Healthy Salmon Cake
Salmon cakes offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the rich, savory taste of salmon in a light, crispy form. These cakes are a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, blending ease of preparation with health benefits. They are not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients, making them a great addition to any balanced diet.
Why Opt for Healthy Salmon Cakes?
Salmon is renowned for its health benefits, being an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. It’s also packed with high-quality protein, aiding in muscle repair and growth. When combined with fresh ingredients like herbs, spices, and a touch of citrus, these salmon cakes become a flavorful and nutritious dish that supports overall well-being.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make these salmon cakes both healthy and flavorful, gather the following ingredients:
- Salmon: You can use either fresh or canned salmon. If you go with canned, choose wild-caught varieties with minimal added salt.
- Breadcrumbs: Whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs add texture while keeping the dish wholesome.
- Eggs: They help bind the cakes together and add extra protein.
- Greek Yogurt: This is a healthier substitute for mayonnaise, offering creaminess and additional protein.
- Onions and Garlic: These ingredients provide a burst of flavor that complements the salmon.
- Fresh Herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives add a fresh taste and vibrant color.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: They brighten up the cakes with a tangy flavor.
- Seasonings: Basic salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or cayenne can add a subtle kick.
How to Make Healthy Salmon Cakes
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Prepare the Salmon: If you’re using fresh salmon, cook it until it flakes easily with a fork—either by baking or steaming. Let it cool, then flake it into small pieces. If using canned salmon, simply drain it and remove any skin or bones.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, Greek yogurt, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, fresh herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and seasonings. Stir until everything is well mixed.
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Shape the Cakes: Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about the size of your palm. Press them firmly so they hold together during cooking.
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Cook the Salmon Cakes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon cakes in the skillet, giving them some space. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil. Serve them hot with a dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to get creative with your salmon cakes:
- Add Vegetables: Mix in grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free options to cater to dietary needs.
- Spice Things Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of sriracha, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the mix.
Perfect Pairings
These salmon cakes are versatile and pair well with many sides. Try serving them with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette for a light meal. They also complement roasted sweet potatoes or a hearty quinoa pilaf for a more filling option. For an additional dose of healthy fats, consider a side of avocado salsa.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Salmon cakes are ideal for meal prepping. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well—place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a skillet or oven when ready to enjoy.
Nutritional Highlights
Each salmon cake is packed with health benefits. The omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon support heart health and reduce inflammation, while the high protein content helps keep you full and satisfied. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces fat and adds probiotics, promoting gut health.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
These healthy salmon cakes combine great taste with nutritional benefits. They’re easy to prepare, customizable, and suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a nutritious lunch, or a brunch addition, these cakes are sure to please. Plus, they’re a great way to incorporate more fish into your diet, especially if seafood isn’t usually your go-to.
Healthy Salmon Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery; cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in parsley; remove from the heat.
Place salmon in a medium bowl. Flake apart with a fork; remove any bones and skin. Add egg and mustard; mix well. Add the onion mixture, breadcrumbs and pepper; mix well. Shape the mixture into 8 patties, about 2 1/2 inches wide.
Heat remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in the pan over medium heat. Add 4 patties and cook until the undersides are golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a wide spatula, turn them over onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining patties.
Bake the salmon cakes until golden on top and heated through, 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare Creamy Dill Sauce. Serve salmon cakes with sauce and lemon wedges.
4 servings
Per patty
- Amount per serving
- Calories350
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13.7g18%
- Total Carbohydrate 25.8g10%
- Dietary Fiber 5.7g21%
- Total Sugars 5g
- Protein 34.4g
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Healthy Salmon Cake is one of many healthy recipe ideas that you can find on our recipe page.
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Ingredients
Directions
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery; cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in parsley; remove from the heat.
Place salmon in a medium bowl. Flake apart with a fork; remove any bones and skin. Add egg and mustard; mix well. Add the onion mixture, breadcrumbs and pepper; mix well. Shape the mixture into 8 patties, about 2 1/2 inches wide.
Heat remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in the pan over medium heat. Add 4 patties and cook until the undersides are golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a wide spatula, turn them over onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining patties.
Bake the salmon cakes until golden on top and heated through, 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare Creamy Dill Sauce. Serve salmon cakes with sauce and lemon wedges.
