Lemon-Sesame Salmon Patties

Name: Lemon-Sesame Salmon Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless and boneless; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 egg, lightly beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Veggie Meals | Plant Food

I absolutely love making Lemon-Sesame Salmon Patties because they are light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The zesty lemon combined with nutty sesame elevates the salmon's natural flavor, making it a favorite in my household. Each bite is a delightful explosion of freshness, and they can be enjoyed as a main course or even in a sandwich. I appreciate how quickly they come together, which makes them perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings with friends and family.

Created by

The Chefianfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-03-16T10:46:15.422Z

From the moment I mixed the ingredients together, I knew these Lemon-Sesame Salmon Patties were going to be a hit. The combination of fresh parsley, zesty lemon, and sesame seeds not only added depth to the flavor but also a nice crunch to the texture. I suggest chilling the patties for a few minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better during frying.

After testing various recipes, I found that adding a touch of soy sauce really brings everything together, enhancing the umami taste of the salmon. Whether grilled or pan-fried, these patties are a crowd-pleaser and pair beautifully with a side salad or steamed rice.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright and zesty flavor that awakens the palate
Healthy protein-packed option that's quick to prepare
Versatile as an appetizer, main dish, or sandwich filling

Perfecting the Salmon Texture

To achieve the ideal texture for your salmon patties, it's important to chop the salmon finely rather than using a food processor. I find that chopping by hand allows for a better mix of ingredients while maintaining some salmon texture, which contributes to a more satisfying bite. Aim for pieces around 1/4-inch in size; this works best for evenly cooked patties with a lovely flakiness that contrasts nicely with the crunchy breadcrumbs.

The combination of breadcrumbs not only acts as a binder but also adds a subtle crunch and depth to the patties. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Both alternatives will yield a slightly different flavor profile but still result in crisp, delicious salmon patties that hold together beautifully.

Cooking Success: Frying Techniques

When frying the patties, the oil temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown crust. I recommend heating the oil to medium heat, which typically ranges from 350°F to 375°F. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture in; if it sizzles immediately, you're good to go. Cooking them too quickly on high heat can cause the outsides to burn while leaving the insides undercooked.

Be careful not to overcrowd the frying pan, as this can drop the oil temperature and fuse the patties together. If you're making a larger batch, try cooking them in batches of 3-4 patties at a time. This ensures even cooking and allows the exterior to become perfectly crispy. Remember to let the patties drain on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil and maintain a light finish.

Serving and Storage Ideas

These Lemon-Sesame Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a main dish alongside a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. Alternatively, they shine as an appetizer when paired with a tangy dipping sauce. Consider whipping up a quick yogurt-based sauce with dill and lemon for a refreshing accompaniment that complements the zesty flavors of the patties.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to ensure they maintain their crispness. Freezing is also an option; freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Cook them directly from frozen for an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious patties:

For the Salmon Patties

1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless and boneless
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 egg, lightly beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Lemon-Sesame Salmon Patties:

Prepare the Salmon

Finely chop the salmon fillet into small pieces and place it in a mixing bowl.

Mix Ingredients

Add breadcrumbs, green onions, sesame seeds, lemon juice, soy sauce, egg, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until evenly combined.

Form Patties

Shape the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick.

Chill the Patties

Refrigerate the patties for 10 minutes to help them hold their shape.

Cook the Patties

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Once cooked, serve the patties hot with your choice of side dishes.

Pro Tips

For added zest, serve these patties with a dollop of tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon right before eating. You can also experiment by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.

Flavor Enhancements

While the lemon and sesame create a delightful flavor, you can experiment with additional herbs and spices to customize these patties. Fresh dill or cilantro adds an aromatic touch, while a hint of garlic powder can elevate the savory notes. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the mixture for a flavorful kick.

For an Asian twist, try incorporating a dash of sesame oil in place of some of the frying oil. This will imbue each patty with a deeper sesame flavor that complements the overall dish beautifully. Just remember that sesame oil has a more potent taste, so use it sparingly to prevent overpowering the delicate salmon.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a crowd or want to meal prep for the week, scaling this recipe is a breeze. For every additional pound of salmon, you can easily increase the other ingredients proportionally. Just take care to maintain the balance of breadcrumbs to salmon to binder ratio, which ensures the patties hold together well.

When scaling up, mixing large batches can become cumbersome. I recommend using a large mixing bowl to allow for ample space to combine ingredients thoroughly. Also, plan for more frying time, as you may need to cook in larger batches. Factor in about 5 minutes more per batch if the pan temperature decreases with added patties.

Dietary Considerations

For those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, these patties can easily be adapted to fit your needs by substituting breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or a mixture of ground nuts. Both options will provide the binding effect while keeping the carb count low, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavor of salmon without the added carbohydrates.

If you're cooking for someone with egg allergies, you can omit the egg and replace it with a tablespoon of flaxseed meal combined with three tablespoons of water. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the salmon mix. It works wonders as a binder and ensures your patties stay together, preserving that delightful texture we're aiming for.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

Yes, canned salmon can be used, but make sure to drain it well and flake it before mixing.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze these patties?

Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked patties for up to a month. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.

→ What's the best way to serve these salmon patties?

These patties are delicious served on a bed of greens, in a burger bun, or with a side of dipping sauce.