Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that bursts with flavor yet is incredibly comforting, look no further than these Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, the patties combine flaky salmon with a perfect blend of herbs and spices, while the vibrant, silky sauce adds a bright, tangy note that ties everything together beautifully. This recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate and is perfect for a family dinner, casual lunch, or even a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, texture, or that punch of flavor. The beauty of these Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce lies in their simplicity, using everyday items that come together so effortlessly.

• Salmon: Either canned or freshly cooked, it’s the heart of the dish, offering rich flavor and protein.
• Breadcrumbs: These give the patties their perfect binding and a subtle crunch.
• Egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together.
• Onion: Adds a mild sweetness and a bit of bite.
• Fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, herbal lift that brightens the overall taste.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Deepen the savory profile without overwhelming the salmon.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance the flavors.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a hint of color.
• Dijon mustard and mayonnaise: Create a creamy, tangy base inside the patties themselves.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that wakes up the palate.
• Olive oil: For frying, it creates that irresistible golden crust.
• Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) for the sauce: The creamy base that carries the sauce’s tang and richness.
• Garlic clove: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch of savory aroma to the sauce.
• Lemon zest and juice: These amplify the fresh citrus flavor in the sauce for a lively finish.
• Honey (optional): Just a touch to balance the acidity with gentle sweetness.

How to Make Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Start by blending all the core ingredients for the patties in a large bowl. Flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, parsley, spices, Dijon, mayo, and fresh lemon juice come together here. Stir carefully but thoroughly until combined. If the mixture feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more breadcrumbs, but if too dry, add a dab of mayo. This step is where the magic of perfect texture begins.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Now that the mixture is ready, it’s time to shape it into patties. With your hands, gently form about eight 2-to-3 inch patties. This size gives a nice balance between a satisfying bite and quick cooking. Place them on a plate and let them rest for 5-10 minutes; this helps them hold their shape better when frying.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon Patties

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully place your patties into the pan, ensuring they aren’t crowded—this lets them cook evenly and get that irresistible crisp edge. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. The result is a perfectly crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful inside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

While the patties rest, whip up the luscious sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey if you like a touch of sweetness, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This sauce is the perfect tangy, creamy partner for the salmon patties, enhancing every bite with its lively flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

It’s the best part—bringing it all together! Drizzle the creamy lemon-garlic sauce over your warm salmon patties, or serve it alongside as a dip. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon to add a pop of color and brightness. Your Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are now ready to delight your taste buds with every bite.

How to Serve Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill complement the patty’s flavors beautifully. A sprinkle of lemon zest or a wedge on the side not only adds vibrant color but also lets guests add an extra zing if they prefer. A light dusting of paprika on top provides a subtle warmth and an inviting look.

Side Dishes

These patties pair wonderfully with crisp salads like a simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. Roasted vegetables or oven-baked sweet potato fries add heartiness without overshadowing the delicate salmon taste. For a comforting touch, creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa pilaf also make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get a little creative? Serve the patties on toasted brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, and extra sauce for a fabulously fresh salmon burger. Or crumble them over a bed of mixed greens for a quick, flavorful salad bowl. You can even turn the patties into sliders for a fun appetizer or party snack. The versatility of these Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce makes them adaptable to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining their flavor and texture nicely.

Freezing

These patties freeze beautifully if you want to prep ahead. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For the best texture when reheating, warm the patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. This helps recapture the crispiness without drying them out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them soggy. Reheat the sauce separately or serve it cold as a refreshing dip.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh cooked salmon is a wonderful option and can add extra tenderness and flavor. Just be sure to flake it well before mixing. The recipe is flexible and welcomes either choice.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce?

If you prefer a richer sauce, you can use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt. Sour cream also works well and gives a creamy texture with a slight tang.

Are these patties gluten-free?

You can easily make the recipe gluten-free by swapping regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The taste and texture will still be fantastic.

How do I prevent the salmon patties from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture isn’t too wet—add breadcrumbs gradually to bind everything well. Also, letting the patties rest before cooking helps them firm up, while careful handling during frying keeps them intact.

Can I make the patties spicy?

Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño to the salmon mixture for a touch of heat. The creamy lemon-garlic sauce will balance the spiciness perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you make these Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. They’re flavorful, easy to prepare, and wonderfully satisfying. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this dish delivers every single time. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits!

Print