The aroma of crispy golden-brown salmon cakes wafts through the air as I take my first bite. Imagine the delightful crunch followed by a tender, flavorful burst that dances on your palate. These salmon cakes with canned salmon are not just a dish; they are an experience that brings joy to the table.

I remember the first time I made these delightful morsels for my family. It was a chaotic weeknight when takeout seemed more appealing than cooking. But I decided to whip up these beauties instead—and boy, did they become an instant hit! Now, we enjoy them during cozy nights in or as a fun appetizer for gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These scrumptious salmon cakes are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients
Their flavor profile combines savory and zesty notes that please everyone’s palate
The vibrant golden color makes them visually appealing on any plate and they can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer!

I’ll never forget my friend’s face when she took her first bite of these delicious treats—pure bliss!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Canned Salmon: Opt for wild-caught if possible; it offers great flavor and is packed with omega-3s.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned varieties depending on how much flavor you want to add.
Eggs: These bind everything together beautifully; don’t skip them!
Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a lovely crunch and mild onion flavor.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors tremendously.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and perhaps some Old Bay seasoning will enhance the overall taste.
Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil like canola or olive oil to keep it light.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

First things first, let’s gather our ingredients and channel our inner chef!

Prep the Salmon: Open those cans of salmon like you mean it! Drain them well and flake the fish into a large bowl. No one wants mushy cakes!

Add Bindings and Flavorings: Toss in breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, eggs, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and seasonings to that bowl. Stir until just combined—overmixing leads to rubbery textures!

Scoop It Up!: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup or your hands (get messy!), form patties about 1-inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you heat your skillet.

Heat That Pan!: In a skillet over medium heat, pour in enough oil to cover the bottom. Wait until it shimmers—this is when magic happens!

Fry Until Golden Brown: Gently place patties in the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side until they achieve that gorgeous golden hue. Your kitchen will smell divine!

Drain and Serve!: After frying, place your beautiful creations on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce (tartar sauce anyone?)!

And there you have it! You’ve just created deliciously crispy salmon cakes with canned salmon that will impress even your toughest critics!

You Must Know

Canned salmon is a hidden gem for quick meals
It’s packed with protein and omega-3s, making it a nutritious choice
These salmon cakes are not just tasty but also budget-friendly, so don’t skip this delicious option for dinner

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the canned salmon with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Form patties and chill them briefly before frying to help them hold together better.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients like breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or add fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly crisp salmon cakes, make sure your oil is hot before adding the patties
Avoid overcrowding the pan; this prevents sogginess
Lastly, don’t forget to let them rest briefly after cooking to enhance their flavor

Cooking these salmon cakes with canned salmon always reminds me of that one time my friend thought they were store-bought. Little did they know, I whipped them up in under 30 minutes!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

Yes, fresh salmon works well; just cook and flake it first.

How do I prevent my salmon cakes from falling apart?

Chilling the patties before cooking helps them maintain their shape during frying.

What can I serve with salmon cakes?

Pair these delicious cakes with a tangy dipping sauce or a fresh salad for balance.