Description
Chef John’s Fresh Salmon Cakes are a mouthwatering twist on classic seafood patties, made with fresh wild salmon, aromatic vegetables, and bold seasonings. Pan-fried to golden perfection, they offer a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. Easy to prepare and packed with savory flavors, these salmon cakes are perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup minced onion
- 2 tablespoons minced red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons minced celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1¼ pounds fresh wild salmon, coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 1 pinch seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay)
- 1 tablespoon panko breadcrumbs, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, or as needed
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Season with salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens (about 5 minutes). Add capers and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare Salmon Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chopped salmon, cooled vegetable mixture, mayonnaise, ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, seafood seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape into 1-inch thick patties and coat each side with the remaining 1 tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from skillet, drain on paper towels, and serve warm with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicier flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can be added for extra freshness.
- Baked Option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier alternative.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1-2 hours (for chilling)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
