Salmon Patties with Homemade Tartar Sauce

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Growing up, Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition in my family. My mom would always find ways to turn simple ingredients into meals that brought us together. One of my favorite memories is her crispy, golden salmon patties served with a dollop of homemade tartar sauce. They were a staple because they were quick to prepare, packed with protein, and a great way to use up leftovers. Now, I want to share this simple yet delicious recipe with you.

This Salmon Patties with Homemade Tartar Sauce is perfect for beginners because it’s forgiving, adaptable, and requires minimal ingredients. You can make it with canned salmon or fresh leftovers, and the whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, in a sandwich, or as a main dish with a fresh salad, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why This Recipe is Special

Beginner-friendly – No advanced cooking skills are required, making it an excellent choice for those new to the kitchen.
Quick and convenient – Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Versatile – Can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a salmon burger.
Nutritious – Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s what you’ll need to make these salmon patties and why each ingredient is important:

Salmon (canned or fresh) – The star of the recipe, offering flaky texture and rich, savory flavor.
Onion and Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch while enhancing the patties’ overall taste.
Bread Crumbs (Panko or regular) – Helps bind the patties and keeps them crispy.

Egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
Mayonnaise – Adds moisture and richness to keep the patties from drying out.
Worcestershire Sauce – Deepens the umami flavor with a slightly tangy kick.

Garlic Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the taste.
Fresh Parsley – Brightens the flavors with its fresh, herbaceous notes.
Olive Oil & Butter – Used for frying to create a crisp golden crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Fresh salmon instead of canned – If using fresh salmon, cook and flake it before mixing it into the patties.
Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise – For a healthier option without sacrificing creaminess.
Crushed crackers instead of bread crumbs – Adds a slightly different texture but still works well as a binder.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a little butter with olive oil. Add diced onion and bell pepper, then sauté until soft and slightly golden, about 7-9 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, sautéed veggies, bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Patties
Using your hands, scoop about a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small, round patties (about 2 inches wide). If the mixture is too dry, add a little more mayo; if too wet, add extra bread crumbs.

Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat a pan over medium heat with olive oil and butter. Place the patties in a single layer and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. If they brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly.

Step 5: Drain and Serve
Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite sauce.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to tell if they’re done: The patties should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch.

If your patties fall apart: Add an extra beaten egg or a bit more bread crumbs to help bind them together.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed so they brown evenly.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in an air fryer until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Style: Serve with tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
As a Sandwich: Place inside a bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of aioli for a salmon burger.
With Sides: Pair with a fresh salad like cucumber and tomato salad, roasted veggies, or garlic mashed potatoes.

Breakfast Option: Serve with a poached egg on top for a delicious breakfast twist.

Conclusion

This easy Salmon Patties with Homemade Tartar Sauce recipe is a fantastic way to turn simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a quick and nutritious dish, these patties are a must-try.

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you!

FAQ About Salmon Patties with Homemade Tartar Sauce

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh salmon. Simply cook it first, let it cool, then flake it into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well-combined and moist but not too wet. If it’s too dry, add a little more mayonnaise or an extra egg. If it’s too wet, mix in more breadcrumbs.

Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and bake the patties on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning.

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