Hey there, friend! Today, I can’t wait to share one of my absolute favorite recipes with you: Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties. Whenever I make these lovely little guys, I’m transported back to a sun-drenched summer picnic at my auntie’s garden, where laughter filled the air and the delicious aroma of freshly cooked seafood mingled with the scent of blooming flowers. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, these patties are a go-to in my kitchen for busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet fancy enough to feel like a treat. Plus, they’re ready in just 15 minutes! Can you believe it?

So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this scrumptious dish together. Not only are these salmon patties incredibly delicious, but they’re also super easy to whip up. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
• Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples.
• Flavorful and comforting with a delightful crunch from sesame seeds.
• Packed with nutrients thanks to the salmon and fresh herbs.
• Versatile; serve them with rice, on a salad, or in a sandwich!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful sesame-crusted salmon patties:

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillet (skin removed, you can also use canned salmon for convenience)
  Fresh is best, but canned works if you’re in a pinch!
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular, your choice)
  Panko gives a lighter texture, while regular breadcrumbs can be denser.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Don’t skip this; it adds a yummy savory depth!
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  Substitute with dill or green onions for a different twist.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  This adds a slight tang that brightens the dish.
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
  Binding magic; it helps hold everything together.
• ¼ cup sesame seeds
  For that delicious crunch and nutty flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste
  Simple yet crucial!
• Cooking oil for frying (olive oil or sesame oil works well)
  Can also use avocado oil; just ensure it can withstand heat!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Let’s do this, one fun step at a time!

1. Prepare the salmon: If using fresh salmon, chop it into chunks and place it in a food processor. Pulse until it’s finely chopped but still a bit chunky—no one wants a puree! If using canned salmon, drain it well and flake it apart with a fork.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Add the beaten egg and combine everything until it’s just mixed. (Careful not to overmix; we want fluffy patties!)
3. Form the patties: Take a handful of mixture and shape it into a patty about 1 inch thick. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped. You should get about 6–8 patties, depending on the size you prefer.
4. Coat with sesame seeds: Spread the sesame seeds out on a plate and gently press each patty into the seeds until they’re evenly coated.
5. Heat the oil: In a pan over medium heat, add a couple of tablespoons of oil. Test the heat by dropping in a few sesame seeds; if they sizzle, you’re ready to fry!
6. Cook the patties: Place the patties in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. (Don’t be tempted to flip them too soon; give them time to form that perfect crust!).
7. Drain and serve: Once cooked, transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve hot!

Pro Tips & Variations

Let’s sprinkle in a little creativity, shall we?

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for a little kick!
• Change your bread: If breadcrumbs aren’t your thing, use crushed nuts for a gluten-free alternative that’ll lend a nice crunch.
• Dip it good: Try serving these patty delights with a zesty lemon-dill yogurt sauce or a sesame ginger dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
• Fresh flavors: Experiment with different herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint to keep things fresh and exciting!

Serving Suggestions

These sesame-crusted salmon patties are super versatile, which is one of the reasons I adore them! I like to serve them on a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice. They also shine as a fantastic filling for a crusty baguette with some fresh vegetables and a spread of creamy avocado. They’re equally delicious served alongside fragrant jasmine rice or even tucked into a warm pita with tzatziki sauce and crunchy lettuce. And let’s not forget a cozy side of sweet potato fries or a hearty bean salad!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! Let the patties cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them—just layer parchment paper between patties in an airtight container, and they’ll last for about a month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F until heated through—maybe add a few more sesame seeds for that freshly fried experience!

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon for these patties?

Absolutely! Canned salmon is a great option when you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain it well and flake it apart.

How can I make these patties gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts, as mentioned in the variations. Easy peasy!

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the patties on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The stovetop is your best bet! Just pop them in a skillet with a touch of oil to crisp them up again. You could also use the oven if you prefer to keep them crispy.

Can I add vegetables to the salmon mixture?

Of course! Finely diced bell peppers, shredded zucchini, or even finely chopped spinach can work wonders for adding extra nutrition and bulk to your patties.

Conclusion

And there you have it—delicious, crispy Sesame Crusted Salmon Patties ready to impress your family and friends (and yourself!). I hope you’ll give this recipe a try. It’s one of those feel-good meals that satisfies your cravings and warms your heart all at once. Please comment below to let me know how yours turn out, or share your own personal twists! I can’t wait to hear about your culinary adventures.