Savory Homemade Chef John’s Fresh Salmon Cakes Recipe

Crafting delectable salmon cakes brings pure culinary joy to home cooking enthusiasts.

Flaky fish mixed with herbs creates a delightful meal everyone loves.

Pantry staples transform into an elegant dish that impresses guests instantly.

Simple ingredients combine seamlessly for a restaurant-quality experience you can master.

Rich flavors burst through each perfectly seasoned bite of these incredible cakes.

Crispy exterior and tender interior make this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.

Dive right in and savor every delicious moment of your seafood adventure.

Why Chef John’s Salmon Cakes Are Loved

• Bake with Ease: No deep-frying required, these apple fritters are baked to golden perfection, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions.
• Customize for All: Swap ingredients or adjust spices to suit different dietary needs and taste preferences, creating a versatile treat everyone can enjoy.
• Quick Family Delight: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for weekend baking with kids or a spontaneous sweet treat.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Warm, soft fritters with chunks of sweet apples and a vanilla glaze provide a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients for Chef John’s Fresh Salmon Cakes

• Salmon: Fresh fillet that provides the primary protein and base for the salmon cakes.

• Celery, Green Onions, Parsley: Chopped vegetables and herbs that add crunch, freshness, and vibrant flavor to the salmon mixture.

• Egg: Helps bind the salmon cakes together and provides structure.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a light, crispy texture and helps hold the patties together.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the salmon cakes.
• Paprika, Cayenne: Spices that contribute warmth and a subtle hint of heat to the recipe.
• Mustard, Lemon Juice: Adds tanginess and brightness to complement the salmon.

• Olive Oil: Used for pan-frying the salmon cakes to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

• Lemon Wedges: Optional garnish for squeezing over the salmon cakes for extra citrus flavor.

How to Make Chef John’s Salmon Cakes

Step 1: Prepare Salmon

Bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until fully cooked. Allow the salmon to cool down completely, then gently break it into small flakes using a fork.

Step 2: Mix Salmon Cake Ingredients

• Finely chopped celery
• Sliced green onions
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Beaten egg
• Dijon mustard
• Fresh lemon juice
• Breadcrumbs

Thoroughly mix all ingredients until well combined.

Step 3: Shape Salmon Patties

Use your hands to carefully form the mixture into small, compact patties.

Make sure they hold together well and are evenly sized.

Step 4: Pan-Fry Salmon Cakes

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place the salmon patties into the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the crispy salmon cakes to a serving plate.

Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and serve with your preferred dipping sauce. These salmon cakes are perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Helpful Notes for Chef John’s Salmon Cakes

• Ensure salmon is completely cooled before flaking to prevent moisture buildup in the mixture.
• Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor and vibrant taste in salmon cakes.
• Pat salmon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and help patties hold together better.
• Choose panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness and lighter texture when frying.
• Refrigerate formed patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them maintain shape during pan-frying.

Flavor Twists for Chef John’s Salmon Cakes

• Spicy Cajun Salmon Cakes: Add extra cayenne, diced bell peppers, and Cajun seasoning for a bold, zesty flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Salmon Cakes: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Asian-Inspired Salmon Cakes: Incorporate ginger, soy sauce, chopped cilantro, and green onions for an Asian fusion touch.
• Smoky Chipotle Salmon Cakes: Blend in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and smoked paprika for a rich, smoky kick.

Best Ways to Serve Chef John’s Salmon Cakes

• Coastal Brunch Delight: Serve these golden salmon cakes atop a bed of mixed greens with a zesty lemon-dill vinaigrette, creating a light and refreshing meal perfect for weekend mornings.
• Mediterranean Platter Presentation: Arrange salmon cakes around creamy tzatziki, roasted red pepper hummus, and warm pita bread, offering a vibrant and flavor-packed sharing experience that transports diners to seaside Mediterranean restaurants.
• Gourmet Sandwich Creation: Nestle the crispy salmon cakes between toasted brioche buns, layer with fresh arugula, sliced avocado, and a spicy remoulade sauce for an elevated lunch option that feels both casual and sophisticated.

How to Store Chef John’s Salmon Cakes Properly

• Store salmon cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap individual salmon cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed salmon cakes in a preheated oven at 350F for 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from becoming soggy and maintain their crispy exterior.
• Make the salmon cake mixture in advance and store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before forming and cooking the patties. This allows flavors to meld and makes meal preparation faster.

FAQs

• Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon?

Yes, you can substitute fresh salmon with canned salmon. Drain the canned salmon well and remove any bones before mixing with other ingredients.

• How do I prevent the salmon cakes from falling apart during cooking?

Make sure to bind the mixture well with egg and breadcrumbs, and refrigerate the patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.

• Is it possible to make these salmon cakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to create a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Chef John’s Fresh Salmon Cakes Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Salmon cakes from chef John deliver a delightful coastal culinary experience with crispy exterior and tender interior. Packed with rich flavors and simple ingredients, these cakes promise a quick and satisfying meal for ocean-inspired dinner enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (454 g) salmon fillet, skin removed
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) minced celery
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsps chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

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Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350°F (175°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.
2. Arrange salmon on baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes until fish flakes easily, then allow to cool completely.
3. Gently combine flaked salmon with finely chopped celery, green onions, fresh parsley, seasonings, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and breadcrumbs in a mixing bowl.
4. Delicately shape mixture into compact, uniform patties approximately 2-3 inches in diameter.
5. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6. Carefully place salmon cakes into hot skillet, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until exterior develops a crispy, golden-brown crust.
7. Transfer cooked salmon cakes to serving plate and garnish with fresh lemon wedges or accompany with preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

• Swap out breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
• Use fresh wild-caught salmon for a richer flavor and healthier omega-3 profile compared to farm-raised fish.
• Pat salmon dry before baking to ensure crispy exterior and prevent excess moisture in the cakes, which can make them fall apart during cooking.
• Consider adding capers or diced red bell peppers for extra texture and bright flavor complexity that complements the salmon’s richness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 230 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 370 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 13 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg