These Easy Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are a simple, nutritious, and flavorful meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. The savory salmon patties are crisped up in a skillet, then topped with a tangy, creamy lemon-garlic sauce that adds an extra burst of flavor to each bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These salmon patties are quick and easy to prepare, yet packed with flavor and nutrition. Fresh salmon is paired with breadcrumbs, green onions, and a touch of lemon juice, making for a light yet satisfying patty. The creamy lemon-garlic sauce adds a zesty kick that complements the rich salmon perfectly. With minimal prep time and only 30 minutes of cooking, this recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties:
1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
2 large eggs
¼ cup chopped green onions
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce:
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare the Salmon: Finely chop the fresh salmon fillets using a sharp knife or pulse them in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
-
Make the Patty Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped green onions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
-
Form the Patties: Shape the salmon mixture into equal-sized patties, about one inch thick.
-
Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, cook each patty for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Prepare the Sauce: While the patties cook, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and additional lemon juice in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
-
Serve: Serve the salmon patties with a generous drizzle of the creamy lemon-garlic sauce on top.
Servings and Timing
-
Yield: Approximately 4 servings
-
Prep Time: 15 minutes
-
Cook Time: 15 minutes
-
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
-
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon patty mixture for an added kick.
-
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or basil can be mixed into the patties for extra flavor.
-
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
-
Baked Version: If you prefer not to fry the patties, bake them on a lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
-
Different Sauce: If you’re not a fan of Dijon mustard, try substituting with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a milder sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, until heated through. The creamy lemon-garlic sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute canned salmon for fresh salmon. Make sure to drain and flake the canned salmon before using it in the recipe.
Can I freeze these salmon patties?
Yes, these patties freeze well. After forming the patties, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To cook, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed.
How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The patties should be golden brown on both sides and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I make these patties in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking. The flavor will even improve as the ingredients meld together.
Can I add cheese to the salmon patties?
Yes, you can add a little shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, to the salmon mixture for a richer flavor.
How can I make these salmon patties more crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, you can coat the patties in a light layer of flour or breadcrumbs before frying them in the skillet.
Can I make the creamy lemon-garlic sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What sides pair well with these salmon patties?
These salmon patties pair well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
Conclusion
These Easy Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are a fantastic way to enjoy the fresh flavors of salmon in a quick and simple meal. The combination of crispy patties and tangy, creamy sauce will leave your taste buds satisfied with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious taste and ease of preparation.
Print
Easy Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These Easy Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are a quick and delicious way to enjoy fresh salmon. Perfectly pan-fried, these savory patties are enhanced with a tangy, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Ideal for a weeknight meal or dinner party, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying, ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties:
1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
2 large eggs
¼ cup chopped green onions
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying
For the Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce:
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon Patties:
Finely chop the fresh salmon fillets using a sharp knife or food processor until they’re broken down into small pieces.
Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped green onions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Shape the Patties:
Shape the mixture into equal-sized patties, about 1 inch thick.
Cook the Patties:
Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Lemon-Garlic Sauce:
While the patties are cooking, in a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and additional lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
Serve:
Serve the golden-brown salmon patties topped with a generous drizzle of creamy lemon-garlic sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
For Extra Flavor: Feel free to add herbs like parsley or dill to the salmon mixture or sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Substitute: If you prefer a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for the sauce.
Serve With: These patties pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even over a bed of quinoa or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Cuisine: American
