Homemade Southern Salmon Patties Recipe: Golden & Zesty Delight

Southern cooking brings these delectable salmon patties to life with a crispy, golden-brown charm that’ll make you smile.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this simple yet delightful dish.

Fresh ingredients blend seamlessly to create a mouthwatering meal that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen.

Coastal traditions shine through every perfectly seasoned bite of these tender fish cakes.

Crackers and herbs add incredible texture and depth to the mixture.

Serve these patties alongside a zesty remoulade or bright green salad for a complete experience.

Y’all are going to love how easy and satisfying these salmon patties can be!

What Makes Southern Salmon Patties Special

• Craft Quick Salmon Cakes: Perfect for busy home cooks seeking a delicious meal that comes together with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
• Master Easy Protein Option: Packed with nutritious salmon, these patties provide a healthy alternative to traditional meat dishes that everyone in the family will enjoy.
• Create Versatile Meal Solution: Adaptable to various serving styles, these salmon cakes work wonderfully as a main course, appetizer, or sandwich filling for any dining occasion.
• Enjoy Simple Cooking Technique: Requires basic kitchen skills and standard ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all experience levels who want a satisfying seafood dish.

Ingredients For Southern Salmon Patties

• Salmon: Fresh fish that forms the base of the patties and provides rich, omega-3 fatty flavor.

• Onion, Parsley: Fresh vegetables that add sharp and herbal notes to enhance the salmon's taste.
• Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that bring depth and balanced seasoning to the salmon patties.

• Eggs: Crucial ingredient that helps bind the salmon mixture and provides structure to the patties.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds crispy texture and helps hold the salmon patties together during cooking.
• Olive Oil: Used for pan-frying to create a golden, crispy exterior on the salmon patties.

• Lemon Wedges: Bright citrus element to provide fresh, tangy contrast to the rich salmon.
• Optional Hot Sauce, Tartar Sauce: Complementary condiments for added flavor and personalization.
• Extra Parsley: Fresh herb for garnishing and adding a pop of color to the dish.

Directions For Southern Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare Salmon Base

Grab your salmon and break it down into tiny, uniform pieces using a fork. Drop these delicate flakes into a roomy mixing bowl, ensuring no stubborn large chunks remain.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

• Finely diced onion
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Gently mix these seasonings through the salmon so every bite will be perfectly seasoned.

Step 3: Bind the Mixture

Crack eggs directly into the salmon blend and dust breadcrumbs over the top. Using a light touch, fold everything together until the mixture becomes compact and holds its shape when pressed.

Step 4: Form Perfect Patties

Sculpt the salmon mixture into round patties. Use your hands to create uniform circles about 3 inches wide and half an inch thick. Press gently to help them stay together.

Step 5: Sizzle and Cook

Pour olive oil into a large skillet and heat until it shimmers and reaches around 350°F. The oil should look glossy and alive with potential.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully slide salmon patties into the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust with crispy, tempting edges.

Step 7: Drain and Rest

Move the cooked patties onto a paper towel-lined plate. This helps absorb any extra oil and keeps the exterior wonderfully crisp.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Place patties on a serving plate and accompany with fresh lemon wedges. Offer hot sauce or tartar sauce on the side for extra zesty enjoyment.

Step 9: Final Flourish

Sprinkle additional chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.

Key Tips For Southern Salmon Patties

• Flake Salmon with Care: Break down salmon into fine, even pieces to ensure uniform texture and prevent large, tough chunks in your patties.
• Season Generously: Mix onion, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper thoroughly to infuse the salmon with balanced, rich flavors throughout.
• Bind with Precision: Use eggs and breadcrumbs to create a cohesive mixture that holds together perfectly when forming patties, preventing crumbling during cooking.
• Control Cooking Heat: Maintain medium-high heat around 350°F to achieve golden-brown crispy exterior while keeping the salmon patties moist and tender inside.
• Drain and Serve Quickly: Remove patties onto paper towels to absorb excess oil, then plate immediately with fresh lemon wedges for maximum crispness and flavor.

Recipe Twists For Southern Salmon Patties

• Gluten-Free Salmon Cakes: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains crispy texture.
• Spicy Mediterranean Salmon Patties: Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced roasted red peppers, and a sprinkle of dried oregano to infuse Mediterranean flavors and extra heat.
• Low-Carb Salmon Fritters: Substitute breadcrumbs with grated cauliflower or crushed pork rinds to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping a crunchy exterior.
• Herb-Infused Salmon Cakes: Experiment with fresh dill, chives, or tarragon instead of parsley to create unique herbal undertones and brighten the overall flavor profile.

Great Sides For Southern Salmon Patties

• Pair with Zesty Citrus White Wine: Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the salmon's richness and cuts through its fatty texture, enhancing the delicate fish flavor.
• Match with Bright Herbal Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to mirror the salmon patties' fresh parsley notes and provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy protein.
• Serve with Tangy Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick remoulade or aioli using mayonnaise, capers, chopped dill, and lemon juice to elevate the salmon patties' overall taste profile and add creamy complexity.

How To Store Southern Salmon Patties

• Store salmon patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual patties in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date for tracking.
• Preheat to 375°F. Place patties on baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Warm patties in lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Add splash of water to prevent burning and restore crispness.

FAQs About Southern Salmon Patties

• Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

Yes, canned salmon works perfectly. Just drain excess liquid and remove any skin or large bones before flaking.

• How do I prevent the salmon patties from falling apart?

Use fresh breadcrumbs and make sure to mix ingredients thoroughly. Gently press patties together and avoid overhandling the mixture to maintain their structure.

• What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Wild-caught or fresh salmon are excellent choices. Sockeye or pink salmon provide great flavor and texture for salmon patties.

• Can I bake these salmon patties instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier cooking method with similar crispy results.

Southern Salmon Patties Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Southern salmon patties deliver a classic comfort meal with crispy golden edges and rich coastal flavors. Packed with flaky salmon, herbs, and Southern charm, these patties promise a delightful dinner that connects you to traditional Southern cooking.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood:

• 1 lb salmon, fresh or canned
• 1/2 cup salmon (alternative option)

Binding and Flavor Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Cooking and Finishing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
• Optional: hot sauce or tartar sauce for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Flake the salmon thoroughly, ensuring no large chunks remain, and transfer to a spacious mixing bowl.
2. Incorporate finely chopped onion, minced parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into the salmon, mixing gently to distribute seasonings evenly.
3. Crack eggs into the salmon mixture and sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, then fold ingredients together until a cohesive mixture forms that holds its shape when pressed.
4. Shape the salmon mixture into uniform patties, approximately 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick, using gentle pressure to compact the ingredients.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 350°F.
6. Carefully place salmon patties into the hot oil, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy edges develop.
7. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and maintain crispness.
8. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side, offering optional hot sauce or tartar sauce for additional flavor enhancement.
9. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

• Always drain canned salmon thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that could make patties fall apart during cooking.
• Gently mix ingredients to maintain salmon’s delicate texture and prevent overworking the mixture, which can create dense patties.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs or panko for extra crispiness, helping bind the patties and creating a lighter, more delicate coating.
• For gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond meal or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the patty’s structural integrity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg