Salmon cakes with canned salmon are a culinary delight that transform pantry staples into a gourmet treat. Imagine a crispy exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful filling bursting with the taste of fresh herbs and zesty lemon.

Every bite of these salmon cakes brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and delicious aromas wafted through the kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and joy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual brunches, these delightful bites promise to impress your guests and leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These salmon cakes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is both savory and refreshing, thanks to the herbs and spices
- Their golden-brown appearance is sure to catch everyone’s eye on the dinner table
- Versatile enough for serving as appetizers or main courses, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy them
I recall the first time I made salmon cakes; my friends devoured them like they were candy, leaving just crumbs behind!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Canned Salmon: Choose high-quality canned salmon for a rich flavor that’s easy to work with.
Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture; they help bind the cakes without making them dense.
Eggs: One or two eggs will help hold everything together; use fresh eggs for optimal binding.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill add brightness and freshness; feel free to mix depending on your preference.
Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest brightens flavors and adds a zingy aroma that’s hard to resist.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess; opt for full-fat mayo for richer flavor or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Oil for Frying: Use olive oil or vegetable oil; ensure it’s hot enough before adding the cakes for that perfect crispiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Open the canned salmon and drain it well, ensuring no excess liquid remains. Flake the salmon with a fork in a large mixing bowl.
Combine Ingredients: Add breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped herbs, lemon zest, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper into the bowl with the flaked salmon. Mix gently until evenly combined but do not overwork it.
Shape the Cakes: With clean hands, shape the mixture into patties about 2-3 inches wide. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper while you heat your oil.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to coat the bottom generously. Wait until it shimmers slightly before adding your patties.
Cook Until Golden Brown: Carefully place patties in hot oil without overcrowding. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve!: Once cooked, transfer the salmon cakes onto paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice or your favorite dipping sauce.
Now that you have perfected this recipe, get ready for compliments from family and friends!
You Must Know
- Salmon cakes with canned salmon are a quick and delicious meal option
- These little gems pack flavor and can be customized to suit your taste, making them perfect for any occasion
- With a crispy exterior and tender inside, they are sure to impress!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing all ingredients in a bowl while preheating your skillet. Shape your salmon cakes and cook them until golden brown on both sides for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap canned salmon for fresh fish or add herbs like dill or parsley. You can also experiment with different spices like cayenne for added heat.
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, preserving their crunchiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly crispy salmon cakes, make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking
- Use chilled ingredients for better texture and flavor
- A squeeze of lemon before serving brightens up the dish beautifully!
There was that one time I made salmon cakes for a family gathering, and my aunt declared them “life-changing.” Who knew canned salmon could create such culinary magic?
FAQ
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, fresh salmon works great and adds an even richer flavor to your cakes.
How do I prevent salmon cakes from falling apart?
Ensure you use enough binding agents like breadcrumbs or eggs to hold the mixture together.
What can I serve with salmon cakes?
Serve with tartar sauce, a side salad, or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Salmon Cakes
Salmon cakes made with canned salmon are a quick and delicious way to elevate pantry staples into a gourmet dish. These crispy, golden-brown delights are filled with tender salmon, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon kick, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual brunches. With just a few simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can create a flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable experience.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 can (14.75 oz) high-quality canned salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, flake the canned salmon until finely shredded.
- Add breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, lemon zest, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper; mix gently until combined.
- Shape the mixture into patties about 2-3 inches wide.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Cook patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with lemon juice or dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg