Spicy Chipotle Salmon Cakes
These spicy chipotle salmon cakes are bursting with flavor, featuring flaky salmon, a kick from chipotle powder, and fresh cilantro and lime, pan-fried to golden perfection. They are perfect as an appetizer or a light main course.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Small bowl
- Fork
- Whisk
- Large non-stick skillet
- Paper towel-lined plate
Ingredients
Salmon Cakes
- 1 (14.75-ounce) can canned salmon drained and flaked (or 1.5 cups cooked fresh salmon)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs plus extra for coating if desired
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced red onion
- 1-2 teaspoons chipotle powder adjust to your spice preference
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions
Instructions
- Drain canned salmon, check for bones or skin, and flake into a bowl, or flake fresh cooked salmon into the bowl.
- Whisk together egg, mayonnaise, and lime juice in a separate small bowl.
- Add panko breadcrumbs, minced red onion, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and fresh cilantro to the flaked salmon.
- Pour the wet mixture over the salmon and dry ingredients, then gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Season with salt and pepper.
- Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, form into 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick patties, and optionally coat with extra panko or chill in the refrigerator.
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
- Remove salmon cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with a creamy avocado dressing or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. These salmon cakes can be made ahead of time and reheated gently in a skillet or oven. Leftovers are great in salads or sandwiches.