Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden-brown salmon cake with canned salmon, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. The delightful crunch gives way to tender, flaky fish mixed with a medley of aromatic herbs and spices that make your taste buds sing.

Now, picture this dish gracing your dinner table during a cozy family gathering or served up as an appetizer at a lively party. The anticipation builds as you watch your loved ones indulge in these delicious morsels, their smiles telling you that you’ve struck culinary gold.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These salmon cakes are incredibly easy to whip up, making meal prep a breeze
- Their savory flavor bursts with every bite, leaving everyone wanting more
- The vibrant appearance adds a pop of color to any plate, making it visually appealing
- Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant brunch
The first time I made salmon cakes with canned salmon, my friends devoured them faster than I could plate them. Their compliments still echo in my kitchen!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned Salmon: Opt for high-quality salmon packed in water for the best flavor and moisture.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the mixture and add texture.
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Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind everything together for perfect cakes.
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Green Onions: Fresh green onions lend a lovely crunch and mild onion flavor.
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Dijon Mustard: A tablespoon adds depth and tanginess to the mix.
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Old Bay Seasoning: This classic spice blend gives the cakes that quintessential seafood flavor.
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Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the overall flavor profile.
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Olive Oil: For sautéing the cakes until they are perfectly golden brown and crispy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients on the countertop. This ensures you have everything handy before diving into the mixing magic.
Mixing Time!: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped green onions, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Stir gently until everything is well combined but avoid overmixing.
Shape Those Cakes!: With clean hands (or wet if you prefer), form the mixture into patties about 2 inches wide. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you shape each one.
Heat Things Up!: In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough olive oil to coat the bottom generously. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking—this way you’ll avoid burning!
Cook Until Golden!: Carefully place the formed patties into the hot skillet. Sauté each side for 4-5 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Flip them gently using a spatula to keep their shape intact.
Serve & Enjoy!: Once cooked through and beautifully browned on both sides, transfer your salmon cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious salmon cakes! Each bite will be filled with laughter and joy around your dinner table as friends and family relish every flavorful morsel you’ve created.
You Must Know
- Salmon cakes with canned salmon are a quick and delicious option for any meal
- Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them irresistible
- Plus, they’re packed with protein and require minimal prep time, making them a go-to for busy weeknights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing all ingredients in a bowl, then form patties. Sear the salmon cakes until golden brown on both sides for about 4-5 minutes per side. This ensures a crispy texture and even cooking throughout.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs such as dill or parsley to elevate your salmon cakes’ taste profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm them on a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use canned salmon packed in water for a moist and flavorful result
- Letting the mixture rest before forming patties helps flavors meld beautifully
- Use a non-stick skillet to avoid any sticking disaster while cooking your salmon cakes!
Sharing my first attempt at making salmon cakes was memorable; my friends devoured them and begged for the recipe! Their laughter filled the kitchen as we enjoyed this simple yet delightful dish together.
FAQ
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
Absolutely! Fresh salmon works well; just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before mixing.
How do I know when the salmon cakes are done?
They should be golden brown and crispy on both sides, typically taking about 8-10 minutes total.
What can I serve with salmon cakes?
Pair them with a side salad or some zesty tartar sauce for a delightful meal experience.
Crispy Salmon Cakes
Salmon cakes made with canned salmon are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines crispy textures with rich flavors. Each bite reveals tender, flaky salmon mixed with aromatic herbs and spices, making them perfect for family dinners or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these salmon cakes are not only delicious but also packed with protein, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy them.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 can (14.75 oz) canned salmon, drained
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, green onions, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Mix gently until combined.
- Form the mixture into patties about 2 inches wide and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the patties.
- Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg