Canned Salmon Patties

This recipe for Canned Salmon Patties is a tribute to those cherished family moments. It’s straightforward yet delicious, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a make-ahead meal that you can enjoy later. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile, ideal for serving with a variety of sides or even turning into a hearty salmon burger.

Ingredients:

1 can (14.75 oz) of salmon
1/3 cup bread crumbs
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 egg, beaten
4 tablespoons butter (for frying)
Lemon and dill (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon
Start by opening the can of salmon and draining it thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove excess liquid that can make the patties too mushy. After draining, carefully remove any bones and skin from the salmon. While canned salmon typically comes with soft bones that are edible, you might prefer to remove them for a smoother texture. Flake the salmon with a fork to break it into smaller pieces, making it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with bread crumbs, chopped green onions, and chopped celery. The bread crumbs will help bind the patties together, while the green onions and celery add a fresh crunch and flavor. Add the mayonnaise, which provides moisture and a creamy texture to the patties. Finally, add the beaten egg to help hold everything together.
Mix all these ingredients thoroughly. It’s important to ensure that the mixture is well combined but not over-mixed. You want the ingredients to be evenly distributed without breaking down the salmon too much.
3. Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Each patty should be about 1/2 inch thick. If you prefer smaller patties, you can make more than four and adjust the cooking time accordingly. For a classic dinner, make two patties for this meal and save the other two for later use, such as in a salmon burger.
4. Heat the Pan
In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over low heat. The butter should be melted just enough to coat the bottom of the pan without burning. This step is essential for achieving a golden-brown crust on the patties. Once the butter is melted, increase the heat to medium.
5. Cook the Patties
Add the salmon patties to the pan. Cook them on medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You might need to adjust the heat to ensure that the patties cook evenly without burning. The exterior should be crispy, while the inside remains moist and flavorful.
6. Serve
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess butter. This step helps keep the patties crispy. Serve the salmon patties hot, garnished with a sprinkle of dill seed and a splash of lemon juice for added freshness.
7. Accompaniments
For a classic meal, pair the patties with boiled, cut-up potatoes, a hard-boiled egg, cream gravy, and some Candied Crunchy Dill Pickles on the side. These sides complement the salmon patties beautifully, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.