Easy Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce

These savory and crispy salmon patties are packed with flavor and paired with a refreshing lemon-garlic sauce. They come together in just 25 minutes, making them an ideal choice for a quick, nutritious meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a tasty appetizer, these salmon patties deliver on both taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious – High in protein and omega-3s, making it a healthy choice.
• Flavorful – The combination of fresh parsley, garlic, and lemon juice enhances the taste.
• Crispy Texture – Pan-fried to golden perfection for the perfect bite.
• Versatile – Serve with a side salad, rice, or as a sandwich filling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Lemon-Garlic Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

For the Salmon Patties:

• 16 ounces cooked salmon or 1 (14.75-ounce) can canned salmon, flaked
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup chopped onion
• ⅔ cup fine almond flour
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
• Neutral oil (approximately 2-4 tablespoons, as needed)

Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges

Directions

For the Lemon-Garlic Sauce:

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
2. Stir until well blended. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

For the Salmon Patties:

Prepare the Salmon Mixture:

1. Using a fork, flake the cooked salmon into a medium mixing bowl.
2. Add the eggs, onion, almond flour, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Form the Patties:

1. Use a cookie scoop or disher to portion out 2-ounce balls of the salmon mixture.
2. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten gently into a patty. Place the patties on parchment paper.

Cook the Patties:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon neutral oil.
2. Place the patties in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd.
3. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes until golden brown on both sides.
4. Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining patties, adding more oil as needed.

Serve:

1. Place the salmon patties on serving plates.
2. Drizzle with the prepared lemon-garlic sauce, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 517 kcal

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the salmon mixture.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Substitute parsley with fresh dill or chives for a different twist.
• Crunchier Texture: Swap almond flour for panko breadcrumbs for a crispier finish.
• Oven-Baked Option: Bake the patties at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

FAQs

How do I keep my salmon patties from falling apart?

Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the salmon and mix the ingredients well. Using eggs and almond flour helps bind the patties together.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes! Cook and flake fresh salmon before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Can I make these salmon patties ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking.

What’s the best way to serve salmon patties?

Serve them with a fresh salad, over rice, or as a sandwich in a bun with extra lemon-garlic sauce.

Are these salmon patties gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, making it naturally gluten-free.

Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?

Yes! Bake them at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.

How do I make them crispier?

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of almond flour and cook them in a little extra oil for a crispier finish.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! Tuna, cod, or trout can be used instead of salmon.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce?

You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

How long do leftovers last?

Cooked salmon patties last up to 3 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

These easy salmon patties with lemon-garlic sauce are a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, they are a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish, an appetizer, or a light snack, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy a flavorful seafood dish in no time!