When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s something warm, flavorful, and easy to prepare—a meal that brings a sense of home. One such dish that fits the bill perfectly is salmon patties. Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight dinner or looking for a protein-packed addition to your meal prep routine, salmon patties are an excellent choice. They’re not only quick to make, but they’re also versatile, nutritious, and delicious. Here’s why you should consider adding salmon patties to your menu, along with a simple recipe to get you started.
Why Salmon Patties?
1. Packed with Nutrients:
Salmon is renowned for being an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and boosting brain function. It’s also high in protein and loaded with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, B vitamins (especially B12), and selenium.
2. Easy to Make:
One of the best things about salmon patties is how simple they are to prepare. Whether you use canned salmon or fresh salmon fillets, the process is quick, making them a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
3. Versatile:
Salmon patties can be seasoned in many different ways to suit your tastes. You can keep it classic with a bit of lemon, dill, and breadcrumbs or crackers. Get creative by adding spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for a more adventurous flavor profile.
4. Affordable and Accessible:
Canned salmon is often quite affordable and a pantry staple in many households. Fresh salmon can be more expensive, but it’s worth the splurge for a richer, flakier patty. Either way, salmon patties are an accessible way to enjoy the health benefits of fish without breaking the bank.
Salmon Patties
Ingredients
- 1 14.75 oz canned pink salmon Fresh salmon works as well
- 1 sleeve of round Ritz or butter crackers Saltine Crackers work too. Just don't add as much salt
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 egg beaten
Instructions
- If using canned salmon, drain it and remove any bones, although many people leave the soft, edible bones in for added calcium. If using fresh salmon, cook it by pan-searing, baking, or grilling until it’s fully cooked through, then flake it with a fork.
- In a large bowl, combine the salmon, crushed crackers, seasoning and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more crushed crackers to firm it up.
- With your hands, divide the mixture into 4-6 portions and shape them into patties. They can be thick or thin depending on your preference, but try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
Cooking:
- Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your skillet. If you prefer, you can bake the patties in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air fryer: Place the patties next to each other in the baking tray and close the air fryer. Depending on your air fryer you might be able Press the fish button and cook for 15 minutes. Otherwise set your baking temperature to 325°F/162.78°C for about 15 minutes. No flipping necessary.
Serving:
- Serve your salmon patties with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a dollop of tartar sauce. They pair nicely with your favorite side dishes like a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy macaroni and cheese.
Salmon patties are a fantastic dish that combines convenience, nutrition, and flavor. Whether you’re looking to use up a can of salmon or want to try something new with fresh fish, these patties are sure to satisfy. Plus, they offer a great way to enjoy the health benefits of fish without needing to be an expert cook or spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
Next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and easy meal, give salmon patties a try—you won’t be disappointed!
“God created the great sea creatures and every living thing that creeps, so that the water swarmed with all kinds of them, and there was every kind of winged bird; and God saw that it was good.” – Genesis 1:21
Leave a Reply