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Chef Johns Fresh Salmon Cakes Recipe

Chef John’s Fresh Salmon Cakes Recipe


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4.7 from 8 reviews

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

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.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

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