Salmon cakes, also known as salmon patties, are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even in sandwiches. While they are traditionally cooked by pan-frying, using an air fryer offers a healthier alternative that still yields crispy and flavorful results. In this article, we will guide you through a quick and easy recipe on how to cook salmon cakes in an air fryer. So, let’s dive right in!
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we get started with the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. For this particular recipe, you will need the following:
1. Salmon:
Start by purchasing fresh or frozen salmon fillets. Make sure the salmon is boneless and skinless for ease of preparation. You can also use canned salmon as a convenient option.
2. Breadcrumbs:
Breadcrumbs will help bind the salmon cakes together and provide a nice texture. You can use regular breadcrumbs or opt for panko breadcrumbs for added crispiness.
3. Eggs:
Eggs act as a natural binder, holding the ingredients together. You will need one or two eggs, depending on the quantity of salmon used.
4. Onion and Garlic:
Amp up the flavor of the salmon cakes by adding finely chopped onion and minced garlic. These aromatics will add a delightful note of savory goodness.
5. Fresh Herbs:
Consider incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro to enhance the taste and add a burst of freshness to your salmon cakes.
6. Lemon Zest:
A touch of lemon zest will brighten up the flavors and provide a hint of citrusy tang to the salmon cakes.
7. Seasonings:
To elevate the taste, include seasonings such as salt, black pepper, paprika, and any other spices or herbs of your choice.
Preparing the Salmon Mixture
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to prepare the salmon mixture for the cakes.
Start by cooking the salmon fillets if they are not already cooked. You can steam, poach, or bake the salmon until it is cooked through. Once cooked, allow the salmon to cool slightly.
Once the salmon is at a manageable temperature, flake it into small pieces using a fork. Make sure to remove any bones or skin, if present.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh herbs, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you desire.
Crack one or two eggs into the mixture, depending on the quantity of salmon used. The eggs will help bind everything together. Mix all the ingredients until well-combined. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to moisten it.
Forming and Cooking the Salmon Cakes
Now that our salmon mixture is ready, it’s time to form the patties and cook them in the air fryer.
Start by preheating your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically around 375°F (190°C). This may vary depending on your specific air fryer model, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
While the air fryer is preheating, take a portion of the salmon mixture and shape it into a patty using your hands. The size and thickness of the patties are up to your preference.
Place the formed salmon cake onto a plate or tray, and repeat the process until all the mixture is used. Make sure to leave some space between the salmon cakes, as this allows the air to circulate freely during cooking.
Once the air fryer has preheated, carefully arrange the salmon cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If needed, cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Cook the salmon cakes in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The precise cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your salmon cakes, as well as the specific air fryer used.
The salmon cakes are ready when they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. To ensure they are cooked thoroughly, you can check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C), as recommended by the FDA for the safe consumption of salmon.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Now that you have perfectly cooked salmon cakes from your air fryer, it’s time to enjoy them. Here are some serving suggestions and variations to try:
– Serve the salmon cakes as a main course accompanied by a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
– Make smaller salmon cake patties to serve as appetizers at parties or gatherings. They can be served with a flavorful dipping sauce like tartar sauce or sriracha mayo.
– Create a delicious salmon cake sandwich by placing the cooked patty between two toasted buns with lettuce, tomato slices, and your favorite condiments.
– For a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Conclusion
Cooking salmon cakes in an air fryer offers a healthier alternative to traditional pan-frying, without sacrificing the crispy texture and delightful flavors. With this quick and easy recipe guide, you can now prepare delicious salmon cakes with ease, whether you choose to enjoy them as a main course, appetizer, or in sandwiches. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try, and savor the goodness of these air-fried salmon cakes!