Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe [2025]

Introduction

If you’ve been searching for the Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe in 2025, you’re in the right place. Bursting with herbs, lemon, and olive oil, these salmon patties are a delicious blend of health and flavor.

Did you know salmon is one of the healthiest fish you can eat, packed with omega-3s, protein, and essential vitamins?

As a chef, I’ve always loved how the Mediterranean diet celebrates freshness and balance. When I first crafted these Mediterranean Salmon Patties, I wanted them to be light yet satisfying, with the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the richness of salmon.

These patties have quickly become one of my go-to recipes—not just because they’re packed with omega-3s and lean protein, but because they bring a taste of the Mediterranean coast to any kitchen. Whether you’re making them for dinner, meal prep, or even sandwiches! This recipe is a keeper!

So, let’s dive into the recipe!

❓ What are Mediterranean Salmon Patties?

» Mediterranean Salmon Patties are savory, golden-brown cakes made from salmon, fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and spices inspired by Mediterranean flavors.

» They’re crisp on the outside, tender inside, and often served with lemon, tzatziki, or hummus. Packed with protein and healthy fats, they make a wholesome main dish or appetizer.

✨ Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Salmon Patties

» High in protein and omega-3s

» Fresh and zesty flavor with herbs and lemon

» Ready in under 30 minutes

» Easy to customize (spicy, cheesy, gluten-free)

» Perfect for salads, wraps, or rice bowls

🍳 Kitchen Equipment Required For This Recipe

» Mixing bowl (for combining ingredients)

» Fork or spatula (for flaking salmon and mixing)

» Knife & cutting board (for chopping herbs, onion, garlic)

» Lemon zester or grater (for fresh lemon zest)

» Measuring cups & spoons (for accuracy)

» Non-stick skillet or frying pan (for pan-frying patties)

» Spatula or fish turner (for flipping patties without breaking)

» Plate lined with paper towels

Optional: Air fryer or baking sheet with parchment paper (for healthier cooking methods)

Ingredients Required For Mediterranean Salmon Patties

» Fresh or canned salmon – 500 g

» Breadcrumbs or panko – ½ cup

» Egg – 1 large (binder)

» Fresh parsley or dill – ¼ cup chopped

» Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

» Onion – ¼ cup finely chopped

» Lemon zest & juice

» Olive oil – 2 tbsp (for frying)

» Seasonings – salt, black pepper, paprika, dried oregano

How to Make Mediterranean Salmon Patties 2025

» Here are the Step-by-Step instructions for the Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe 2025, into a more detailed cooking guide.

Step 1. Prepare the Salmon

♥ If using canned salmon, open the can, drain excess liquid, and remove any large bones or skin (optional, since canned salmon bones are soft and edible). Flake the salmon with a fork.

♥ If using fresh salmon, cook it first (grilled, baked, or pan-seared). Let it rest for a few minutes.

Step 2. Chop and Prep Ingredients

♥ Finely chop onion, garlic, and parsley (or dill) so they blend smoothly into the patties without overpowering any bite.

♥ Zest one whole lemon and set aside the zest; squeeze 1 tablespoon of juice for freshness.

Step 3. Mix the Patty Base

♥ In a large mixing bowl, add flaked salmon, breadcrumbs (or panko), chopped herbs, onion, garlic, lemon zest, and seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, oregano).

♥ Crack one egg to act as a binder.

♥ Gently mix using a fork or your hands. Do not overmix, as this can make the patties dense instead of tender.

Step 4. Shape the Patties

♥ With clean hands, scoop a handful of the mixture (about ⅓ cup) and shape it into a round patty.

♥ Flatten slightly so it cooks evenly. Repeat until you have about 6 patties.

♥ For best results, chill patties in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up and prevents crumbling.

Step 5. Cook the Patties

♥ Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.

♥ Place patties in the skillet without overcrowding (cook in batches if needed).

♥ Fry each side for 3–4 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. The inside should remain moist and tender.

Step 6. Serve Hot & Fresh

♥ Transfer patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

♥ Serve warm with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.

⚡ Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties

♥ Use a non-stick skillet to avoid breaking.

♥ Crisp one side perfectly first, and then flip it over to the other side. Don’t flip again and again.

♥ For a lighter option, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.

Tips & Tricks from the Chef 👨‍🍳

» Cool the patties before cooking to hold the shape perfectly

» Don’t overmix the mixture (keeps them tender)

» For extra crunch, coat patties in panko before frying

» Bake or air-fry for a lighter version

Can I freeze Mediterranean salmon patties?

Yes! They last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking for the best texture.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Salmon Patties

Pairing your Mediterranean Salmon Patties with the right sides enhances their fresh, zesty flavors. Here are some delicious options:

» Tzatziki or hummus with pita bread

» Fresh Greek salad or cucumber yogurt salad

» Lemon orzo, couscous pilaf, or garlic butter rice

» Roasted Mediterranean veggies

» Dips like baba ganoush or olive tapenade

✨ Chef’s Tip: Keep the balance! Since salmon patties are rich and savory, pair them with fresh salads, tangy sauces, or lightly spiced grains for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredient Substitutes for Mediterranean Salmon Patties

Here’s a handy Ingredient Substitutes Guide for your Mediterranean Salmon Patties:

» Salmon → Canned tuna, canned mackerel, or cooked white fish (like cod or tilapia).

» Breadcrumbs → Crushed crackers, oat flour, almond flour, or panko for extra crunch.

» Egg (binder) → Flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water), chia seed egg, or mashed potato.

» Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, cilantro) → Dried herbs (use ⅓ of the fresh amount) or substitute with basil, mint, or green onions.

» Onion → Shallots, green onions, or even grated zucchini for a lighter flavor.

» Garlic → Garlic powder (½ tsp = 1 clove) or roasted garlic paste.

» Lemon juice/zest → Lime juice, orange zest, or a splash of vinegar.

» Olive oil (for cooking) → Avocado oil, sunflower oil, or butter for richness.

» Greek yogurt (for dips) → Sour cream.

✨ Chef’s Tip: Always keep the balance of moisture (egg, yogurt, lemon) and texture (breadcrumbs, fish, herbs) so your patties hold shape without drying out.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, 1 patty)

» Calories: ~180

» Protein: 15g

» Carbs: 6g

» Fat: 10g

» Rich in Omega-3, Vitamin D, and Selenium

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: You can store it in an air-tight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Use a skillet or oven for crispiness (avoid microwaving).

Alternate Recipes You Can Try

Here’s a list of alternate recipes you can try if you enjoy Mediterranean Salmon Patties – all flavorful, healthy, and with a Mediterranean twist:

» Mediterranean Tuna Patties – Similar to salmon patties but made with tuna, herbs, and lemon for a lighter, budget-friendly option.

» Greek Chickpea Patties (Falafel-Style) – A vegetarian alternative packed with protein, garlic, and fresh parsley, served with tzatziki or tahini.

» Zucchini Fritters with Feta – Crispy veggie patties blended with crumbled feta, dill, and a hint of garlic – perfect for summer meals.

» Mediterranean Cod Cakes – Flaky cod mixed with capers, lemon zest, and breadcrumbs for a light seafood patty.

» Lentil & Herb Patties – Plant-based, high-protein patties seasoned with cumin, coriander, and parsley for a hearty meatless dish.

» Grilled Eggplant Patties – Smoky and soft, blended with breadcrumbs and Mediterranean spices for a unique veggie-based patty.

» Mediterranean Quinoa Patties – Nutritious and gluten-free, combining quinoa, spinach, and feta for a wholesome vegetarian meal.

» Shrimp & Garlic Patties – A seafood twist using minced shrimp, garlic, parsley, and olive oil for a lighter bite.

» Spinach & Feta Patties – Inspired by spanakopita flavors, these patties combine spinach, onions, and tangy feta cheese.

» Mediterranean Black Bean Patties – A hearty vegetarian option seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin, and olive oil.

Antonio Morelli

Mediterranean Salmon Patties

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these Mediterranean Salmon Patties are packed with herbs, spices, and fresh salmon. A quick, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for lunch or dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Resting Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 37 minutes mins

Servings: 4 8 patties

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: Greek-inspired, Mediterranean

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb (450 g) cooked or canned salmon, flaked
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill or cilantro
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Fork or potato masher (for salmon)
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Baking sheet (optional for baked version)

Method

 

1. First, take a large mixing bowl & combine the following ingredients: Salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, parsley, dill, lemon juice and spices. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Shape mixture into small patties (about 8).
3. Chill the patties for at least 10 minutes to settle.
4. Next you need to heat olive oil in pan on a medium flame.
5. Now, Fry the patties perfectly for at least 5 minutes until you get golden brownish & crispy patties.
6. Serve warm with tzatziki, hummus, or a fresh Greek salad.

Notes

• Use canned salmon for a quick, budget-friendly version.
• Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour for gluten-free patties.
• For baking: cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping once.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best canned salmon?

Wild-caught canned salmon is the healthiest and most flavorful choice. Look for sustainably sourced brands packed in water instead of oil, with bones and skin removed for easy mixing.

What holds salmon patties together?

Eggs and breadcrumbs are the main binders that hold salmon patties together. They give structure while preventing crumbling, and a short chill in the fridge before cooking helps firm them up.

What seasoning is good for salmon patties?

Mediterranean salmon patties taste great with garlic, paprika, parsley, dill, lemon zest, and feta. A touch of cumin or oregano also adds depth while balancing the salmon’s natural richness.

Are Mediterranean salmon patties kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love their mild flavor and crispy outside. Serve with a simple dip like ketchup, yogurt sauce, or ranch to make them even more appealing.

How do I keep my salmon patties from falling apart?

To prevent salmon patties from falling apart, use enough binder (eggs, breadcrumbs, or oat flour). Mix gently, shape firmly, and refrigerate patties for 10–15 minutes before frying or baking.

Can I make Mediterranean salmon patties gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, gluten-free oats, or crushed rice crackers. They still turn out crispy on the outside while keeping a soft, flavorful center.

My Final Thoughts

In conclusion, these Mediterranean Salmon Patties are a flavorful, healthy twist on classic salmon cakes. I love enjoying them with a fresh Greek salad and a dollop of tzatziki—it feels like a trip to the Mediterranean, right at home. You can also try my crispy bang bang salmon bites recipe

Give them a try for your next family meal, and I guarantee they’ll become a weeknight favorite! 🌿🐟

Trust me—once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen too. 🌿🐟