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Mediterranean Salmon Patties Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Mediterranean Salmon Patties

I recently made these Mediterranean salmon patties, and honestly, they’ve become one of my favorite quick meals. The combination of fresh herbs, tender salmon, and bright Mediterranean flavors made every bite feel special. I love how simple they are, yet they taste like something you’d order at a cozy seaside café.
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked salmon fresh or canned, drained well – flaky salmon works best for texture
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – helps bind the patties; use whole wheat for extra nutrition
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped – adds a mild, slightly sweet crunch
  • 2 cloves garlic minced – enhances the savory Mediterranean flavor
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped – brings freshness and color
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill – gives a classic Mediterranean herb flavor
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled – adds a tangy, creamy element
  • 1 large egg – acts as a binder to hold everything together
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the overall taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest – boosts citrus aroma
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds earthy Mediterranean depth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – balance and enhance flavors
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – for frying and achieving a golden crust

Method
 

  1. Start by placing the cooked or canned salmon in a large bowl and flaking it with a fork. Make sure there are no large chunks so the patties hold together well. Add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, herbs, and feta cheese, then mix gently.
  2. Crack the egg into the mixture and pour in lemon juice along with zest. Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper, then stir everything until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape into patties.
  3. Take small portions of the mixture and form them into round, flat patties using your hands. Keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate it for 10–15 minutes before shaping.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side. Flip carefully once they develop a golden crust to avoid breaking.
  5. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels. Let them rest for a couple of minutes to absorb excess oil. This helps maintain their crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Notes

  • I always use fresh herbs instead of dried ones when possible—they really enhance the flavor
  • Chilling the mixture before cooking helps the patties stay firm and not fall apart
  • I avoid overmixing, as it can make the patties dense instead of light
  • Cooking on medium heat ensures a crispy crust without burning
  • I sometimes add a little extra lemon zest for a brighter, fresher taste