Easy Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe to Try
If you’re craving a dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, Mediterranean Salmon Patties are exactly what you need. This recipe brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any time of day. Packed with vibrant herbs, tender salmon, and a touch of zesty lemon, these patties are a delightful twist on classic seafood dishes that will soon become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: The straightforward steps make this dish easy enough for a busy weeknight without sacrificing taste.
- Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with omega-3 rich salmon and fresh herbs to boost your nutrition with every bite.
- Versatile Meal: Whether served for lunch, dinner, or a snack, Mediterranean Salmon Patties fit any occasion.
- Fresh and Flavorful: Bright lemon and garlic enhance the natural flavors, making each patty irresistibly delicious.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your dietary needs or ingredient availability without losing its charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mediterranean Salmon Patties recipe plays a pivotal role in crafting the perfect balance of taste and texture. From the flaky salmon to the aromatic herbs, every component adds a unique touch that blends into a mouthwatering delight.
- Fresh salmon: Use wild or farmed salmon, cooked and flaked, for moist patties with rich flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: These provide the perfect binding agent to hold the patties together and add a hint of crunch.
- Egg: Acts as a natural binder, helping the patties keep their shape during cooking.
- Garlic and onion: These aromatics introduce depth and warmth without overpowering the fish.
- Fresh parsley and dill: Bright, herbal notes that bring freshness and a distinct Mediterranean flair.
- Lemon zest and juice: Adds zesty brightness, elevating the overall flavor while cutting through richness.
- Olive oil: Used for pan-frying, it imparts a subtle fruitiness and ensures a golden crust.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to highlight each ingredient perfectly.
Variations for Mediterranean Salmon Patties
One of the joys of Mediterranean Salmon Patties is how adaptable this recipe is. Feel free to personalize it by swapping or adding ingredients based on what you love or have on hand.
- Adding spices: Incorporate cumin or smoked paprika for a warm, smoky twist.
- Using canned salmon: A great time-saver option without compromising flavor or nutrition.
- Mixing in veggies: Finely diced bell peppers or grated zucchini add moisture and extra veggies.
- Binding alternatives: Substitute egg with flax or chia seeds for a vegan-friendly version.
- Cheese lovers: Fold in crumbled feta for an extra burst of Mediterranean charm.
How to Make Mediterranean Salmon Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start with cooked salmon and lightly flake it with a fork, removing any skin or bones to create a uniform texture perfect for mixing.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Combine the flaked salmon with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh herbs, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, and egg in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then mix gently until everything is just combined.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Shape the salmon mixture into evenly sized patties, about two to three inches in diameter, ensuring they hold together firmly but aren’t packed too tightly.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, then carefully add the patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Drain and Rest
Transfer the patties onto a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil, then let them rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Salmon Patties
- Don’t overmix: Gentle mixing keeps the patties tender instead of dense or rubbery.
- Proper heat: Medium heat ensures a golden crust without burning, evenly cooking the patties inside.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and dill brighten flavors far more than dried versions.
- Rest the patties: Allows the binding ingredients to set properly, preventing them from falling apart.
- Serve immediately: For the best texture and flavor, enjoy the patties soon after cooking.
How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon Patties
Garnishes
A simple dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce topped with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds cooling creaminess and a lovely color contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with a crisp salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives or alongside fluffy couscous and roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the patties tucked inside pita bread pockets with fresh lettuce and hummus, or make sliders with tangy pickles for a fun twist on a classic favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate cooked Mediterranean Salmon Patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping them fresh and ready for a quick reheat.
Freezing
Freeze the raw patties by placing them on a baking sheet to solidify before transferring into freezer bags; they’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm leftover patties gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve their crispy crust, or use a microwave for convenience, though the texture may soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon for Mediterranean Salmon Patties?
Yes, canned salmon is a convenient alternative that still delivers great flavor and nutrition. Just drain it well before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
Are Mediterranean Salmon Patties gluten-free?
You can easily make them gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Salmon Patties?
The patties pair beautifully with fresh salads, grains like quinoa or couscous, or a side of roasted Mediterranean vegetables.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Using enough binder ingredients like egg and breadcrumbs and not overmixing helps maintain their structure during cooking.
Can Mediterranean Salmon Patties be made vegan?
While traditional patties use salmon and egg, you can replace these with mashed chickpeas or lentils and flax or chia seed as binders for a vegan-friendly dish.
Final Thoughts
These Mediterranean Salmon Patties are a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful meal without fuss. Their bright, fresh ingredients and easy preparation make them an instant favorite, and I encourage you to try them for a delicious addition to your weekly menu. Once you taste these patties, I guarantee you’ll come back for seconds!
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PrintMediterranean Salmon Patties
Mediterranean Salmon Patties are a healthy and flavorful dish combining flaky salmon, fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic and onion. Easy to prepare and packed with omega-3s, these versatile patties can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, offering a fresh Mediterranean twist on classic seafood dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (8 patties) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free breadcrumbs are used)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked salmon, flaked (wild or farmed, skin and bones removed)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Start with cooked salmon and lightly flake it with a fork, removing any skin or bones to create a uniform texture perfect for mixing.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the flaked salmon with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley and dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, and egg in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then mix gently until everything is just combined.
- Form the Patties: Shape the salmon mixture into evenly sized patties, about two to three inches in diameter, ensuring they hold together firmly but aren’t packed too tightly.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, then carefully add the patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Rest: Transfer the patties onto a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil, then let them rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Notes
- Do not overmix the salmon mixture to keep patties tender instead of dense or rubbery.
- Cook over medium heat to achieve a golden crust without burning, and to cook evenly inside.
- Use fresh parsley and dill for the brightest flavor rather than dried herbs.
- Let patties rest after cooking so the binders set and prevent falling apart.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 patties
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: Mediterranean, salmon patties, healthy, gluten-free, seafood, quick meal, dinner, lunch, snack