Name: Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked salmon, flaked; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil for frying; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 79 reviews

Nothing beats the satisfying crunch and rich flavor of perfectly cooked salmon cakes paired with a bright, creamy chive and garlic sauce. This Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Sauce Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish that’s both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these salmon cakes deliver on flavor and texture, while the sauce adds just the right herby zing to elevate every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four stages of making round chicken patties. The first stage in the top-left corner has a large metal bowl with raw ground chicken, a single egg yolk, breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, and spices visible, all mixed together. The second stage in the top-right corner shows six uncooked chicken patties shaped into balls, placed close together on a white marbled surface. The third stage in the bottom-left corner has six patties flattened slightly and placed on a black air fryer tray, ready for cooking, with a woman’s hand just out of frame. The final stage in the bottom-right corner shows six fully cooked golden-brown patties on the same black air fryer tray, with a crisp texture on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For a recipe this delightful, the ingredients are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to build layers of taste and texture. Each element plays its part in creating golden, crispy salmon cakes that stay tender inside, complemented by a silky chive and garlic sauce that brings everything together.

Fresh or canned salmon: The star protein, providing richness and moisture.

Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding and giving those cakes a perfect crust.
Eggs: Acting as a natural glue, ensuring your cakes hold their shape.
Green onions: Adding a subtle sharpness and fresh green color.

Mayonnaise: For moisture and a bit of tang in the cake mixture.
Dijon mustard: Giving a gentle kick that wakes up the flavors.
Lemon juice: Brightening both the salmon cakes and the sauce.

Fresh chives: Vital for the sauce, lending its mild onion flavor.
Garlic: A punch of aroma and depth in the sauce.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Providing creaminess and balancing the garlic in the sauce.

Olive oil or butter: For frying your salmon cakes to a golden crisp.
Salt and pepper: To season and enhance every ingredient.

How to Make Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon

Start by ensuring your salmon is cooked if using fresh; canned salmon just needs to be flaked. Break it into chunks, removing any skin or bones to avoid any unexpected chewiness. The texture here is key — you want large flakes that will hold together but still have a tender bite.

Step 2: Mixing the Cake Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the salmon with finely chopped green onions, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and an egg. Add enough breadcrumbs to bind everything without drying out the mixture. Season the blend with salt and pepper thoughtfully — every bit boosts the flavor foundation of your cakes.

Step 3: Forming the Cakes

Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties, about the size of your palm and roughly one inch thick. This helps with even cooking and gives you that satisfying “cake” shape that is perfect for pan-frying or baking.

Step 4: Cooking the Salmon Cakes

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the salmon cakes and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain that perfect crust.

Step 5: Preparing the Chive and Garlic Sauce

While your cakes are cooking, whisk together fresh chopped chives, minced garlic, sour cream or Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a creamy sauce. The freshness of the chives paired with the punch of garlic truly makes this sauce one of the best parts of the dish.

How to Serve Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Sauce Recipe

The image shows a close-up of two halves of a stuffed food item with golden-brown crispy edges and a soft, creamy interior filled with pink pieces that look like salmon and bits of green herbs. The halves are placed on a white plate with small speckles, beside a creamy white sauce dotted with black herbs. To the right, there are wedges of bright yellow lemon and part of a white bowl holding more of the sauce. In the background, a larger piece of the stuffed food is visible on a white marbled surface, along with a silver fork. The colors are warm and fresh, highlighting the crispy and soft textures together. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and reinforce the sauce’s herbal notes. A lemon wedge on the side invites each eater to add a final bright touch just before biting into these savory delights.

Side Dishes

Keep it light and fresh with a crisp green salad or herb-roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the salmon cakes. Creamy mashed potatoes or a bed of fluffy rice also make comforting pairings that soak up every bit of that luscious chive and garlic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the salmon cakes with layers of avocado slices and arugula for a gourmet twist. Or serve them as mini sliders on toasted buns with a dollop of the sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Either way, the presentation turns heads and sparks appetites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They maintain their flavor well and can be quickly reheated to enjoy yet again.

Freezing

If you want to keep these tasty cakes longer, freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a resealable bag. This method prevents sticking and lets you cook from frozen whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the crispy exterior without drying the inside. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect texture intact.

FAQs

Can I make the salmon cakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour, and your Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Sauce Recipe will stay just as delicious.

Is canned salmon a good substitute for fresh?

Canned salmon works wonderfully in this recipe. It’s convenient and flavorful, making it a great pantry staple to whip up these cakes anytime.

Can I bake the salmon cakes instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthy and less hands-on alternative. Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden.

How long does the chive and garlic sauce keep?

Stored in an airtight container, the sauce stays fresh in the fridge for up to four days. Give it a quick stir before serving as some separation is natural.

What if I don’t have sour cream for the sauce?

No worries! Greek yogurt or even mayonnaise can be used as a creamy base while still keeping that lovely balance of tang and richness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress with a dish that feels both special and approachable, try making this Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Sauce Recipe. It combines the best of crispy, tender, and creamy all in one bite, and is bound to become a favorite you’ll want to revisit again and again. Give it a go and enjoy every delicious moment!