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Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce – Crispy, Tangy & Ready in Minutes!

These Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce are a quick and flavorful way to enjoy seafood at home. Made with fresh or canned salmon, herbs, and almond flour, the patties are pan-seared until golden and crisp. The creamy lemon garlic sauce adds a zesty, savory finish that perfectly complements the fish. Gluten-free, protein-packed, and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a light lunch. Save it for your next crave-worthy seafood dish
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Brunch, Main Dish
Cuisine American, Coastal Comfort
Servings 6 patties (Serves 2–3 as a main dish)
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet or air fryer
  • Spatula
  • Zester or grater
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Whisk
  • Baking tray (optional)

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon Patties

  • 1 can (14 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil (for pan-frying)

For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp chopped dill or parsley
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Make the Sauce

  • In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, lemon juice, zest, garlic, mustard, and herbs.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Refrigerate for 30 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.

Prepare the Patties

  • In a large bowl, combine salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix gently until just combined.
  • Chill mixture for 20 minutes (optional but recommended).
  • Form into 4–6 patties.

Cook

  • Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
  • Bake: Place on a parchment-lined tray, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air Fry: Spray with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.

Serve

  • Plate with salad, roasted veggies, rice, or buns.
  • Garnish with lemon wedges, dill, or capers.
  • Drizzle or dollop with lemon garlic sauce.

Notes

  • Use fresh or leftover cooked salmon for a gourmet twist.
  • For gluten-free, swap breadcrumbs with GF oats or crackers.
  • Sauce keeps in fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Patties freeze well—raw or cooked—for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer uncovered to maintain crispness.
  • Add-ins like spinach, jalapeños, or smoked paprika boost flavor.
 
Keyword air fryer salmon cakes, easy seafood recipe, gluten-free option, lemon garlic sauce, meal prep, Salmon patties