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Golden-brown Canned Salmon Patties on a white plate with a lemon wedge and fresh dill.

Gourmet Canned Salmon Patties

Transform humble canned salmon into an elegant meal with these surprisingly simple patties. They feature a delicate, flaky interior with fresh herbs and a tangy kick, all encased in a shatteringly crisp, golden-brown crust.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 15 ounces canned wild-caught salmon, drained well
  • 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 small shallot, finely minced
  • 1 lemon, for 1 teaspoon of zest and 1 tablespoon of juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for frying

Equipment

  • Can opener
  • Two mixing bowls (one medium, one small)
  • Fork
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Microplane or zester
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Baking sheet or large plate
  • Parchment paper
  • Large Non-Stick Skillet
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Wire rack or paper towel-lined plate

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Open, thoroughly drain, and flake the canned salmon into a medium bowl with a fork. Remove large bones or skin if desired, though the small bones are edible and add calcium.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
  3. Gently Mix: Pour the wet mixture over the salmon. Add the Panko breadcrumbs, minced shallot, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix to keep the texture flaky.
  4. Form and Chill: Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 patties, each about 3/4-inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined plate, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to help them set and prevent them from falling apart.
  5. Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chilled patties in the skillet, leaving space between them. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crisp. Work in batches if necessary.
  6. Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked patties to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot, garnished with extra lemon wedges or a side of lemon-dill aioli.

Notes

Expert Tips: Do not skip the chilling step; it is essential for firm patties. Use a gentle hand when mixing to keep the salmon flaky, not pasty. Ensure your pan and oil are fully preheated before frying for a perfect, non-greasy crust.
Substitutions: Crushed saltine crackers can replace Panko for a denser crunch. Greek yogurt or sour cream can substitute for mayonnaise. Use 1 teaspoon of dried dill for every 1 tablespoon of fresh.
Flavor Variations: For a spicy kick, add a minced jalapeƱo or a teaspoon of sriracha. For a Mediterranean twist, mix in 1 tablespoon of chopped capers and some crumbled feta cheese.