Air-Fried Salmon Cakes: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a great way to cook salmon cakes, with the added bonus of being grease-free and oil-free. They are easy to make and can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. The cakes are usually made from canned or leftover salmon, with added ingredients like eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings to taste. The patties are formed and then placed in the air fryer for around 10 minutes, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior.

How to bind the salmon cakes together

To bind salmon cakes together, you will need binders such as eggs, panko, or breadcrumbs.

Firstly, prepare your salmon mixture by combining the salmon with eggs, mayo, bell pepper, breadcrumbs, parsley, and seasonings. Stir the mixture together until all the ingredients are well combined.

Next, use a measuring cup to scoop out the salmon mixture and shape it into patties. The scoop will also help with shaping. Ensure the patties are about 1 inch in thickness.

To prevent the salmon cakes from falling apart, chill the salmon mixture in the freezer for about 10 minutes before shaping it into patties. If the mixture is too wet, add some extra panko or breadcrumbs.

Finally, spritz the tops of the patties with cooking spray or olive oil to help them crisp up during the air frying process.

How to season the salmon cakes

To season salmon cakes, you can use a variety of herbs and spices. Here are some ideas to elevate your salmon cakes:

• Fresh or dried herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives can add a burst of flavour.
• Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper can bring warmth and depth to the cakes.
• Old Bay seasoning is a popular choice for salmon cakes and can be substituted with a mix of paprika, salt, and garlic powder.
• For a tangy kick, add some Dijon mustard or mayonnaise to the mixture.
• If you're feeling adventurous, try adding hot sauce, soy sauce, or Sriracha to the mix for a spicy twist.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.

Remember, the key to seasoning is to enhance the natural flavour of the salmon without overwhelming it. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste preference.

How to cook the salmon cakes in the air fryer

First, you'll want to gather your ingredients. Most recipes call for canned salmon, but you can use fresh cooked salmon if you prefer. You'll also need eggs, breadcrumbs or panko, mayonnaise, and seasonings like dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Some recipes also include mustard, onion, and/or bell pepper.

Once you have your ingredients, follow these steps:

• Preheat your air fryer to between 375°F and 400°F.
• In a medium bowl, combine the salmon, eggs, breadcrumbs or panko, mayonnaise, and any other ingredients you're using. Stir until everything is well combined.
• Use a measuring cup to scoop out the mixture, and shape it into patties about 1 inch thick.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil or non-stick cooking spray. Place the salmon patties in a single layer in the basket, and lightly spray the tops of the patties as well.
• Air fry the salmon patties for 8-10 minutes at 390°F to 400°F, turning them over halfway through the cooking time. They're done when they're golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the patty registers 160°F.
• Serve the salmon cakes with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

How to store leftover salmon cakes

Storing leftover salmon cakes is simple. If you're storing them in the refrigerator, they'll stay good for up to three days. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

If you want to freeze your leftover salmon cakes, they can be stored for up to two to three months. To prepare them for freezing, wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat them again, thaw them and then cook them in the air fryer or on a pan with a tiny bit of cooking oil.

What to serve with the salmon cakes

Salmon cakes are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your air-fried salmon cakes:

As a Main Course

You can serve the salmon cakes as a main course with a variety of sides. Some side dish options include:

• Salads: Arugula salad, kale Caesar salad, carrot salad, or a classic Caesar salad.
• Vegetables: Sautéed broccolini, lemony broiled asparagus, green beans almondine, grilled Brussels sprouts, or roasted garlic aioli.
• Starches: Lemon rice, couscous, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or sweet potato fries.

In a Bowl

Create a rice bowl with roasted or steamed vegetables and a squeeze of lemon.

As a Sandwich

Serve the salmon cakes as sliders or sandwiches, with toppings such as remoulade sauce, tartar sauce, or Dijon mustard. Use potato buns or pita bread.

As an Appetizer

Salmon cakes can be served as an appetizer or a side dish with your favourite seafood meal.

Frequently asked questions