If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, fresh flavors and comforting textures, the Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, flaky wild-caught salmon blended with vibrant herbs, tangy feta, and zesty lemon, all pan-fried to a golden crisp. This recipe perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking, offering a dish that’s both wholesome and unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, these salmon patties bring warmth and a touch of sunshine to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, the ingredients in this recipe come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures that define these patties. Each component plays a unique role, from the richness of the salmon to the freshness of the herbs, creating a dish that’s both colorful and full of personality.
- Wild-caught salmon (2 cans, 6 oz each): The star of the dish, providing a rich, flaky base packed with omega-3 goodness.
- Breadcrumbs or almond flour (1/2 cup): Acts as a binder to hold the patties together while adding a slight crunch; choose almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Feta cheese, crumbled (1/4 cup): Adds a creamy, salty tang that lifts the entire flavor profile beautifully.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp): Infuses brightness and a hint of herbaceous freshness.
- Fresh dill, chopped (1 tbsp): Offers a classic Mediterranean herbal note that pairs perfectly with salmon.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Brings an aromatic punch and warms the palate.
- Red onion, finely diced (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle bite and textural contrast without overpowering.
- Large egg (1): Works as a natural binder to keep the patties intact during cooking.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp plus 2 tbsp for cooking): Adds richness to the mixture and ensures a crisp, golden crust when frying.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp) and lemon juice (1 tbsp): Provide zingy acidity to brighten and balance the richness of the salmon and cheese.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.
How to Make Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by flaking the wild-caught salmon into a large mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs or almond flour, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, dill, minced garlic, finely diced red onion, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This mix is where the magic begins as the vibrant colors and aromas come together in a bowl, promising a dish full of life and flavor.
Step 2: Add Egg and Seasonings
Next, crack the large egg into the bowl. Season everything generously with salt and pepper. The egg acts as a crucial binder, ensuring your patties hold their shape during cooking. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined—you want a consistent mixture that’s easy to handle but not too wet.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into patties approximately 3-4 inches in diameter. This recipe should yield about 8-10 patties, each one lovingly shaped to hold a perfect balance of ingredients in every bite.
Step 4: Heat the Pan and Cook
Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon patties in the pan. Cook them in batches if needed, so they don’t crowd each other—this helps achieve that beautiful, crispy exterior everyone loves. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Drain and Rest
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them rest for a moment; this keeps the patties crispy on the outside but tender inside, making each bite simply irresistible.
How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, fresh and cool complements work best. A dollop of Greek yogurt or creamy tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing, tangy finish that contrasts wonderfully with the warm, crispy patties. Sprinkle some extra parsley or dill on top for a pop of color and herbal aroma that invites you to dive right in.
Side Dishes
Pair your Mediterranean Salmon Patties with light, vibrant sides like a Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil. Roasted vegetables or a simple lemony quinoa salad also provide healthy, satisfying companions without overpowering the star dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by turning these patties into handheld delights by serving them on pita bread with a slather of hummus and crisp lettuce. Alternatively, layer them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside grilled asparagus for an elegant dinner presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mediterranean Salmon Patties keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain freshness and prevent condensation from making them soggy.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these patties in advance, they freeze beautifully. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze individually until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months. This makes for an easy and nutritious meal ready whenever you need it.
Reheating
To reheat, toast the patties in a hot skillet with a little olive oil to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, warming them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes works well too. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the patties less crispy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned for this Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh salmon fillets and flake them for the patties. Just make sure the salmon is fully cooked and cooled before mixing. Fresh salmon will give the patties a slightly different texture but still an amazing flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or another gluten-free alternative. This keeps the patties bound and delicious without compromising taste.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart during cooking?
Using the egg and breadcrumbs or almond flour as binders is key. Also, avoid handling the patties too much and make sure the pan is adequately heated before placing them in, so they form a crust and hold together better.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan or don’t have feta on hand, you can use goat cheese or even small cubes of mozzarella for a milder flavor. Each will add a nice creaminess that complements the salmon well.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. It’s a healthier option and still yields tasty results.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe with you has been such a joy because it’s truly a dish that feels like a warm hug from the Mediterranean sun. Effortless to make yet packed with vibrant flavors, these patties bring a bit of magic to any table. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a favorite for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Mediterranean Salmon Patties are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish featuring wild-caught salmon combined with fresh herbs, feta cheese, and a hint of lemon. Crisply pan-fried to golden perfection, they make a perfect weeknight dinner or appetizer served with Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (6 oz each) wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for mixing)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, dill, minced garlic, diced red onion, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well incorporated.
- Add egg and season: Crack the egg into the bowl and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until the mixture holds together and is evenly combined.
- Form patties: Shape the mixture into 8 to 10 patties, each about 3 to 4 inches in diameter, ensuring they are compact to prevent falling apart during cooking.
- Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook patties: Carefully place the salmon patties into the hot skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for 4 to 5 minutes until patties are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and cooked through inside.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the patties from the skillet using a spatula and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the salmon patties warm alongside Greek yogurt, tzatziki sauce, or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a delightful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated and reheated gently in a skillet or oven.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can work if fresh are unavailable (reduce amounts accordingly).
