Growing up, my family had a ritual of gathering around the dinner table on Friday nights for a home-cooked meal. One of my all-time favorite dishes was my mom’s Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties. The perfectly golden-brown exterior, the tender and flavorful salmon interior, and the delightful crunch of the sesame seed coating – it was a culinary masterpiece that I could never resist.
As I got older and started cooking for myself, I found myself craving those nostalgic flavors. After countless attempts and experimentation, I finally perfected the recipe, and now I’m excited to share it with you. Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties have become my go-to dish for everything from casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties.
Why This Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties
What makes this Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties recipe so special? It all comes down to the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the preparation – by finely chopping the fresh salmon fillets, you create a delicate yet cohesive texture that holds together beautifully when formed into patties. The panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds provide a satisfying crunch, while the garlic and onion powders add depth and complexity to the overall taste.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
At the heart of this recipe are the high-quality ingredients that work together to create a truly exceptional dish. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
- 1 pound fresh salmon fillets, skin removed and finely chopped: The star of the show, the fresh salmon provides the perfect base for the Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties. Finely chopping it ensures a delicate and uniform texture.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: These light and airy Japanese breadcrumbs give the patties their signature crispy exterior, perfectly complementing the tender salmon interior.
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds: The addition of toasted sesame seeds not only adds a beautiful visual element but also a delightful nutty flavor that ties the whole dish together.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: The eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the patties together and giving them a cohesive structure.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: A small amount of flour helps to create a sturdy exterior, ensuring the patties hold their shape during the cooking process.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the salmon and create a well-balanced taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on the outside of the patties.
Step-by-Step Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties Instructions
Preparing Your Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties
With a total time of just 30 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking), this Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties recipe is a true weeknight lifesaver. All you’ll need is a mixing bowl, a skillet, and a few key kitchen tools to get started.
1- Begin by finely chopping the fresh salmon fillets, ensuring that the pieces are uniform in size. This will help the patties hold their shape during cooking.
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, beaten eggs, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until they are well incorporated.
3- Divide the salmon mixture into 8 equal portions and gently shape them into round patties, each about 1/2 inch thick.
4- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the salmon patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5- Carefully flip the patties using a spatula, taking care not to break them apart. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through.
6- Once the Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties are golden brown and cooked to your liking, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of additional sesame seeds if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Chill the salmon mixture before forming the patties – this helps the ingredients bind together and prevents the patties from falling apart during cooking.
- Use a light touch when forming the patties – overworking the mixture can result in dense, tough patties.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your patties – thinner patties may cook faster, so keep a close eye on them.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook the patties in batches if necessary to maintain the crispy texture.
Serving and Storing Your Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties
Perfect Pairings for Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties
These Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties are a versatile main dish that can be served in a variety of ways. For a complete and satisfying meal, I recommend pairing them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple side of steamed rice. The nutty, savory flavors of the patties also pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing citrus-based cocktail.
Remember, this recipe yields 8 servings, so it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the week.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties are incredibly easy to prepare in advance. Simply form the patties, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, transfer the frozen patties directly from the freezer to the hot skillet and cook as directed, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
If you have any leftover cooked patties, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the patties on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties
Creative Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties Variations
While this classic Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties recipe is sure to become a family favorite, there are plenty of ways to put your own twist on it. Try adding a touch of heat with the addition of diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For a brighter flavor, incorporate lemon zest or chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives. You can also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or gluten-free options, to suit your dietary needs.
Making Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, skip the breadcrumbs and use ground pork rinds or almond flour instead. If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan alternative, substitute the eggs with a flax or chia egg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
A: While fresh salmon is ideal for this recipe, you can certainly use canned salmon in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and flake the canned salmon before incorporating it into the mixture.
Q: How long do the Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties take to cook?
A: The total cooking time for this recipe is 15 minutes. The patties are cooked for 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat, so the entire cooking process takes about 15 minutes.
Q: Can I make the patties ahead of time and freeze them?
A: Absolutely! The patties can be formed, placed on a baking sheet, and frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, transfer the frozen patties directly to the hot skillet and cook as directed, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties recipe yields 8 servings.
Q: What if my patties are falling apart during cooking?
A: If you’re having trouble with the patties holding their shape, try chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before forming the patties. This helps the ingredients bind together more effectively. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to the mixture to help it hold its form.
Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Indulge in the delightful crunch and savory flavors of these Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and healthy seafood dinner option.
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh salmon fillets, skin removed and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Carefully add the salmon patties to the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve the Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For best results, chill the formed patties in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape. You can also bake the patties at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Seafood & Meatless
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties are a true culinary delight that will have your family and friends raving. With their perfect balance of flavors, crispy exterior, and tender salmon interior, these patties are sure to become a new staple in your recipe repertoire.
I hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to try your hand at making these irresistible Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out – I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations! Happy cooking!