Crispy Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon – A Flavorful Delight

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

July 10, 2025

Updated:

July 10, 2025

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There’s something undeniably delightful about the crispy golden-brown exterior of salmon cakes with canned salmon, just waiting to be devoured. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, flaky center bursting with flavor. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” Not only do these cakes pack a punch in taste but they also elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

These salmon cakes are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening. I can still hear my family raving about them at last year’s summer barbecue, where they disappeared faster than I could say “salmon.” Perfect for busy weeknights or fancy gatherings, they promise an unforgettable flavor experience that will make you want seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These salmon cakes are easy to prepare and come together in no time

With their rich flavor profile, they are sure to impress your guests
Visually appealing with a crispy crust and tender interior, they’re perfect for any occasion

Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course!

I remember the first time I made salmon cakes with canned salmon for my friends—they were so impressed that they thought I had spent hours in the kitchen!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Canned Salmon: Opt for high-quality canned salmon for the best taste; look for wild-caught if possible.
Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or seasoned breadcrumbs; both add great texture and help bind the mixture.
Eggs: Use large eggs to bind everything together without making the mixture too wet.

Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a mild yet vibrant flavor; chop them finely for even distribution.
Mayonnaise: A dollop of mayonnaise adds creaminess; use full-fat for richness or light for fewer calories.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy kick; adjust based on your taste preference.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors; don’t skimp on this!
Spices (Salt & Pepper): Essential for enhancing all the other flavors—season generously!
Oil (for frying): Use vegetable oil or olive oil to achieve that perfect crispy finish.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare yourself for some culinary magic as we whip up these scrumptious salmon cakes in no time!

Mixing It All Together: In a large bowl, combine drained canned salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until well-blended and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Seasoning Delightfully: Sprinkle salt and pepper into the mixture according to your taste preferences. You can also add garlic powder or paprika if you want an extra flavor boost.

Shaping the Cakes: With clean hands, form the mixture into patties about 3 inches wide. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper as you shape each one—this helps keep them intact when frying.

Frying Time!: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot (test by dropping in a breadcrumb—it should sizzle), carefully add patties without overcrowding the pan.

Crisping Up!: Fry each side until golden brown and crispy—about 4-5 minutes per side should do it! Flip gently using a spatula to avoid breaking them apart.

Serving Suggestions: Once cooked through and beautifully browned, transfer your salmon cakes onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce!

And there you have it—deliciously crispy salmon cakes ready to enjoy! Whether you pair them with a fresh salad or serve them on their own with some zesty sauce, you’ll see why they quickly become a household favorite.

Now grab your apron and get cooking! You’ll soon find that these salmon cakes with canned salmon are not just another recipe but rather an invitation to gather around the table and create lasting memories with every bite.

You Must Know

Salmon cakes with canned salmon are a quick and easy dinner option

They are packed with flavor and make great use of pantry staples
Plus, they’re perfect for impressing guests while keeping your cooking stress-free

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ingredients for your salmon cakes in one bowl while preheating your skillet. This way, you can cook them immediately after preparation for maximum freshness and crispiness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or add veggies like corn or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Herbs like dill or parsley can also elevate your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispy exterior.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making salmon cakes with canned salmon, drain the fish well to avoid sogginess
Use fresh herbs to enhance flavor
Don’t skip chilling the mixture before cooking; it helps hold the cakes together better

Creating my first batch of salmon cakes was a chaotic adventure! My cat nearly knocked over all my ingredients, but when I finally served them, everyone wanted more—it was pure joy!

FAQs

FAQ

Can you use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, fresh salmon is delicious but requires more preparation time.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs.

What’s the best sauce to serve with salmon cakes?

Tartar sauce or a zesty lemon aioli pairs perfectly with these flavorful cakes.

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