Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you’re in the mood for something vibrant, satisfying, and just a touch fancy without any fuss, Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are about to become your new weeknight hero. Crisp on the outside, tender within, and served with a luxuriously tangy sauce, this dish is so much more than the sum of its parts. Whether you start with canned salmon or flake up some freshly cooked fish, this meal will have your whole table swooning and going back for seconds. From brunches to busy family dinners, Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are always a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long list to make Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce, but each ingredient truly matters. Every element brings either moisture, flavor, or that irresistible crunch, coming together to create a mouthwatering and picture-perfect meal.

• Salmon (2 cans or 12 oz cooked fresh): The star of the show, bringing rich flavor and lovely texture; canned or freshly cooked both work beautifully.
• Bread crumbs (½ cup): Panko makes it extra crispy, but regular does the trick for a comforting, classic bite.
• Egg (1 large): Acts as a super-glue, holding your patties together so they flip perfectly every time.
• Onion (¼ cup, finely chopped): Adds a subtle bite that wakes up the flavors of the salmon.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Chopped parsley brightens the patties and adds a pop of fresh green.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Convenient and mellow, so each bite is infused with garlicky goodness.
• Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Boosts umami and brings savory depth to the mixture.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for enhancing every ingredient.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon): For a touch of color and smoky undertone.
• Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Kicks up the flavor and helps everything stick together.
• Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): Makes the patties moist, never dry.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Cuts through richness and keeps things bright.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons for frying): For a golden, crispy exterior.
• Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (½ cup, for the sauce): The cool, creamy base for your dreamy lemon-garlic sauce.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon, for the sauce): Liveliness and tang in every drizzle.
• Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): The secret weapon for pure lemon fragrance.
• Garlic clove (1, minced): Ensures the sauce packs a savory punch.
• Honey (½ teaspoon, optional): Tames the tang just the right amount, if you like a softer sauce.
• Dijon mustard (½ teaspoon, for the sauce): For another subtle layer of flavor.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Season the sauce exactly how you love it.

How to Make Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Start by gathering everything into one big mixing bowl — flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, onion, parsley, garlic and onion powders, salt, pepper, paprika, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a hit of fresh lemon juice. Gently stir just until combined (don’t overmix!), and if the mixture feels a little loose, sprinkle in a few more breadcrumbs. If it’s dry, an extra spoon of mayo works wonders. The goal is a slightly sticky, cohesive mixture that will hold its shape when pressed together.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Now the fun part: take a scoop of your salmon mixture and shape it into a patty about 2 to 3 inches wide. Repeat for the whole batch and lay them out on a plate. Letting them sit for about 5 to 10 minutes in the fridge helps them firm up, making them much easier to cook without breaking apart.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon Patties

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, carefully place your patties in the pan, giving them enough room so they don’t steam. Cook each one for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden-brown crust and a sizzling, savory aroma that fills your kitchen. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any extra oil.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

While the patties cool for a minute, whip up your luscious sauce. In a small bowl, stir together Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, honey if desired, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and tweak to your liking — go brighter with more lemon or a bit richer with extra honey. This Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce is what truly sets these Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce apart, giving each bite a zippy, smooth, and slightly tangy finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ready for the best part? Plate your salmon patties, then drizzle that vibrant sauce over the top or serve it in a bowl for communal dunking. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few lemon wedges for a lovely finishing touch. Sit back and watch the smiles appear!

How to Serve Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

A flourish of extra chopped parsley and thinly sliced green onions add color and freshness to your Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce. Don’t forget a few zesty lemon wedges on the side for anyone who wants even more citrus sparkle. Consider a light sprinkle of smoked paprika for a pop of color!

Side Dishes

These patties pair beautifully with simple sides like a green salad tossed with vinaigrette, crisp roasted potatoes, or fluffy rice pilaf. For more of a brunch vibe, serve them with sliced avocado and a light cucumber salad — the freshness balances the richness of the salmon perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try tucking Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce into a brioche bun with lettuce and tomato for a crave-worthy sandwich. Or, make mini patties for appetizers and serve each one on a cucumber round with a dollop of sauce for a lovely passed hors d’oeuvre. The possibilities for a playful, crowd-pleasing spread are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce keep surprisingly well in the fridge. Store patties and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, simply reheat and enjoy with fresh sauce for another meal that feels every bit as special as the first round.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooked and cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months! The sauce is best made fresh, but you can freeze the patties with wonderful results.

Reheating

For extra-crispy results, reheat Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce in a skillet with a touch of oil, or pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but your patties will be softer. With the sauce, just spoon right from the fridge or let it warm briefly on the counter.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure your fresh salmon is fully cooked and flaked before mixing it in. This not only brings a delicate texture but also lets you highlight seasonal or leftover salmon from another meal.

What breadcrumbs are best for these patties?

Panko breadcrumbs lend extra crunch, but regular or even homemade breadcrumbs work beautifully. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed, keeping the patties tender and full of flavor.

How do I keep my salmon patties from falling apart?

The egg and mayonnaise in this recipe help bind everything together, but if your mixture seems crumbly, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of milk until the mixture holds its shape when pressed.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce for Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a few hours.

Are these patties good cold or only warm?

They’re delicious both ways. Try leftover Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce cold in sandwiches or sliced over salad for a fresh and super easy lunch.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be surprised if Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce become a regular request at your house. They’re easy, so flavorful, and fun for any occasion. Whether you make them for a cozy family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. Roll up your sleeves, get those lemons ready, and treat yourself to some homemade magic tonight!

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