Air-Fryer Salmon Cakes: A Healthy, Quick Treat

Air fryers are a great way to cook salmon cakes, yielding a crispy exterior and a tender interior in under 15 minutes. The cakes are made with a mixture of salmon, eggs, breadcrumbs, and spices, shaped into patties, and cooked in the air fryer. The air fryer's ability to brown and crisp the cakes while using less oil than traditional frying methods makes it a popular choice for this dish. Additionally, the cakes can be made with either canned or fresh salmon, making them a convenient and economical option.

How to get the perfect golden brown colour

To get the perfect golden brown colour, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, ensure that the patties are not overcrowded in the air fryer. This is important because overcrowding can block air circulation, preventing the patties from crisping up evenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the patties in batches.

Secondly, make sure the patties are evenly sized and shaped. This will help them cook through at the same time. Use a measuring cup or an ice cream scoop to get consistent portions, and gently pat the mixture into patties that are no more than 1 inch thick.

Thirdly, don't forget to spray the patties with oil. This will help them brown and also prevent sticking. You can use olive oil, avocado oil, or a non-stick cooking spray. Spray the patties at the start of cooking and again during the last 1-2 minutes for an extra boost of colour and moisture.

Finally, keep an eye on the patties as they cook. Depending on your air fryer and the position of the patties, the cooking time may vary. Aim for a total cooking time of around 8-12 minutes at 390°F (200°C), flipping the patties halfway through. The patties are ready when they are golden brown and cooked through.

The best oil to use for cooking salmon cakes

Air fryers are a great way to cook salmon cakes, yielding a crispy exterior and a tender interior while reducing the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying methods.

When it comes to the best oil for cooking salmon cakes in an air fryer, the answer is olive oil. Specifically, olive oil cooking spray or non-stick spray is recommended. This is because it is less likely to clog up your air fryer basket over time compared to other types of oil, such as vegetable oil spray. Avocado oil spray is another option that can be used instead of olive oil.

In addition to the type of oil, the amount of oil used is also important. Salmon cakes only require a light coating of oil or a few sprays of cooking spray on the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Using too much oil can make the cakes greasy and less crispy. It is also important to note that overcrowding the air fryer basket can block air circulation and prevent the cakes from crisping up, so it is best to cook them in batches if needed.

Tips for cooking salmon cakes in an air fryer

• To ensure even cooking, shape the salmon cakes into evenly sized patties before placing them in the air fryer.
• For the crispiest results, do not overlap or stack the salmon cakes in the air fryer.
• Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature.
• If you want to add extra flavour to your salmon cakes, you can include ingredients such as chopped green onion, fresh chives, or other crispy vegetables.

How to make the salmon cakes crispy

To make salmon cakes crispy in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the cakes are evenly sized and not overcrowded in the air fryer, as this would block air circulation and prevent them from crisping up. For the crispiest results, make sure there is space between each cake and that they are not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Spraying the patties with oil at the start of the cooking time and again during the last 1-2 minutes can help to restore moisture and make the cakes even crispier and golden brown.

To make the salmon mixture, combine the salmon, eggs, mayo, salt, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, dill, and any other desired seasonings in a large bowl. Use a spatula to mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. You can also add bell peppers, onion, or other crispy vegetables to the mixture for extra flavour.

Once the mixture is ready, use a 1/2 cup measuring cup to scoop out the desired amount and form it into a patty that is no more than 1 inch thick and of equal thickness across. This will ensure even cooking and help achieve the desired crispiness.

After forming the patties, lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or nonstick cooking spray and place the patties inside, making sure they are not overlapping. Set the air fryer to 390°F and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown. For best results, turn the patties over halfway through the cooking time.

By following these steps and adjusting the cooking time and temperature as needed for your specific air fryer, you can achieve crispy and delicious salmon cakes.

What to serve with salmon cakes

Salmon cakes are a delicious and easy-to-make dish, and there are plenty of sides that can be served with them. For a healthier option, a salad or slaw can be a great choice. A tangy apple slaw made with cabbage, apples, and carrots, and doused in a creamy poppy seed dressing is a perfect example. Alternatively, a classic coleslaw with a healthy spin—fewer mayo and no refined sugar—can be a great option.

If you're looking for something more substantial, rice, fries, or couscous can be great options. Baked sweet potato fries, in particular, can add a nice crispy texture and are perfectly seasoned. Couscous, a traditional Berber dish, is fluffy, flavorful, and can be prepared in just 10 minutes. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, is another fast option that can be cooked in a few minutes.

For a heartier meal, serve the salmon cakes with a side of potato salad, summer pasta salad, or cucumber salad. Potato salad made with russet potatoes and egg whites, combined with a creamy dressing of egg yolks and Miracle Whip, is a classic option. A summer pasta salad with al dente pasta, crunchy vegetables, chickpeas, feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing is also a refreshing choice.

Lastly, don't forget the sauces! Tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and avocado crema are all excellent choices to pair with salmon cakes.

How to store leftover salmon cakes

To store leftover salmon cakes, you have a few options. You can store them in the refrigerator or freezer, either cooked or uncooked.

Refrigerating Cooked Salmon Cakes

If you have leftover cooked salmon cakes, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing Cooked Salmon Cakes

You can also freeze leftover cooked salmon cakes. Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

Refrigerating Uncooked Salmon Cakes

If you have uncooked salmon cakes, you can store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap, and they will keep for up to 2 days.

Freezing Uncooked Salmon Cakes

To freeze uncooked salmon cakes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or an airtight container and store them in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. When you're ready to cook them, thaw them, then dip them into the egg and breadcrumb mixture before cooking as usual.

Frequently asked questions