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These Salmon Patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Made with pantry staples like canned salmon, herbs, and breadcrumbs or almond flour, they come together quickly and pair beautifully with a tangy, creamy lemon garlic sauce. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner, brunch, or meal prep, this comfort classic gets a gourmet upgrade with minimal effort.

Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce – Crispy, Zesty & Easy to Make

These Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce are a delicious blend of crispy, golden edges and tender, flaky salmon inside. Infused with herbs and spices, then topped with a tangy, garlicky lemon sauce, they’re bursting with flavor in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, brunch, or meal prep, these patties are easy to make and pair beautifully with salads, rice, or roasted veggies. Whether you’re using fresh or canned salmon, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients and bold taste.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Brunch, Light Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American / Fusion, Coastal Comfort, Southern-Inspired
Servings 4 Makes 6–8 patties
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet or nonstick pan
  • Spatula
  • Zester or microplane
  • Garlic press (optional)
  • Whisk or fork
  • Cookie scoop (optional for portioning)

Ingredients
  

For the Patties:

  • 1 (14–15 oz) can salmon, drained and flaked
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup almond flour or breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Zest of ½ lemon
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
  • Juice and zest of ½ lemon
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tbsp chopped dill
  • 1 tsp capers
  • Dash of hot sauce
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions

Instructions
 

  • Mix Patties: In a bowl, combine salmon, egg, almond flour or breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  • Form Patties: Shape into 6–8 equal-sized patties. Chill for 10–15 minutes to help them firm up.
  • Cook Patties: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Work in batches if needed.
  • Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or yogurt, garlic, lemon juice and zest, Dijon (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Serve: Plate patties warm with a generous dollop of lemon garlic sauce. Garnish with herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
  • Bold Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures even browning and crisp texture.

Notes

  • Canned vs Fresh Salmon: Both work well. Fresh adds richness; canned is budget-friendly and convenient.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or certified GF breadcrumbs.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Mix and shape patties ahead; cook fresh for best texture.
  • Storage: Cooked patties keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen or thaw overnight.
  • Sauce Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Keyword canned salmon recipe, easy seafood recipe, gluten-free salmon patties, healthy fish cakes, lemon garlic sauce, protein-packed meal, quick dinner, salmon cakes, Salmon patties