If there’s one dish that always hits the mark in my house, it’s these Mediterranean salmon patties. I remember the first time I threw them together—it was during a week when our budget was tight and dinner had to be fast. I had a can of salmon, some leftover herbs, and a hungry family to feed. These patties became a surprise hit, with crispy edges, warm spices, and a flavor that reminded me of summer nights by the sea. Since then, they’ve become a go-to when I need something easy, healthy, and packed with Mediterranean charm.
In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make these budget-friendly salmon patties, what to pair them with, and how to keep them from falling apart. Additionally, I’ll address common questions families often ask when preparing a satisfying meal like this. You’ll also find great internal links to related Cheap Family Recipes you can try next.
Mediterranean Salmon Patties
Ingredients
Method
- Combine salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, herbs, lemon juice, garlic, and spices in a bowl.
- Mix gently just until combined.
- Shape mixture into 6 patties.
- Refrigerate if mixture feels too soft.
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with desired sides.
Nutrition
Notes
- These patties freeze well both before and after cooking. Store uncooked patties with parchment between layers and cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes per side.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
- To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Swap parsley with cilantro or dill for a flavor twist.
- Great for lunchboxes, wraps, or on top of salads for a quick protein boost.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Table of Contents
Why Mediterranean Salmon Patties Are a Family Dinner Win
A Frugal Favorite with Big Flavor
Mediterranean salmon patties blend pantry staples with bold, wholesome ingredients like lemon, garlic, parsley, and olive oil. They’re inspired by coastal cuisine but built with affordable ingredients, making them ideal for families trying to stretch their grocery dollars without giving up taste.
When I make these, I rely on canned salmon, which is cheaper than fresh but still loaded with protein and omega-3s. It’s a smart choice for busy families, especially when paired with zesty spices and Mediterranean herbs. The result? Crispy patties on the outside, tender and flavorful inside—perfect for wrapping in pita, tossing over salad, or serving with a dip.
If you enjoy cozy and healthy meals like this, you might also love the Spanish Rice Soup—it’s another dish that brings warmth and comfort without stretching the budget.
Fast, Flexible, and Kid-Approved
These mediterranean salmon patties are fast—like weeknight dinner fast. With just a few steps and simple ingredients, they’re on the table in 30 minutes or less. You can shape them ahead, refrigerate, or even freeze them, which makes them a flexible option for meal planning.
The best part? Kids eat them. Maybe it’s the crispy edges or the fun dipping sauces, but they always go fast in our house. Plus, they’re mild enough for picky eaters while still flavorful enough for the grown-ups.
I sometimes serve them with a side like High Protein Egg Bites with Cottage Cheese—the combo makes a protein-packed, satisfying meal the whole family enjoys.
How to Make Mediterranean Salmon Patties Step by Step
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Mediterranean salmon patties come together with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for about 6 patties:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) of wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain both work)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
These ingredients give the Mediterranean salmon patties their signature balance—fresh, herby, with a little warmth from the spices.
Instructions: Easy, Quick, and Family-Friendly
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, salt, cumin, paprika, and pepper. Use a fork to gently mix everything together. Don’t overwork the mixture—just enough to hold it all together.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each one into a patty, about ¾-inch thick. If the mixture feels too loose, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add about 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Add the patties to the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, flipping gently, until they’re golden brown and heated through. The outside should be crisp, and the inside should stay moist and flaky.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve your Mediterranean salmon patties right away while the edges are still crispy. They’re delicious tucked into pita bread, over couscous, or next to a vibrant side.
Speaking of sides, these patties go beautifully with a fresh twist like the Cottage Cheese Bagels. Toasted and slathered with tzatziki or hummus, they’re a satisfying pairing that makes the meal feel complete.
What to Serve with Mediterranean Salmon Patties
Flavor-Packed Sides to Complete the Meal
Once your Mediterranean salmon patties are sizzling and ready, the next question is: what do you serve them with? Thankfully, these patties are so versatile that they match up with a variety of budget-friendly sides. For a bright and balanced plate, aim for fresh greens, grains, or creamy sauces that play off the herbs and lemon in the patties.
A simple cucumber-tomato salad with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of feta cheese is always a hit in my home. Couscous or orzo tossed with herbs and lemon zest makes a great base, too. And of course, you can’t go wrong with a dollop of tzatziki or hummus on the side.
If you’re looking for something hearty and cheesy, try serving these with the Mac and Cheese bowl recipe. The creamy, rich flavor balances out the brightness of the Mediterranean salmon patties, and the kids love it.
Lunches, Leftovers, and Make-Ahead Tips
These Mediterranean salmon patties aren’t just a one-night meal. They’re just as good the next day, tucked into lunchboxes or warmed up in a skillet. I often make a double batch and freeze half—uncooked or cooked, both options work.
To freeze uncooked patties, shape and place them between pieces of parchment in an airtight container. Cook them straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to each side. For leftovers, store in the fridge and reheat in a skillet to keep the outside crispy.
They’re excellent for meal prep, too. Pair with a grain salad, roasted veggies, or a light spread, and you’ve got lunch sorted for days. If you’re planning for the week, consider making a batch of Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice alongside—both dishes reheat well and are perfect for prepping nutritious lunches on a budget.
Mediterranean Salmon Patties? – Your Questions Answered
What goes well with Mediterranean salmon patties?
These patties pair well with a variety of sides like couscous, quinoa, roasted vegetables, fresh tomato-cucumber salads, or dips such as hummus and tzatziki. You can also serve them in pita pockets with greens or alongside a simple lemon rice dish.
How do you keep salmon patties from falling apart?
To help your Mediterranean salmon patties stay together, make sure to use a binding ingredient like egg and enough breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture. If the mixture feels too wet or loose, chill it for 10–15 minutes before shaping and cooking. Avoid flipping them too soon in the skillet—let a crust form first.
Are salmon patties good for meal prep?
Absolutely. Mediterranean salmon patties are excellent for meal prep. You can cook a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. They reheat well in a skillet or oven and work great for lunchboxes or quick dinners.
Can I use canned salmon for Mediterranean salmon patties?
Yes, canned salmon works perfectly for this recipe and is budget-friendly. Just be sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin if needed. It delivers great flavor and texture without the higher price tag of fresh salmon.
Conclusion
Mediterranean salmon patties are one of those rare recipes that check all the boxes: they’re affordable, fast, healthy, and incredibly flexible. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight, prepping ahead for busy lunches, or just craving something satisfying and packed with flavor, this recipe delivers.
Want more inspiration for family meals that fit your budget and schedule? Follow me on Pinterest for new recipe pins every week, or join the conversation on Facebook where we share tips, swaps, and easy wins from real kitchens.
Dinner doesn’t have to be expensive to bring everyone to the table. With Mediterranean salmon patties, you’ve got a reliable recipe that tastes like a little trip to the coast, without ever leaving home.
