their crispy edges and tender middle, just like fresh. If you’re in a hurry, pop them in a nonstick skillet and warm over medium heat for a few minutes per side. For the sauce, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before serving with your revived Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Simply cook and flake about 2 cups of fresh salmon and proceed with the recipe as written. It’s a delicious way to use leftover grilled or baked salmon, keeping that same classic flavor with an extra pop of freshness.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for the breadcrumbs?
Yes—feel free to swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice crackers. The texture and taste will be just as pleasing, so everyone can enjoy these Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce without worry.
How can I make the sauce even lighter?
A dollop of Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise in the lemon-garlic sauce is fabulous—just as creamy and tangy, but with fewer calories and more protein.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying?
Definitely! Place your shaped patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray or brush with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. The result is still golden, tender, and equally delicious.
What’s the best way to keep the patties from falling apart?
Be sure to mix your ingredients until just combined and don’t skimp on the eggs or breadcrumbs, as both help bind the patties. Letting the shaped patties chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before cooking can also help them firm up for flipping.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give these Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce a try—they’re simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding friends and family, this recipe brings big flavor to the table with hardly any effort. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your own favorite ways to serve this new classic!
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Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (8 patties) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce are a delicious and convenient meal option that can be whipped up in no time. The crispy patties are packed with flavorful ingredients and served with a zesty homemade sauce.
Ingredients
Patties:
- 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) salmon, drained and flaked
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 8 patties.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
- While the patties cook, prepare the sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl.
- Serve salmon patties warm with the lemon-garlic sauce drizzled over or on the side.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce.
- Patties can also be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 patties with sauce
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
