Air-Fried Salmon Croquettes: A Healthy, Quick Treat

Salmon croquettes, also known as salmon patties or cakes, can be made in an air fryer. This cooking method gives the croquettes a crispy exterior without the need for oil, resulting in a healthier alternative to pan-frying. The patties are typically made with canned or leftover salmon, combined with ingredients like eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, and then shaped into patties before being cooked in the air fryer.

How to make salmon croquettes in an air fryer

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make salmon croquettes in an air fryer:

• Canned or cooked fresh salmon
• Panko or regular breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Lemon juice
• Mayonnaise
• Dill
• Salt and pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil or avocado oil nonstick cooking spray
• Parchment paper
• Optional: mashed potatoes, red bell pepper, peas, green onions, mustard, parsley, and other seasonings

Method

• Prepare the salmon by removing any bones and skin. If using canned salmon, drain the liquid.
• In a large bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, lemon juice, mayonnaise, dill, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings or ingredients such as mashed potatoes, red bell pepper, or peas. Mix until well combined.
• Form the mixture into patties, about 1/2 cup each and 1 inch thick.
• Preheat your air fryer to between 390-400°F (200°C).
• Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and spray with olive oil or avocado oil.
• Place the salmon croquettes into the prepared basket, leaving space between them. Spray the tops of the croquettes with oil.
• Cook the croquettes for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Flip them over, spray again with oil, and cook for an additional 4-7 minutes.
• Serve with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or your favorite sides.

Tips

• If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If it is too dry, add another egg or some mayonnaise.
• To prevent the croquettes from sticking to the air fryer, spray it with olive oil or avocado oil before adding the croquettes.
• For crispy croquettes, spray the tops of the croquettes with oil before cooking.
• If you want to freeze the croquettes, place them on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.

Ingredients and alternatives

Salmon

Salmon croquettes can be made with either canned or fresh salmon. If using canned salmon, it is important to drain and flake the fish before adding it to the mixture. Any bones and skin should be removed, although some choose to keep them in for added nutrition.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are needed to bind the croquettes and give them structure. Panko breadcrumbs are often used, as they give a crunchy texture, but regular breadcrumbs can also be used. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are an option for those with gluten intolerance.

Eggs

Eggs are essential for binding the croquette mixture.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise adds flavour and moisture to the croquettes. Avocado mayo or regular mayo can be used.

Dill

Dill is a key ingredient in salmon croquettes, adding freshness and flavour. Fresh or dried dill can be used.

Lemon

Lemon zest adds a bright citrus flavour to the croquettes. Lemon juice can also be added for extra zing.

Onion

Finely chopped onion or red onion adds flavour and colour to the croquettes. Onion powder can also be used.

Potato

Mashed potato can be used as a binding agent instead of, or in addition to, eggs. A starchy potato such as Russet or Yukon gold works well.

Spices and Seasonings

Spices and seasonings can be added to the croquette mixture to enhance the flavour. Suggested options include Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and curry powder.

Cooking Spray

A cooking spray, such as avocado oil or olive oil spray, is needed to grease the air fryer basket and prevent the croquettes from sticking.

Substitutions and Variations

Salmon croquettes can be cooked in an oven or skillet as an alternative to an air fryer. They can also be frozen and cooked from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

The type of fish can also be varied; cod, tuna, or trout can be used instead of salmon. For a spicy kick, add minced jalapeño or hot sauce to the mixture.

Step-by-step instructions

Ingredients:

• Salmon – Use canned or cooked fresh salmon.
• Potatoes – A starchy potato like Russet or Yukon gold works best for getting a smooth mash and acts as a binding agent.
• Eggs – These bind the mixture and help the breading stick.
• Green onions – Finely chop the green parts only for a fresh flavor.
• Red bell pepper – Finely chop for color, crunch, and flavor.
• Peas – Use fresh or frozen peas for texture and color contrast, and a nice pop of flavor.
• Parsley and dill – Freshly chopped herbs for brightness.
• Lemon – Zest and juice add bright citrus flavor.
• Mayonnaise – This helps bind the patties.
• Mustard – Grainy Dijon mustard has a nice texture.
• Panko breadcrumbs – These give the croquettes a crispy coating when air-fried.
• Garlic – Minced garlic adds savory flavor.
• Salt and pepper – These season the mixture.

Optional Ingredients:

• Cornmeal – For coating the patties.
• Olive oil – For cooking spray.
• Avocado oil – For cooking spray.
• Vegetable oil – For cooking spray.
• Red onion – Chopped red onion adds flavor to the patties.
• Onion powder – For flavor.
• Garlic powder – For flavor.
• Kosher salt – For flavor.
• Ground black pepper – For flavor.
• Freshly chopped parsley – For flavor.
• Tartar sauce – For serving.
• Lemon wedges – For serving.

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Large bowl
• Medium bowl
• Ice cream scoop or small measuring cup
• Air fryer basket or tray
• Air fryer liner (optional)
• Cooking spray
• Parchment paper
• Freezer container (if freezing)
• Airtight container (if storing in the fridge)

• Prepare the salmon by removing any bones or skin. If using canned salmon, drain the liquid and flake the salmon. If using fresh salmon, pulse the salmon fillets in a food processor until you have small pieces of flaky salmon meat.
• Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Add them to a large pot of boiling water and cook until soft. Drain the water and mash the potatoes until fluffy. Let the potatoes cool completely.
• In a large bowl, combine the salmon with the rest of the ingredients. Mix well.
• Measure out the salmon mixture using a 1/2 cup measuring cup and form it into round patties about 1" thick. If using cornmeal, gently coat the patties in cornmeal.
• Preheat your air fryer to 390-425°F.
• Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer has a liner, you can place the patties on that. Otherwise, grease the air fryer tray or basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
• Spray the tops of the patties with cooking spray or olive oil.
• Cook the patties for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Flip the patties over, spray the tops again, and cook for an additional 1-7 minutes, until the patties are fully cooked.
• Serve immediately with tartar sauce and lemon wedges, or your desired sides and sauces.

Tips:

• If your patties are falling apart, try adding more mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, or another egg to the mixture.
• If your patties are too wet, add some extra breadcrumbs or freeze the mixture for about 10 minutes to help it hold together.
• If you want to freeze your uncooked or cooked patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.
• To reheat, place the patties back in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes, or until heated through.

Tips and tricks

Ingredients

You can use either canned or fresh salmon to make salmon croquettes. If using canned salmon, remove any remaining bones and skin. If using fresh salmon, shred the cooked salmon into small, flaky pieces. You can use a food processor to do this.

You can also add other ingredients to the salmon mixture, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or different types of breadcrumbs.

Preparation

Before cooking, prepare the air fryer by lining the basket with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray or oil. You can use olive oil or avocado oil spray.

To make the salmon mixture, combine the salmon with your choice of binders and seasonings in a large bowl. Form the mixture into patties, making sure they are roughly equal in shape and size.

Cooking

Place the salmon croquettes into the prepared air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray the tops of the croquettes with cooking spray or oil.

Cook the croquettes at around 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping them over halfway through. They are done when they are golden brown and crispy.

Serving

Salmon croquettes can be served as an appetizer or main course. They can be served with a variety of sides, such as lemon wedges, tartar sauce, salad, or steamed vegetables. They can also be served in sliders or rice bowls.

Serving suggestions

Salmon croquettes can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Salads: Salmon croquettes can be served on a bed of mixed greens, romaine, spinach, or arugula, with some extra veggies like cherry tomatoes and avocado. This makes for a wholesome and light meal.
• Bowls: You can serve the croquettes over rice or quinoa with roasted or steamed vegetables on the side.
• Sliders: For a more indulgent option, sandwich the salmon croquettes between potato buns and top them with remoulade sauce or garlic aioli.
• Main Course: Salmon croquettes can be a delicious main course when paired with sides such as Parmesan asparagus fries, quinoa salad, garlic butter mushrooms, mashed potatoes, or boiled potatoes. They also go well with simple vegetables like steamed broccoli or green beans.
• Appetizer or Tapas: In Spain, croquettes are often served as appetizers or as part of a tapas-style dinner. You can serve salmon croquettes as a tasty starter or as part of a shared meal with various small plates.
• Dipping Sauces: Salmon croquettes can be enjoyed with your favourite dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, remoulade, or lemon aioli.
• Side Dishes: If you're serving the salmon croquettes as part of a larger meal, some suggested side dishes include grilled vegetables, kale and Nappa salad, coleslaw, or fresh green beans.

Frequently asked questions