Salmon cakes are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even a snack. They are versatile, flavorful, and relatively simple to prepare. In this easy recipe guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create delicious salmon cakes, as well as a variation that includes crab for an extra special twist.

Ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• For Salmon Cakes:1 lb fresh salmon fillets or canned salmon1/2 cup breadcrumbs1/4 cup finely chopped onion1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper2 tbsp mayonnaise1 tbsp Dijon mustard1 tbsp lemon juice1 large egg1 tsp garlic powder1 tsp paprikaSalt and pepper to taste2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• For Salmon and Crab Cakes:1/2 lb fresh crab meatAdd the crab meat to the above salmon cake ingredients

Preparing the Salmon

Fresh Salmon

If you’re using fresh salmon fillets, follow these steps to prepare them:

1. Cook the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
2. Cool and Flake: Allow the salmon to cool slightly, then flake it into small pieces with a fork.

Canned Salmon

Using canned salmon is a time-saver and equally delicious:

1. Drain and Flake: Drain the canned salmon and flake it into small pieces with a fork, removing any large bones.

Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon (and crab meat if you’re making the salmon and crab cakes) with the other ingredients:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Well: Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold together. If it’s too dry, add a little more mayonnaise. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Shaping the Cakes

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the salmon cakes:

1. Form Patties: Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a patty about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
2. Chill: Place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to cook.

Cooking the Salmon Cakes

You can cook the salmon cakes either by frying or baking, depending on your preference.

Frying Method

1. Heat Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Patties: Add the salmon cakes to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain: Transfer the cooked salmon cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Baking Method

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange Patties: Place the salmon cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
3. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cakes are golden brown and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Salmon cakes are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With a Salad: Serve the salmon cakes on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
• As a Sandwich: Place the salmon cakes on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli.
• With a Side Dish: Pair the salmon cakes with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the salmon cakes with a dipping sauce like remoulade or cocktail sauce for a delicious appetizer.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later:

1. Refrigerate: Place the cooked salmon cakes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
2. Freeze: For longer storage, wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheat: To reheat, place the salmon cakes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and crab meat yield the best flavor and texture.
• Chill the Patties: Chilling the patties before cooking helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Add more spices or herbs for extra flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, cook the salmon cakes in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Conclusion

Salmon cakes are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you stick to the classic salmon cakes or add crab meat for a luxurious twist, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon cakes ready to serve in no time.

Happy cooking!