Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick, high-protein, budget-friendly, meal-prep friendly, and filled with bright flavors thanks to herbs, lemon, and garlic. Salmon provides heart-healthy fats, while Mediterranean seasonings make every bite refreshing and satisfying.
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Mediterranean Salmon Patties: A Fresh, Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 6 patties
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Flavor-packed salmon patties infused with Mediterranean spices, herbs, and lemon—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfect for a healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh or canned salmon, flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- Optional serving: Tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, dill, garlic, egg, lemon juice, zest, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Form mixture into 6–8 patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with tzatziki and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use canned salmon for convenience—just drain well.
- For a crispier exterior, chill patties for 15 minutes before frying.
- Bake instead at 400°F for 12–15 minutes for a lighter version.
- Serve in pita bread for a Mediterranean-style sandwich.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Canned or cooked fresh salmon
Provides rich, flaky protein and forms the base of the patties.
Egg
Helps bind the mixture so the patties hold together while cooking.
Almond flour or breadcrumbs
Adds structure and absorbs moisture for perfectly formed patties.
Red onion or green onion
Offers sharp, aromatic flavor that pairs well with salmon.
Garlic
Brings savory depth and a classic Mediterranean touch.
Fresh parsley
Adds brightness, freshness, and herbal flavor.
Dill or oregano
Lends Mediterranean fragrance and earthy notes.
Lemon zest and juice
Brightens the patties and balances the richness of the salmon.
Salt and black pepper
Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
Olive oil
Used for pan-searing the patties to golden perfection.
Directions
Begin by preparing the salmon. If using canned salmon, drain well and flake it with a fork. In a mixing bowl, combine salmon, egg, almond flour or breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill or oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until the mixture just holds together—add more almond flour if it seems too wet.
Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties carefully and cook until golden brown on one side, then flip and cook until crisp and fully heated through. Remove from the skillet and let rest briefly. Serve warm with lemon wedges, yogurt sauce, or a fresh salad.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: about 22 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store patties in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispness. They can also be frozen—cool completely, freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or oven.
Variations and Customizations
Feta-Stuffed Salmon Patties
Fold in crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy surprise.
Mediterranean Veggie Blend
Add grated zucchini or chopped spinach for extra nutrition.
Spicy Harissa Patties
Mix in a spoonful of harissa for heat and smokiness.
Lemon-Herb Patties
Increase lemon zest and add fresh basil for brightness.
Gluten-Free Version
Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Tahini-Drizzled Patties
Serve with a tahini-lemon sauce for nutty depth.
Pita Pocket Patties
Stuff patties into warm pita with cucumbers, tomatoes, and tzatziki.
Olive & Capers Twist
Add chopped olives or capers for briny Mediterranean punch.
Baked Salmon Patties
Bake at 400°F until crisp for a lighter preparation.
Greek Yogurt Blend
Add a spoonful of yogurt to keep the patties extra moist.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, cooked and flaked fresh salmon works perfectly.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Add more almond flour or breadcrumbs and chill briefly before cooking.
Can I bake them?
Yes, baking produces a lighter but still delicious result.
Are these patties gluten-free?
They are if made with almond flour.
What sauce pairs well with them?
Tzatziki, lemon yogurt, or garlic aioli work beautifully.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes, shape the patties and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I air-fry them?
Yes—air fry at 375°F until golden, flipping halfway.
Are they kid-friendly?
Yes, especially if you reduce strong herbs or onion.
Can I use other fish?
Tuna or cod also work, though flavor will differ.
Can I add cheese inside?
Yes, feta or mozzarella makes a delicious center.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Salmon Patties offer a fresh, vibrant twist on a classic seafood favorite. With bright herbs, zesty lemon, and savory salmon, they’re flavorful, nutritious, and easy enough for any weeknight meal. Whether served inside pita, over salad, or on their own with a creamy sauce, these patties deliver balanced Mediterranean comfort in every bite.
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