Name: Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 15 ounces canned salmon (three 5-ounce cans); 1 large egg; ¼ cup onion, grated; ½ cup breadcrumbs (such as Panko); ½ medium bell pepper, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; Vegetable oil, for frying (approximately 2 tablespoons)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 6 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and a little bit fancy, this Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe is an absolute must-try. These patties boast a perfect balance of zesty lemon, fragrant dill, and tender salmon flakes wrapped up in a crispy golden crust. Each bite is a delightful dance of texture and bright, fresh flavor, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to try something new, these salmon patties will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine small clear glass bowls arranged in a neat three-by-three grid on a white marbled surface. The top row has bowls filled with white grains, finely chopped green herbs, and a pale yellow liquid. The middle row holds a bowl of chopped green peppers on the left, a bowl of flaked orange fish in the center, and a bowl of finely shredded white substance on the right. The bottom row features a whole white egg on the left, a small bowl with black and white spices in the middle, and two small bowls on the right containing bright yellow zest and reddish-orange powder. The overall look is clean and colorful with distinct textures. A woman's hand is gently holding one side of the arrangement. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients are the heart of this Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe, each playing a key role in the dish’s delicious flavor and satisfying texture. From the flaky canned salmon to the fresh dill and lemon zest, every component is essential to bring these patties to life.

Canned salmon (15 ounces or 3 cans of 5 oz each): The main protein that provides a tender, flavorful base with a beautiful flaky texture.
Large egg (1): Acts as a natural binder to keep the patties together without crumbling.
Grated onion (¼ cup): Adds a mild aromatic sweetness and moisture to the mixture.
Panko breadcrumbs (½ cup): Provide a light, crispy coating and help absorb excess moisture.
Finely chopped bell pepper (½ medium): Brings a fresh crunch and a pop of color to the patties.
Fresh dill (2 tablespoons, chopped): Injects that unmistakable herby brightness that pairs so well with salmon.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Offers a burst of citrus aroma and flavor without sourness.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy lift that brightens the whole dish.
Sweet paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a warm, smoky depth and vibrant color.
Salt (½ teaspoon) and pepper (½ teaspoon): Season perfectly to enhance all the natural flavors.
Vegetable oil (for frying): Needed to achieve that irresistibly crisp exterior on each patty.

How to Make Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by opening your canned salmon and draining any excess liquid to keep the patties from becoming soggy. In a large bowl, add the salmon along with the egg, grated onion, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped bell pepper, fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly. You want an even distribution of all those wonderful flavors, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, or the patties might turn dense.

Step 2: Shape Patties

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape your patties. You should be able to form between 8 to 10 patties depending on your preferred size. Press them firmly enough so they hold together but not so hard they lose their lightness. This part is fun because it sets the stage for those beautiful golden discs that will sizzle in the pan.

Step 3: Fry the Patties

Heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your salmon patties carefully without overcrowding the pan; cooking in batches is the best approach. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they develop a golden-brown crust that gives way to a tender and flavorful inside. When done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your Lemon Dill Salmon Patties warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of citrus. These patties are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite toppings and sides.

How to Serve Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe

The dish shows two round, dark brown patties with some orange spots on top, each topped with a white sauce with green herbs. These patties sit on a bed of white, fluffy rice mixed with small bits of herbs and orange pieces, spread evenly across a white plate. On the top left and bottom left edges of the rice, there are two lemon wedges, bright yellow with a soft texture. Green sprigs of dill decorate parts of the rice near the lemon wedges, adding fresh green color. The plate is placed on a dark textured cloth over a white marbled surface. In the top right corner, a small bowl with a similar white sauce and green herbs is partly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For garnishes, fresh lemon wedges are a no-brainer because they enhance the vibrant flavors already present. A dollop of rich, creamy tartar sauce or a simple homemade dill yogurt sauce makes a perfect cool contrast to the crispy patties. Thinly sliced red onions or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or more dill brighten the presentation and the palate.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads tossed in light vinaigrette, roasted potatoes with herbs, or even a fluffy rice pilaf. Steamed or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or green beans are excellent choices that keep the meal light and balanced. You could also serve these patties on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato to make a fantastic salmon burger.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking outside the box? Try breaking the patties into chunks and serving over a bed of fresh greens with avocado slices and a drizzle of lemon-dill dressing for a bright salmon salad. Another idea is stacking the patties with layers of sliced cucumber, tomato, and a smear of cream cheese or aioli for a fun salmon patty tower. These ideas bring both excitement and elegance to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, place the salmon patties in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They keep well for up to 3 days and remain just as tasty when reheated gently, making them great for quick lunches or snacks.

Freezing

You can freeze these patties for longer storage by arranging them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. They freeze nicely for up to 3 months. This is perfect if you like to prep meals in advance without sacrificing flavor or texture later.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible as it can soften the crispy exterior. Instead, warm the salmon patties in a nonstick skillet over medium heat or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crisp again—usually about 10 minutes. This method ensures they stay deliciously crunchy and moist inside.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned for this Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh salmon can be used, but be sure to cook it fully and flake it before mixing with the other ingredients. Keep in mind that fresh salmon might require slight adjustments to the binder amounts to achieve the right consistency.

What can I substitute if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as alternatives. Panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture, but other options work fine in a pinch. Just be mindful of moisture levels and adjust if the mixture feels too wet or dry.

How do I prevent the patties from falling apart while frying?

Ensuring the correct ratio of binder ingredients like egg and breadcrumbs helps patties hold together. Also, avoid stirring or flipping too aggressively. Let them form that golden crust before gently turning to keep their shape intact.

Are Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These patties keep well in the fridge and freeze beautifully, making them excellent for meal prep. Warm them up as needed for quick, flavorful meals any day of the week.

Can I bake these salmon patties instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe enough—it’s a brilliant way to bring fresh, zesty flavors to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, these patties are a crowd-pleaser that feels homemade but special. Give them a try and enjoy the delicious rewards of a recipe that’s truly close to my heart.

Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need