Air-Fried Salmon Patties: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Yes, you can cook salmon patties in an air fryer! This method is a great way to cut down on oil while still achieving a crispy texture and tender interior. The patties can be made with either fresh or canned salmon, and are seasoned with ingredients like garlic, dill, Old Bay seasoning, and breadcrumbs. The air fryer basket should be sprayed with oil or lined with parchment paper before adding the patties, which are then cooked for around 10 minutes at 390°F or 400°F.

Salmon patty ingredients

Salmon patties are easy to make and can be cooked in an air fryer. The ingredients for making salmon patties include:

• Salmon: Fresh or canned salmon works for these patties. You can use leftover cooked salmon or canned salmon.
• Binder: Eggs act as a binder and lend moisture to the patty.
• Breadcrumbs: These can be plain or seasoned. You can also use shredded bread or saltines.
• Onion: This adds flavour and texture to the patty.
• Seasoning: You can add salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, or cilantro.

You can also add other ingredients like bell peppers, mayonnaise, mustard, or dill. Some people also like to add crushed Ritz crackers or avocado oil for extra flavour and texture.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for cooking salmon patties in an air fryer vary depending on the desired level of crispiness and the model of the air fryer. It is important to note that air fryers differ in temperature settings, and cook times vary between models. Therefore, it is crucial to refer to the specific instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your air fryer.

However, based on the sources provided, here is a general guide for air fryer temperature and timing when cooking salmon patties:

For a crispy texture:

• Set the air fryer temperature to between 390°F and 400°F.
• Cook the salmon patties for 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness.
• For the best results, keep a close eye on the patties during the final 1 to 2 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking or burning.
• Some recipes suggest spraying the patties with oil at the beginning and again during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking for extra moisture and a golden colour.

For a softer texture:

• Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F.
• Cook the salmon patties for approximately 5 minutes, or until warmed through.
• This lower temperature setting may result in drier and less crispy patties, so adjust the timing accordingly if a crispier texture is desired.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the patties, as well as the specific model of the air fryer. To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to form the patties into equal sizes and thicknesses. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and promote even crisping.

How to get crispy salmon patties

Salmon patties are a delicious and healthy meal that can be made in an air fryer. To get crispy salmon patties, there are several steps you can follow. Firstly, prepare your air fryer by placing a piece of air fryer parchment paper in the basket or spraying it with oil. This will help to prevent the patties from sticking and ensure even cooking.

For the salmon mixture, you can use either fresh or canned salmon, or even leftover salmon. If using canned salmon, remove any skin and bones, as these can affect the texture of your patties. In a medium bowl, combine the salmon with other ingredients such as eggs, onion, dill, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasoning. Mix well.

To ensure your patties hold together, it is recommended to place the mixture in the freezer for about 10 minutes. If the mixture is too wet, you can add some breadcrumbs or panko to help bind it. Form the mixture into patties, about 1 inch thick and of equal thickness across.

Now, it's time to cook your salmon patties. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F or 400°F, depending on your preference and the model of your air fryer. Spray the tops of the patties with cooking spray or oil, which will help them crisp up and turn golden brown. Place the patties in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded as this can affect air circulation and crispiness.

Cook the salmon patties for about 8 to 12 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For the crispiest patties, consider spraying them with oil again during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Serve your crispy salmon patties with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Storing and reheating salmon patties

Storing salmon patties:

Salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the salmon patties in a freezer container and thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating salmon patties:

It is best to reheat salmon patties slowly and at a low temperature to prevent them from drying out. Reheating salmon patties in a pan over medium-low heat is recommended. If using a non-stick pan, additional oil may not be necessary. Cover the pan with a lid and heat the patties on both sides until they are warmed through.

Salmon patties can also be reheated in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes. It is recommended to spray the patties with oil before reheating and to add a second spray just before serving.

It is generally not recommended to reheat seafood, including salmon patties, in the microwave, as it can dry out the food and release a strong fishy aroma. However, some sources suggest that salmon patties can be eaten cold in salads or flaked apart and used as an ingredient in new dishes.

Serving suggestions

Salmon patties cooked in an air fryer are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:

Salads and Vegetables

Salmon patties pair well with fresh, green salads. You can serve them on a bed of mixed greens, spinach, arugula, or spring mix, with lemon slices or a squeeze of lemon juice on the side. They also taste great with chopped veggies like cherry tomatoes, avocado, red or green peppers, mushrooms, corn, or steamed broccoli or green beans on the side.

Sauces and Dips

A variety of sauces and dips can accompany salmon patties. You can serve them with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, remoulade sauce, garlic aioli, creamy dill dip, or a special sauce like lemon tahini dressing. If you're feeling adventurous, try making a caper sauce by mixing ingredients in a small bowl and whisking until the sugar is dissolved, then adding salt and black pepper to taste.

Carbs and Proteins

For a heartier meal, serve the salmon patties with mashed or boiled potatoes, quinoa salad, or rice bowls. If you're looking for a more portable option, sandwich the patties between potato buns and top them with remoulade sauce for a delicious slider.

Sides and Appetizers

Salmon patties can be a great addition to a larger meal or served as an appetizer. Try serving them with Parmesan asparagus fries, garlic butter mushrooms, or air-fried vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Storage and Reheating

These salmon patties can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen and then reheated in the air fryer or oven. When reheating, cook for 5 minutes or until warmed through, and consider adding an extra spray of oil to maintain crispness.

Feel free to experiment with different serving suggestions and create your own unique combinations to suit your taste preferences!

Frequently asked questions