Salmon Patties Recipe with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Zest

Salmon patties are a timeless dish that’s beloved for their simplicity, rich flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner, crafting a healthy lunch, or seeking the perfect snack, this salmon patties recipe ticks all the boxes.

What makes this salmon patties recipe truly special is the addition of fresh herbs and the zesty brightness of lemon zest. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful balance that’s both refreshing and indulgent, transforming a basic dish into a gourmet experience.

This salmon patties recipe isn’t just about great taste—it’s also about convenience and nutrition. With quick preparation and wholesome ingredients, these salmon patties offer a protein-packed meal option that fits seamlessly into any busy schedule without sacrificing flavor or quality. Whether you enjoy them with a crisp salad, creamy sauce, or tucked inside a sandwich, they’re sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Patties Recipe

These salmon patties aren’t just another seafood dish—they’re a delightful blend of flavors, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a light snack, this recipe is sure to win hearts.

What Makes It Special?

• Fresh herbs like parsley and dill: These fragrant ingredients infuse each patty with a burst of vibrant, garden-fresh flavor.
• Lemon zest: A hint of lemon adds a tangy brightness, perfectly complementing the richness of the salmon and balancing the flavors.

Healthy and Nutritious

• Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids: These patties provide essential nutrients for a balanced, health-conscious meal.
• Low-carb and keto-friendly options: By swapping breadcrumbs for almond flour or other low-carb alternatives, this dish easily fits into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Quick and Easy

• Ready in under 30 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast, satisfying meal without sacrificing taste.
• Simple prep and cooking process: With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have gourmet-quality patties in no time.

Ingredients Needed for Fresh Herb and Lemon Zest Salmon Patties

To create these irresistible salmon patties, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring the patties are flavorful, well-textured, and easy to prepare.

Main Ingredients

• Fresh salmon fillets: For the best flavor, use fresh salmon. However, canned salmon works well for a quicker option.
• Fresh parsley and dill: These herbs bring a bright, aromatic touch to the patties, elevating their flavor profile.
• Lemon zest and juice: Lemon zest adds a tangy burst of flavor, while the juice keeps the patties moist and enhances their freshness.

When buying fresh salmon, it’s important to know what to look for. Here’s a helpful guide from The Spruce Eats on selecting the best quality salmon.

Binding and Coating

• Egg: Serves as a binding agent to keep the patties intact.
• Bread crumbs or almond flour: Bread crumbs are great for a classic texture, while almond flour is an excellent low-carb alternative.
• Olive oil or butter: For frying the patties to a golden, crispy perfection.

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped scallions: Adds a subtle onion flavor that complements the salmon.
• Spices like paprika or garlic powder: For a smoky or savory twist, include these pantry staples to customize the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Salmon Patties

Making these salmon patties is straightforward, and the process ensures a crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior. Follow these easy steps to create a perfect dish every time.

1: Preparing the Salmon

• Use fresh salmon or drain canned salmon: If using fresh salmon, remove the skin and bones, then flake it with a fork. If you’re using canned salmon, simply drain and flake the fish, making sure to remove any bones.
• Add herbs, lemon zest, and seasonings: Stir in the fresh parsley, dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra depth.

2: Shaping and Binding

• Mix with egg and bread crumbs: In a large bowl, combine the prepared salmon with egg and bread crumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option). The egg helps bind the mixture, while the bread crumbs give the patties structure.
• Shape into even-sized patties: Use your hands to form the mixture into round or oval-shaped patties, making sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.

3: Cooking the Patties

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat: Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to a large skillet and heat over medium heat until hot.
• Cook patties until golden and crispy on both sides: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Be gentle when flipping them to avoid breaking.

Serving Suggestions for Salmon Patties

These fresh herb and lemon zest salmon patties are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a wide range of meal ideas. Whether you enjoy them as a quick dinner, a gourmet lunch, or a delightful snack, there are endless ways to serve and enjoy them.

Side Dishes to Serve with Salmon Patties

• Fresh green salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and avocado complements the richness of the salmon patties.
• Roasted vegetables: Pair your salmon patties with roasted veggies like carrots, asparagus, or bell peppers for a wholesome, balanced meal.
• Dipping sauces: A creamy dill yogurt sauce or classic tartar sauce adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the crispy patties.

Meal Ideas Using Salmon Patties

• Sandwiches or wraps: Place the salmon patties between soft buns or wraps with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a delicious meal on the go.
• Grain bowls: Add salmon patties to a nourishing grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a light dressing for a wholesome, filling meal.
• Salmon patty sliders: For a fun and bite-sized option, make mini sliders with salmon patties and top with pickles and a tangy mustard sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Salmon Patties

These fresh herb and lemon zest salmon patties are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a wide range of meal ideas. Whether you enjoy them as a quick dinner, a gourmet lunch, or a delightful snack, there are endless ways to serve and enjoy them.

Looking for the perfect side dishes? Check out this article on What to Serve with Salmon Patties for some great ideas!

Side Dishes to Serve with Salmon Patties

• Fresh green salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and avocado complements the richness of the salmon patties.
• Roasted vegetables: Pair your salmon patties with roasted veggies like carrots, asparagus, or bell peppers for a wholesome, balanced meal.
• Dipping sauces: A creamy dill yogurt sauce or classic tartar sauce adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the crispy patties.

Meal Ideas Using Salmon Patties

• Sandwiches or wraps: Place the salmon patties between soft buns or wraps with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a delicious meal on the go.
• Grain bowls: Add salmon patties to a nourishing grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a light dressing for a wholesome, filling meal.
• Salmon patty sliders: For a fun and bite-sized option, make mini sliders with salmon patties and top with pickles and a tangy mustard sauce.

Leftover Ideas for Salmon Patties

• Refrigerate and reheat: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven for a quick and tasty lunch the next day.
• Salmon patty salad: Crumble leftover patties over a bed of greens for a simple yet flavorful salad.

Expert Tips and Variations

To make your salmon patties even better, here are some expert tips and creative variations. These suggestions will help you achieve the perfect texture, enhance the flavor, and store leftovers properly for future enjoyment.

Tips for Perfect Patties

• Keep the salmon mixture slightly chunky: For a better texture, don’t over-mash the salmon. A slightly chunky mixture creates patties with a nice bite.
• Chill the patties: Before frying, chill your salmon patties in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This ensures they maintain their shape during cooking and prevents them from breaking apart.

Recipe Variations

• Make gluten-free patties: For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers properly: After enjoying your salmon patties, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks later on.

For more quick and healthy meal ideas, check out our easy weeknight dinner recipes that are perfect for busy evenings.

Chef’s Note:

This salmon patties recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With fresh herbs like parsley and dill, and the bright zing of lemon zest, these patties are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious snack, this recipe is both easy and satisfying.

We encourage you to give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any unique variations you’ve tried in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!