These Air-Fryer Salmon Patties are a delightful way to turn canned or leftover salmon into a delicious meal.
I grew up eating salmon and tuna croquettes, which were somewhat similar to these air-fryer salmon patties. The big difference is that we didn’t have air fryers back then, so we deep-fried them until they were golden and crisp. Yes, they were absolutely delicious, but looking back, all that oil added a lot of unnecessary fat and calories. These days, thanks to my handy air fryer, I can make salmon patties that are just as tasty without all the extra grease. They’re healthier, and that’s always a win in my book!
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these patties are simple and easy to make yet packed with flavor. They have the tang of Dijon mustard complemented by a dash of lemon and some fresh parsley. Serve them alongside a crisp, refreshing salad, or build the ultimate sandwich: grab a soft roll or bun, layer on lettuce, tomato, pickle slices, and red onion, and finish it off with your favorite sauce.
Are Air-Fryer Salmon Patties Healthy?
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial to cardiovascular health. Air-fryer salmon patties are low in carbohydrates but high in protein. Cooking the patties in the air fryer reduces the amount of calories and fat, since they’re not deep-fried. Using an avocado or olive oil cooking spray ups the healthy fats. To lower the fat content even more, switch to a reduced-fat mayonnaise. You can also omit the salt, especially if your seafood seasoning contains it. Gluten-free panko crumbs, almond flour, or other gluten-free breadcrumbs are suitable replacements for the panko.
Tasty Tweaks
Though the beauty of these patties also lies in their simplicity, that shouldn’t stop you from experimenting with the recipe. For example, I love adding more freshly chopped herbs such as chives, chervil, and dill. Not only does this add extra color to the patties, but it also infuses them with incredible aroma. If you like things spicy, go ahead and add a chopped red chili or a dash of cayenne pepper. If it’s subtle warmth you’re after, try a touch of smoked paprika powder. And for even more zingy goodness, don’t add just the juice of a lemon, but the grated zest, too. Love Asian-inspired flavors? Omit the Dijon mustard and lemon juice, and instead, mix in some chopped scallions, soy sauce, chopped red chili, grated ginger, and lime juice/zest.
How do I store leftovers?
Once your patties cool to room temperature, place them in Ziploc bags or airtight containers. Refrigerate them for up to 4 days or transfer them to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. You can reheat them from frozen in the air fryer or oven.
Serving Suggestions
I like to serve these air-fryer salmon patties with a variety of sauces, since everyone has different tastes. Some of my favorites are Tartar Sauce (the original), Crab Cake Sauce (equally as good on salmon patties), Horseradish Sauce (provides a nice kick), Remoulade Sauce (a classic), Dill Sauce (dill and salmon are perfect together), and this traditional Cocktail Sauce Recipe.
One of my favorite mealtime combinations is this dish with a salad. The patties cook for 15 minutes, which is enough time to prepare a delightfully fresh Strawberry-Walnut Salad or a Blue Cheese Salad.
Ingredients
- 14.75 ounces canned flaked salmon drained
- 1 large egg
- 5 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
- Kosher salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
- Preferred sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Mix together the drained salmon, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, parsley, seafood seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
- If the mixture is dry, add a little more mayonnaise to bring it together. If it is too wet, add some more breadcrumbs. Split the mixture into six equal pieces and shape each piece into 1-inch thick patties.
- Set the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the salmon patties in a single layer in the basket and apply cooking spray to the tops.
- Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. Serve with preferred dipping sauce.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
There is so much salt in the canned salmon. Do not add any. You can’t remove salt but you can always add more.
Hi Stella. Agreed it’s a good idea to give it a quick taste before adding any extra salt. You can always sprinkle in a little more if needed.
Thank you for sharing this recipe
You are very welcome Pablo 😊