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Lemon Garlic Salmon Cakes Recipe

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3.8 from 2 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Lemon Garlic Salmon Cakes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Made with baked salmon, seasoned panko breadcrumbs, fresh garlic, shallots, and a zing of lemon zest, these salmon cakes are perfect as a light meal or appetizer. Ready in just 20 minutes and serving 12, they’re ideal for quick family dinners or entertaining guests.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Salmon Cake Ingredients

  • 1 pound salmon fillets (can use canned salmon, see notes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (may need more for cooking in batches)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the salmon fillets.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish with the skin side down if they have skin.
  3. Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until it flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  4. Mix Ingredients: Once baked, shred the salmon and place it into a large mixing bowl. Add the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, paprika, minced shallot, minced garlic, lemon zest, and eggs. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  5. Form Salmon Cakes: Take handfuls of the mixture and squeeze tightly into balls. Flatten each ball to about 1/2-inch thickness and shape the edges into circles to form 12 evenly sized cakes.
  6. Cook Salmon Cakes: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon cakes for approximately 4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until fully cooked through and crispy on both sides.

Notes

  • You can substitute fresh salmon fillets with canned salmon for convenience. Drain and flake canned salmon before mixing.
  • If cooking in batches, you may need to add extra olive oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
  • Serve these salmon cakes with a side of tartar sauce, a fresh salad, or lemon wedges for extra flavor.
  • For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular panko.
  • Ensure salmon cakes are cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking and Frying
  • Cuisine: American