Easy and Delicious Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon Recipe

By Sophie Hart – Recipes and Home Inspiration

March 23, 2025

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The aroma of golden-brown salmon cakes wafts through the kitchen like a siren song, promising crispy edges and tender insides that make your taste buds dance. Each bite bursts with flavor, infused with herbs and spices that elevate the humble canned salmon into culinary stardom. Imagine your friends gathered around the table, eyes widening as you present this delightful dish; the anticipation is almost palpable.

You remember the first time you made these little gems; it was a rainy day when takeout felt too tiresome. With just a few pantry staples and a can of salmon lurking in the cupboard, you transformed an ordinary afternoon into a delightful culinary adventure. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these salmon cakes are bound to steal the show!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These scrumptious salmon cakes are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Bursting with savory flavors and crispy texture, they’ll leave everyone asking for more
Their vibrant golden color makes them visually appetizing on any plate
Versatile enough to serve as appetizers or main dishes, they fit any occasion seamlessly

I still chuckle when my friend asked if I had summoned some kind of culinary magic when she first tasted these delightful treats.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Canned Salmon: Opt for skinless and boneless varieties for ease and tenderness in your cakes.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs, but panko gives extra crunch if you’re feeling fancy.
Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind everything together beautifully.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or dill adds freshness that brightens every bite.
Green Onions: These lend a mild onion flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice will enhance flavors and add zesty brightness.
Salt and Pepper: Always season to your taste; don’t be shy!
Olive Oil: For frying those glorious patties until golden brown; it’s where the magic happens!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by draining the canned salmon thoroughly; you want all that excess liquid gone so your cakes hold together nicely. Flake the fish into a large bowl with a fork until there are no large chunks remaining.

Add the Bindings: Next, toss in breadcrumbs and whisked eggs into the bowl. These two ingredients work together to create a cohesive mixture that won’t fall apart during frying.

Toss in Flavor: Add chopped fresh herbs and green onions along with lemon juice to infuse brightness into your mixture. Mix everything carefully but don’t overdo it or your cakes might become tough.

Form Patties: With clean hands (or gloved hands if you’re feeling chef-like), shape your mixture into small patties about 3 inches wide. Think of them as little golden nuggets waiting for their moment to shine!

Fry Away: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add your patties one at a time and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown.

Savor the Moment: Once cooked through, transfer them onto paper towels to absorb excess oil before serving hot. Enjoy every bite while basking in admiring glances from friends and family!

Now go ahead and try making these amazing salmon cakes with canned salmon; you’ll find they not only taste divine but also fill your kitchen with laughter and joy!

You Must Know

Salmon cakes with canned salmon are not only quick to make but also incredibly flavorful
The aroma of sautéing onions and the crispy texture will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds
These cakes are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer for guests

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by draining the canned salmon thoroughly, then mix with breadcrumbs and seasonings before shaping into patties. Cook them in a hot skillet until golden brown.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor twist. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for best results, ensuring they remain crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked salmon cakes, ensure your oil is hot before adding patties to avoid sogginess
Avoid overmixing the ingredients to keep them tender
Let them rest briefly after cooking to enhance their flavors and textures

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first dinner party, where friends devoured my salmon cakes with delight while I nervously presented my culinary masterpiece.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, fresh salmon can be used, but ensure it’s cooked and flaked properly.

How long do these salmon cakes last in the fridge?

They can last up to three days when stored correctly in an airtight container.

What sauces pair well with salmon cakes?

Tartar sauce, lemon aioli, and spicy mayo all complement the flavors beautifully.

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