Grandma’s Famous Salmon Cakes are a timeless dish that combines pantry staples with a few fresh ingredients to create a flavorful meal. These salmon cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14.75 ounces) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, onion, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 6-8 patties, depending on your preferred size.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the Salmon Cakes: Once the oil is hot, place the salmon cakes in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the salmon cakes from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Tartar Sauce: Serve the salmon cakes with a dollop of tartar sauce for a classic pairing.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the salmon cakes.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting side dish.
Why This Recipe Works
- Family Favorite: This is a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and it’s loved by all ages.
- Quick and Easy: Using canned salmon keeps the prep time short, and you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: These salmon cakes can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even in a sandwich.
Tips for Success
- Drain the Salmon Well: Make sure to drain the canned salmon well to avoid a soggy mixture.
- Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to keep the patties from falling apart.
- Make It Your Own: You can add diced bell peppers, corn, or even swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed crackers for a different flavor and texture.