Sitting on the porch swing, the warm summer breeze carried the mouthwatering aroma of Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce wafting from the kitchen. It instantly transported me back to my grandma’s house, where she’d spend hours perfecting this family recipe. The sound of sizzling salmon and the zing of fresh lemon zest – it was like music to my ears. Even as a kid, I couldn’t get enough of Grandma’s famous Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce. They were the star of every backyard barbecue and holiday gathering.
I’ll never forget watching her mix the ingredients with her weathered hands, humming a familiar tune as she formed the tender salmon into perfectly golden patties. And the sauce – oh, the sauce! She’d whisk together the bright, citrusy flavors of lemon and garlic, creating a sauce so irresistible, we’d practically lick our plates clean. There was just something so comforting and satisfying about those Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce.
Why This Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce
This Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce recipe is truly something special. It’s not your average weeknight dinner – it’s a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. The secret lies in the perfect balance of tender, flaky salmon, zippy lemon, and fragrant garlic. Plus, the addition of a few unexpected ingredients takes these Salmon Patties to the next level of deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon is the star of the show. Look for salmon fillets that are vibrant in color and have a firm, moist texture.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide the perfect crispy coating for the Salmon Patties, giving them a satisfying crunch.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the Salmon Patties together.
- Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor to the Lemon Garlic Sauce.
- Garlic: Minced garlic lends its aromatic and savory essence to the Lemon Garlic Sauce.
- Mayonnaise: A touch of mayonnaise in the Salmon Patty mixture helps to keep the patties moist and tender.
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the Lemon Garlic Sauce.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the Salmon Patties.
Step-by-Step Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce Instructions
Preparing Your Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce
This Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce recipe is remarkably easy to make, but the results are nothing short of impressive. With just a few simple steps, you can have this delectable dish on the table in under an hour. Grab your mixing bowls and a nonstick skillet, and let’s get cooking!
1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, lemon zest, minced garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley. Gently mix until the ingredients are well incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
2- Form the salmon mixture into 8-10 evenly sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
3- Working in batches, cook the Salmon Patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Be sure to flip them gently to prevent them from falling apart.
4- While the Salmon Patties are cooking, prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce by whisking together the lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5- Once the Salmon Patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6- Serve the Salmon Patties warm, drizzled with the tantalizing Lemon Garlic Sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
Pro Tips for Success
- For extra-crispy Salmon Patties, chill the formed patties in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the Salmon Patties to ensure they develop a nice, golden-brown crust.
- If the Lemon Garlic Sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a splash of warm water or chicken broth.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste – add a little more lemon juice for a brighter flavor or a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat.
Serving and Storing Your Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Perfect Pairings for Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce
These Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish. Serve them as a main course with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a light and balanced meal. They also make an excellent appetizer, perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a casual weeknight dinner.
For a beverage pairing, a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemon-infused iced tea would be a delightful complement to the flavors of the Salmon Patties and Lemon Garlic Sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the patties in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the Salmon Patty mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. When ready to serve, simply form the patties and cook as directed.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Creative Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce Variations
Looking to mix things up? Try swapping the salmon for canned tuna or crab meat for a delicious twist on the classic Salmon Patties. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as dill, capers, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, to customize the flavors.
For a heartier meal, serve the Salmon Patties on a bed of roasted sweet potato wedges or a grain-based salad. The possibilities are endless!
Making Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, omit the breadcrumbs and bind the Salmon Patties with almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead.
And for a dairy-free and vegan option, use a plant-based mayonnaise in the Salmon Patty mixture and swap the Lemon Garlic Sauce for a cashew-based cream sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Canned salmon works great in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and flake the salmon before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Q: How can I prevent the Salmon Patties from falling apart?
A: Chilling the formed patties in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking will help them hold their shape better. Additionally, be sure not to overmix the salmon mixture and handle the patties gently when cooking.
Q: Can I make the Salmon Patties and Lemon Garlic Sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare both the Salmon Patty mixture and the Lemon Garlic Sauce in advance. Store the Salmon Patty mixture in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking, and the Lemon Garlic Sauce can be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge until ready to serve.
Q: How many Salmon Patties does this recipe make?
A: This recipe will yield 8-10 Salmon Patties, depending on the size you form them. The serving size is typically 2-3 patties per person.
Q: What should I do if the Salmon Patties are browning too quickly?
A: If the Salmon Patties are cooking too fast and becoming too dark on the outside before the inside is fully cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. This will help the patties cook through without burning the exterior.
Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 4
Description
These tender, flavorful Salmon Patties are elevated by a creamy, tangy Lemon Garlic Sauce, making them a quick and delicious family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
– 1 lb salmon, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
for the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. Form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. For the Lemon Garlic Sauce, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the warm Salmon Patties drizzled with the Lemon Garlic Sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
– For a healthier option, bake the patties in the oven at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
– Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or a skillet.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Salmon Patties with Lemon Garlic Sauce are a true family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to experience the same joy and nostalgia that I’ve felt every time I’ve enjoyed this dish. The combination of flaky, tender salmon, the bright and tangy Lemon Garlic Sauce, and the satisfying crunch of the Panko coating is simply irresistible.
Whether you’re serving these Salmon Patties as a main course, an appetizer, or a casual weeknight meal, I guarantee they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!