Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce

Introduction

Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce is a classic comfort food recipe that combines crispy golden salmon cakes with a refreshing, creamy dill sauce. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making it equally suitable for a cozy family dinner or a light, elegant meal.

These patties are versatile—you can make them with fresh salmon or canned salmon, and they pair beautifully with a zesty dill sauce that cuts through the richness with a burst of freshness. This recipe highlights salmon’s natural flavor while giving it a satisfying, crispy crust.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s wholesome, budget-friendly, and incredibly flavorful. The salmon patties are tender inside, crunchy on the outside, and the dill sauce adds brightness that makes every bite feel balanced.

Another reason I enjoy this dish is its adaptability—it works just as well for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. You can serve the patties on their own, with a salad, or tucked into a sandwich. The dill sauce, with its tangy yogurt or sour cream base, makes it taste fresh and light without being heavy.

It’s also a fantastic way to use pantry staples (like canned salmon) while still creating a dish that feels special and satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because:

• It’s healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and omega-3s from salmon.
• It’s quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• It’s versatile: Works for weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or appetizers.
• It’s crowd-pleasing: Even those who don’t usually love fish often enjoy these crispy patties.

Plus, the homemade dill sauce elevates the dish from simple to restaurant-worthy.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 (makes 8 patties)
• Calories per Serving (with sauce): ~350–380 kcal

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American / European-inspired
• Course: Main Course / Dinner / Lunch

Ingredients

For the Salmon Patties

• 14 oz canned salmon (or 2 cups cooked fresh salmon, flaked)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Dill Sauce

• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, parsley, mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Shape into patties.
3. Pan-fry until golden brown.
4. Whisk together ingredients for dill sauce.
5. Serve patties warm with dill sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the salmon mixture

• Drain salmon if using canned.
• In a large bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Add beaten eggs and mix until well combined.

Step 2: Form the patties

• Shape mixture into 8 equal-sized patties.
• Place on a tray or plate and let them rest for 5 minutes (helps them hold together).

Step 3: Cook the patties

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make the dill sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or yogurt), mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Serve

• Place patties on a serving plate and drizzle with dill sauce or serve on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve patties with a dollop of dill sauce and lemon wedges.
• Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.
• Use as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or sliders.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Make sure salmon is well-drained if using canned to avoid soggy patties.
• Chill patties in the fridge for 10 minutes before frying if they feel too soft.
• For extra crunch, coat patties lightly in panko before frying.
• Use fresh dill for the best flavor in the sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Salmon Patties: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Herb Lovers: Mix in fresh chives, basil, or cilantro along with parsley.
• Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour.
• Creamy Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the salmon mixture.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer (uncooked): Shape patties, place on a tray, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen.
• Freezer (cooked): Freeze patties for up to 1 month. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
• Dill Sauce: Best made fresh, but can be refrigerated for 2 days.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Small whisk (for sauce)

Conclusion

Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce is a delicious, versatile recipe that’s both comforting and fresh. With crispy golden edges, tender salmon inside, and a refreshing dill sauce on top, it’s a dish that feels satisfying without being heavy. It’s quick enough for weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining, and flexible enough to suit different tastes and diets.