Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon: Easy, Delicious, and Quick Recipe

Salmon cakes are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch. Traditionally made with fresh salmon, these cakes can be just as tasty when made with canned salmon. Using canned salmon not only cuts down on cooking time but also makes this recipe more affordable and accessible. The salmon cakes are crispy on the outside and tender and flaky on the inside, making them a true comfort food.

This recipe is simple, requiring only a few basic ingredients, and the best part is that it’s customizable! You can add your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables to make them even more flavorful. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering salmon cakes using canned salmon.

Recipe Preparation Equipment 🍽️

To make Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon, you will need the following equipment:

• A mixing bowl 🥣
• A frying pan or skillet 🍳
• A spatula 🍴
• A measuring spoon for accuracy 🧑‍🍳
• A plate or serving dish 🍽️

Ingredients 🥘

Here’s what you’ll need to make Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon:

For the Salmon Cakes:

• 2 cans (5 oz each) of salmon, drained 🐟
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) 🍞
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise 🧴
• 1 egg 🥚
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 🧴
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 🍋
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 🧅
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery 🥒
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 🧅
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 🌿
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 🧴 (for frying)

For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt 🥛
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 🧴
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 🍋
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 🧴
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂

How to Make Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon? 🐟🍽️

Step 1: Prepare the salmon mixture 🐟

In a large mixing bowl, flake the canned salmon with a fork, removing any bones and skin. Add the breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped onion, chopped celery, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Shape the salmon cakes 🍽️

Take a small portion of the salmon mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons) and shape it into a patty. Repeat until all the mixture has been shaped into cakes. You should end up with 6-8 cakes, depending on the size.

Step 3: Heat the oil and fry the cakes 🍳

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the salmon cakes in the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip the cakes carefully to prevent them from falling apart.

Step 4: Make the dipping sauce (optional) 🧴

In a small bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. This tangy sauce pairs wonderfully with the rich, flavorful salmon cakes.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy 🍽️

Once the salmon cakes are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the cakes with the dipping sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or a lemon wedge if desired.

Variations 🍽️

• Spicy Salmon Cakes: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños 🌶️ to the salmon mixture for an extra kick.
• Vegetable Salmon Cakes: Add finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the mixture for more veggies in the cakes.
• Cheesy Salmon Cakes: Stir in 1/4 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan) into the mixture for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Note 🔥

• Crispiness: To ensure the cakes are crispy, make sure the oil is hot before adding the cakes to the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain an even cooking temperature.
• Avoid overcooking the salmon cakes: Keep an eye on the cakes as they cook to ensure they don’t over-brown or burn. They should be golden on the outside but tender and juicy inside.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

Salmon cakes are great on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of sides:

• Salad 🥗: Serve your salmon cakes with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
• Roasted vegetables 🥦: Pair with roasted veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or sweet potatoes for a hearty side.
• Rice or potatoes 🍚🥔: Serve with a side of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.

Helpful Tips 📝

• Substitute with canned tuna: If you prefer tuna, you can easily substitute the canned salmon with canned tuna for a similar dish.
• Freezing: These salmon cakes freeze well! You can freeze the uncooked patties in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for later use. When ready to cook, simply thaw and fry as usual.

Tips for the Best Salmon Cakes 🐟🍽️

• Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overmixing can make the cakes tough.
• Use high-quality canned salmon: The flavor of the canned salmon is important, so try to use a high-quality brand for the best results.
• Chill the cakes before frying: If you have time, refrigerate the formed cakes for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better.

Prep Time:

15 minutes ⏰

Cooking Time:

10 minutes 🍳

Total Time:

25 minutes 🕒

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 250 🍽️
• Protein: 20g 💪
• Sodium: 350mg 🧂
• Fat: 15g 🧴
• Carbohydrates: 10g 🍞
• Fiber: 1g 🥬
• Sugar: 1g 🍬

FAQs 🤔

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely and remove the skin and bones before using it in the recipe.

2. Can I bake the salmon cakes instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

3. Can I make the salmon cakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon cakes in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld and makes them even easier to cook when you’re ready.

Conclusion 🐟🍽️

Salmon cakes made with canned salmon are a quick, affordable, and delicious way to enjoy seafood. With a crispy golden crust and tender, flavorful interior, these cakes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight meal, a casual lunch, or serving them for guests, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of seafood in every bite!