Rustic Salmon Cakes with Cilantro

Name: Rustic Salmon Cakes with Cilantro
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed and roughly chopped; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: World Kitchen | Cooking Abroad

I love making Rustic Salmon Cakes with Cilantro because they are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of fresh salmon and vibrant cilantro creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for guests. I enjoy serving them with a zesty dipping sauce to elevate the flavors even further. Trust me, this recipe will make you a salmon lover if you aren't one already!

Created by

The Rebecabakes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T18:01:28.280Z

When I first tried making salmon cakes, I wasn't sure how they would turn out. I experimented with different herbs and spices before landing on cilantro, which adds a fresh kick that pairs beautifully with the salmon. The secret to keeping them rustic is not to over-process the salmon; a few chunky bits create a delightful texture.

Another tip I learned through trial and error is to let the cakes rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking, resulting in crispy outsides and tender insides. Trust me; these little cakes are worth the effort!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Deliciously crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful center
Fresh cilantro adds a unique twist to traditional salmon cakes
Simple ingredients make this a fast weeknight meal
Great for meal prep and freezes well for later use

Mastering Texture and Flavor

The key to achieving the perfect salmon cake texture lies in the balance of moist ingredients and the binding agents you choose. The breadcrumbs serve not only as a filler but also help absorb moisture from the salmon mixture, ensuring a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender center. Make sure to choose fine breadcrumbs for even texture, as coarse ones can lead to uneven cooking and a disjointed mouthfeel.

Additionally, using fresh salmon instead of canned or pre-cooked varieties enhances the overall taste and texture. Fresh salmon retains its natural oils, ensuring the cakes remain moist and delicate. If you prefer, you can substitute half of the salmon with cooked quinoa for a delicious twist, which adds nuttiness and additional fiber while keeping the classic flavor intact.

Dipping Sauce Pairings

Serving Rustic Salmon Cakes with a complementary dipping sauce elevates the entire dish. A simple yogurt-based sauce mixed with lime juice and a hint of sriracha can provide a refreshing yet spicy balance to the rich salmon flavors. Alternatively, a citrus-based vinaigrette works beautifully, cutting through the richness while enhancing the dish's zest with every bite.

When experimenting with sauces, consider your personal taste preferences and the overall vibe of the meal. If you’re serving these cakes as an appetizer, a sweet chili sauce can add a delightful contrast. I often make extra sauce to drizzle over the cakes for those who appreciate a bit of additional flavor!

Storing and Reheating Tips

One of the great aspects of these salmon cakes is their make-ahead potential. After forming the patties, you can freeze them on the parchment-lined plate for about an hour until fully firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. This way, you can have delicious homemade salmon cakes ready to go anytime. Just remember to separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.

When reheating, it's best to place the cakes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring they retain their crispy exterior. Microwaving can render them soggy, so I recommend the oven method for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed and roughly chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 large egg
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Now that you have your ingredients, let's prepare the salmon cakes!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your salmon cakes:

Prepare the Salmon Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, cilantro, green onions, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the salmon.

Form the Cakes

Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them for at least 10 minutes to help them firm up.

Cook the Salmon Cakes

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon cakes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the salmon cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Now you can enjoy your delicious Rustic Salmon Cakes with Cilantro!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of chili powder to the mixture. You can also pair these cakes with a simple avocado sauce for a creamy touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to reduce calories or make the dish gluten-free, you can replace traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Both options will help bind the ingredients while delivering a unique flavor. Alternatively, crushed gluten-free crackers can also serve as a suitable substitute, maintaining structure without compromising the cake's integrity.

For those who prefer plant-based options, consider using canned chickpeas mashed into a paste as a base. They provide a similar texture and protein while allowing the other flavors, like cilantro and green onions, to shine through. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning, as chickpeas can be quite bland on their own.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. If you’re preparing for a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients and form larger cakes for quicker cooking times. Keep in mind that larger patties will require a few extra minutes on the heat for even cooking and a thorough cook-through.

Conversely, if you're cooking for just one or two, you can form smaller, slider-sized cakes. These can be cooked in the same time frame, and you can serve them alongside a light salad or fresh veggies for a lighter meal option without skimping on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Yes, canned salmon works well! Just make sure to drain it thoroughly before mixing.

→ What can I serve these cakes with?

These salmon cakes are delicious with a variety of sauces like tartar, aioli, or even a spicy yogurt sauce.

→ Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to form and cook the cakes.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Let the salmon cakes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.