Crispy Salmon Patties with Zesty Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Salmon patties with lemon-garlic sauce are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: crispy, golden-brown patties filled with tender salmon, herbs, and spices, all drizzled with a zesty lemon-garlic sauce that wakes up your taste buds like a strong cup of coffee on a Monday morning. It’s comfort food meets gourmet flair, perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself after a long day.

I remember the first time I made these salmon patties. My friends were skeptical at first—“Fish in a patty? Really?” they said, raising an eyebrow as if I’d suggested we eat gummy bears for dinner. But one bite later, their faces transformed from doubt to delight faster than you can say “lemon-garlic sauce.” Now, they’re regulars at my dinner table, especially during those cozy weekends when we need something tasty yet effortless.

I once served these delicious bites at a potluck where they disappeared faster than my attempt at being polite while passing the bread rolls.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Fresh Salmon: Choose skinless fillets; they’re easier to work with and ensure a juicy patty.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These add the perfect crunch; don’t skimp on them for that delightful texture.

• Eggs: Use large eggs to bind the mixture together without making it too dense.

• Fresh Herbs (Dill and Parsley): They brighten up the flavor profile; fresh is always better than dried.

• Lemon Juice and Zest: The zest adds fragrance while the juice brings acidity—both are essential for that punchy flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves work wonders here; they’ll infuse your patties with aromatic goodness.

• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings enhance all the flavors—don’t forget them!

• Olive Oil: For frying; it adds richness and ensures your patties achieve that gorgeous golden brown.

For the Sauce:

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both offer creaminess; Greek yogurt is slightly healthier but equally delicious.

• Lemon Juice: More acidity makes everything pop; adjust to your tart preference.

• Minced Garlic: Adds depth; feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Chopped Fresh Herbs (Dill or Parsley): They elevate your sauce and add freshness—don’t skip this step!

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

How to Make Salmon Patties Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Start by cooking your salmon fillets until they flake easily. Let them cool slightly before shredding into fine pieces. Add panko breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon juice and zest into the bowl. Mix until just combined.

Form the Patties: With clean hands (or those fancy kitchen gloves), shape your salmon mixture into small patties about 2 inches wide. Remember to press gently but firmly so they hold together during cooking.

Heat Your Pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until it shimmers like your future chef self. Carefully place each patty into the pan once it’s hot enough not to make you jump back in horror from splattering oil.

Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. You want that satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping them tender inside—basically fishy perfection!

Create the Lemon-Garlic Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped herbs, salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth; it should be creamy but still pourable for easy drizzling over those glorious patties.

Serve It Up: Plate your salmon patties with a generous drizzle of lemon-garlic sauce on top or on the side for dipping! Pair them with a light salad or roasted vegetables for an enticing meal that screams both comfort and sophistication.

Now you have it: scrumptious salmon patties paired perfectly with zesty lemon-garlic sauce! Enjoy every flavorful bite as you bask in your newfound culinary prowess!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sauté the patties in a hot skillet for that golden-brown crust, while preparing the lemon-garlic sauce simultaneously to save time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or add fresh herbs like dill for an extra flavor boost.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.

Sharing my first attempt at making salmon patties brings back memories of my family’s laughter when they turned out more like fish mush than patties!

FAQ

Can I use canned salmon for salmon patties?

Absolutely! Canned salmon works great and is super convenient.

What can I serve with salmon patties?

Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.

How do I know when my salmon patties are done?

They should be golden brown and heated through, about 5-6 minutes per side.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Salmon Patties with Lemon-Garlic Sauce

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Salmon patties with lemon-garlic sauce are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy, golden-brown patties filled with tender salmon and fresh herbs, topped with a zesty sauce that adds a burst of flavor. These delightful bites are perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home. Quick to prepare and simple to make, they offer a gourmet touch to your weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb fresh salmon fillets (skinless)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (dill or parsley)

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Instructions

1. Cook salmon fillets until they flake easily; let cool and shred.
2. In a bowl, combine shredded salmon, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, herbs, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties about 2 inches wide.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add patties to the pan.
5. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. For the sauce, mix yogurt or sour cream with minced garlic, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
7. Serve salmon patties drizzled with sauce or on the side for dipping.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 patty (70g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg