Easy Salmon Patty Recipe (without eggs)

This easy Salmon Patty recipe is made without eggs—an effortless and flavorful fish cake using either fresh or canned salmon. Perfect for busy weeknights, these salmon cakes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with fresh flavors. Made with mashed potatoes, frozen peas, and  fresh herbs, these patties are not only delicious but also a convenient, wholesome option for a quick meal that everyone will love.

Salmon is not only a delicious fish but also an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for supporting heart health. This easy Salmon Patty recipe is a perfect option for those looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without the hassle of eggs and bread. Using fresh salmon or canned salmon, you can control the amount of added fat and make these patties on the healthier side, especially when using olive oil for cooking.

One of the best things about these salmon cakes is how simple they are to prepare. There's no need for eggs or messy breadcrumbs—just a few basic ingredients and you’ll have a crispy, golden brown patty with a tender, flaky interior. These Salmon Patty are perfect for a busy weeknight or as a make-ahead meal; simply prepare the patties and store them in the fridge until you're ready to fry them. With every bite, you’ll get that satisfying crunch on the outside and tender, juicy salmon on the inside.

Whether you call them salmon cakes, salmon burgers, or salmon croquettes, one thing is for sure—this egg-free salmon patty recipe is always a hit. It's a versatile, hassle-free dish that can be served with your favorite dipping sauces, a side of sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a go-to meal in our kitchen.

Jump to:

• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• How to Make Salmon Patties
• Chef’s Tips
• Variations
• What to Serve With these Salmon Patties
• Storage Instructions
• Best Wine Pairings for these Easy Salmon Patties
• FAQ's
• Easy Salmon Patty Recipe (without eggs)

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Fresh: These salmon cakes are packed with fresh salmon, herbs, and seasonings, creating a bright, fresh flavor in every bite. The tender salmon filets paired with fresh dill and parsley make this dish incredibly satisfying.
• Healthy: Using fresh salmon ensures a nutrient-rich dish, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. 
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make these Salmon Patties ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. 

Ingredients

• Fresh Salmon or Canned Salmon: The star of this recipe. You can use either fresh salmon filets or canned salmon, depending on your preference.
• Floury Potatoes: These give structure to the patties and help bind the ingredients together without using eggs.
• Butter: Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the salmon mixture.
• Frozen Peas: Provides a pop of color and a subtle sweetness, balancing the savory flavors.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Dill): These add a fresh flavor, making the salmon cakes taste light and aromatic.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavor of the salmon and other ingredients.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used for dusting, helping to create a crispy outer layer when frying.
• Olive Oil: Perfect for shallow frying the patties to get that crispy, golden brown finish.

See the recipe card for quantities

How to Make Salmon Patties

Prepare the Potatoes

• Boil the potatoes in salted water over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, until they are tender.
• Drain well and transfer the potatoes to a bowl.
• Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes roughly (they don’t need to be completely smooth). Add the cubed butter and mix until combined.

Prepare the Salmon

• While the potatoes are cooking, place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Place into the oven and bake at (180°C/350°F) for 10 - 15 minutes at or until the internal temp of the fish reaches (63°C/145°F ) .
• Remove salmon from the oven and let it cool.
• Once the salmon is cool. Use a fork to flake the salmon, discarding the skin.

Prepare the Peas

• Place the frozen peas in a heatproof bowl.
• Pour boiling water over the peas and let them sit for 3-4 minutes. Drain thoroughly.

Assemble the Salmon Patties

• Add the flaked salmon and peas to the mashed potatoes. Mix in the fresh herbs.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Add ½ cup breadcrumbs if your mixture is not stiff enough to hold its shape.
• Once the mixture has cooled enough to handle, shape it into 12 equal-sized patties using a 4cm (1.5 inch) round cookie cutter.

Cook the Salmon Patties

• Lightly dust a baking sheet with flour and coat each patty in a thin layer of flour.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Fry the patties in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Keep the cooked patties warm in a low oven while you finish frying the rest.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Salmon Patty with homemade tartar sauce and a fresh green salad.

Chef’s Tips

• Can of salmon: Opt for a can of salmon if you're short on time. Canned salmon works just as well as fresh salmon and is a pantry-friendly option.
• Alternative flour options: If you're avoiding all-purpose flour, try almond meal, coconut flour, or gluten free all purpose flour to give the patties a crispy outer layer while keeping them gluten-free.
• Panko bread crumbs: Add extra crunch by using panko bread crumbs for a light and crispy texture when frying the patties.
• Saltine crackers: Crushed saltine crackers are a classic ingredient in traditional southern Salmon Patty and can be used in place of breadcrumbs for a subtle salty crunch.

Variations

• Spicing it up: Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicier kick in your salmon cakes.
• Adding vegetables: Mix in finely chopped red bell peppers, green onions, or spinach to give your patties extra texture and nutritional value.
• Fresh herbs: Switch up the flavor by using different herbs such as cilantro, basil, or chives instead of fresh dill and parsley.
• Other fish: This recipe works well with other types of fish like white fish fillets, tuna, or even crab for a delicious alternative to salmon.

What to Serve With these Salmon Patties

• As an appetizer: Serve these Salmon Patties as bite-sized portions with a dipping sauce like tartar sauce, remoulade or tzatziki.
• Make a Quick Sandwich: Place the Salmon Patty between slices of whole-grain bread or in a pita for a quick and easy meal.
• Make a Burger or Slider: Turn the patties into delicious salmon burgers or sliders by adding them to brioche buns with tartar sauce and toppings like lettuce and pickles.
• Light Lunch: Serve with a fresh green salad and vinaigrette for a lighter, balanced meal.
• As a Main Course: Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a complete and hearty meal.

Storage Instructions

Fridge

• Store leftover Salmon Patties in an airtight container for 2 - 3 days.

Freezer

• Place patties on a parchment-lined baking tray and flash freeze.
• Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container. They will last for 2-3 months.
• Defrost in the refrigerator before frying or reheating.

Note on freezing: While it is perfectly safe to freeze these salmon patties, we don't recommend freezing them. The texture changes completely because of the potato in the mixture when they are defrosted and reheated.

Reheat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C). Place defrosted salmon cakes on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes.
• Frying Pan: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook salmon cakes for 4-6 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy.

Best Wine Pairings for these Easy Salmon Patties

• White Wine Options: A lightly oaked Chardonnay is one of the most reliable pairings for Salmon Patties, bringing out the richness of the salmon. For a crisper option, try a Chenin Blanc or Pinot Blanc, both of which offer fresh acidity to balance the flavors. A Sauvignon/Semillon blend works well if you want something with a little more complexity.
• Red Wine Options: Look for reds with subtle tannins and bright acidity like a Valpolicella blend or Gamay (known as Beaujolais in France). A light-bodied Pinot Noir is another great choice, and for a touch of sweetness and fizz, Lambrusco can pair surprisingly well with salmon cakes.
• Sparkling and Rosé Wines: The effervescence and balanced acidity in sparkling and rosé wines make them excellent matches for the crispy texture and savory flavor of the Salmon Patty.

FAQ's

This easy salmon patty recipe is an easy meal that’s both delicious and healthy. Whether you're using fresh salmon or a can of salmon, these salmon cakes will be a hit at your next family dinner. 

Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!

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The nutrition is an estimate only. It was calculated using Nutrifox, an online nutrition calculator.