If you love a dish that combines fresh flavors with comforting textures, then you are absolutely going to adore this Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe. It’s a delightful mix of tender salmon patties, infused with herbs and a hint of lemon zest, paired perfectly with a luscious, tangy sauce that brings out every nuance of the fish. This recipe is straightforward, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying — ideal for a quick lunch or a special dinner treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind any great dish lies in the ingredients, and for this Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe, each component plays an essential role. From the salmon’s hearty base to the fresh herbs and creamy elements, these ingredients come together to create a harmony of taste, texture, and even color.
- 14 oz canned salmon, drained: The star of the dish, packed with rich flavor and protein.
- 1 egg, beaten: Binds the patties perfectly without overwhelming the salmon.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Adds needed structure and a slight crispness when cooked.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions: Brings a fresh, mild bite to brighten the patties.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle tang that enhances the overall depth.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses a fragrant underpinning to the patties.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds color and a touch of earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Elevates the patties with uplifting citrus notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential to season and balance flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle kick without overpowering.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying): Ensures a golden, crispy exterior on the patties.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy richness for the sauce.
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and lightness to balance the mayo.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Intensifies the citrus flavor in the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic presence in the sauce subtly.
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped: Brings a delicate herbaceous note to finish the sauce beautifully.
How to Make Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and gently mix the canned salmon with the beaten egg, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. It’s important to combine just enough so the patties stick together but still feel light and tender.
Step 2: Form and Chill the Patties
Divide your mixture into six equal portions and shape each into a round patty, roughly half an inch thick. Placing them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes helps them firm up, making frying a much cleaner and easier process.
Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through. This step is where the crisp, gorgeous crust develops, creating a perfect contrast with the tender inside.
Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce
While the patties cook, prepare the sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, and chopped dill in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning to your liking; this sauce is where the citrus and garlic come alive, complementing the salmon flawlessly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your warm salmon patties topped generously with the creamy lemon-garlic sauce and garnish with fresh lemon wedges for an extra citrus punch. This is the moment to appreciate all the flavors coming together in every bite!
How to Serve Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate the entire dish. Chopped fresh parsley or dill sprinkled on top adds a vibrant splash of green and a fresh herbaceous aroma. Don’t forget those bright lemon wedges for guests to squeeze on as they wish — the acidity really wakes up the flavors.
Side Dishes
These salmon patties shine when paired with crisp, refreshing sides like a garden salad, steamed asparagus, or roasted vegetables. If you’re feeling a bit heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf can make the meal feel complete and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these salmon patties as a main course on a bed of mixed greens, or elevate them into sliders using soft buns, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomato slices. They also make fantastic appetizers — just cut them smaller and serve with toothpicks alongside the creamy lemon-garlic sauce for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, cool the patties completely before refrigerating them in an airtight container. They will keep well for up to three days, making for a delicious and quick lunch option the next day.
Freezing
Salmon patties freeze beautifully! Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months frozen, giving you a fantastic ready-to-go meal anytime you need.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the patties in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain their crispiness, or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful pan-fried texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely, fresh salmon can be used, but it requires cooking and flaking before mixing with the other ingredients. Make sure it’s fully cooled before combining to maintain the right texture for the patties.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and you’ll have a fantastic gluten-free version of this recipe without compromising flavor or texture.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and cooked through.
How long can the sauce be stored?
The creamy lemon-garlic sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving as ingredients may settle.
What can I add to make the patties spicier?
For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño to the salmon mixture. You can also spice up the sauce with a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for extra depth.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re making it for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Dive in, get cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite with someone you love!
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Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 patties
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make salmon patties paired with a creamy lemon-garlic sauce. These patties are pan-fried to a golden crisp and served with a tangy, refreshing sauce that complements the rich salmon flavor perfectly. Ideal for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe yields 6 flavorful patties.
Ingredients
Salmon Patties
- 14 oz canned salmon, drained
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)
Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained salmon, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, fresh parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the mixture.
- Shape the patties: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form each into a patty approximately 1/2 inch thick. Place the patties on a plate and chill them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up, which helps them hold together during cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and keep warm.
- Make the lemon-garlic sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and chopped fresh dill. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed to achieve a creamy, tangy flavor.
- Serve: Arrange the salmon patties on plates and spoon the creamy lemon-garlic sauce on top. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Notes
- Chilling the patties before cooking helps them maintain their shape and prevents crumbling.
- Using canned salmon with skin and bones can add extra flavor and calcium, but you can remove bones for a smoother texture if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- These patties can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet.
