Salmon Patties:Do You Put Mayo in Salmon Patties?

Salmon patties offer a delicious way to enjoy this nutritious fish in a convenient form that appeals to seafood lovers and picky eaters alike. Among the many debates surrounding this versatile dish, one question frequently divides home cooks: should you use mayonnaise in salmon patties? Some swear by mayo for creating the perfect texture and moisture, while others prefer alternative binding agents. This article explores both approaches, providing you with everything you need to make informed decisions about this classic dish.

Understanding Salmon Patties

What Are Salmon Patties?

Salmon patties, also known as salmon cakes or salmon croquettes, are compact patties made from flaked salmon mixed with various ingredients to bind the fish together and enhance its flavor. Dating back generations, these patties originated as a practical way to stretch leftover salmon or make canned salmon more appealing. Today, they’ve evolved into a beloved dish prepared in countless variations across different cultures.

The typical salmon patty includes:

• Salmon (fresh, canned, or smoked)
• A starchy component (bread crumbs, crushed crackers, or cooked rice)
• Aromatics (onions, celery, bell peppers, or herbs)
• Binding agents (eggs, mayonnaise, or alternatives)
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, dill, lemon zest)

What makes salmon patties so popular is their adaptability—they can be adjusted to accommodate different taste preferences and dietary requirements while still delivering satisfying flavor and texture.

The Role of Bindings in Salmon Patties

Binding agents serve as the glue that holds salmon patties together during cooking. Without proper binding, patties can crumble when flipped or fall apart on the plate, resulting in a frustrating cooking experience and less-than-impressive presentation.

Beyond their structural function, binding agents influence:

• Moisture content and juiciness
• Richness and mouthfeel
• Overall flavor profile
• Texture variation between the crispy exterior and tender interior

The most common binding agents include eggs (which provide protein that firms up when cooked), mayonnaise (which adds fat and emulsifiers), bread crumbs (which absorb moisture), and various starches. The right combination creates patties that hold their shape while remaining tender and moist.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon Patties

Regardless of how you prepare them, salmon patties offer impressive nutritional value. Salmon ranks among the most nutritious foods available, delivering:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): These essential fats support heart health, brain function, and may help reduce inflammation.
• High-quality protein: A 3-ounce serving provides about 22 grams of complete protein.
• Vitamin D: Often called the “sunshine vitamin,” salmon is one of the few food sources of this important nutrient.
• B vitamins: Particularly B12, which supports energy production and neurological function.
• Selenium: A mineral with antioxidant properties that supports thyroid function.
• Potassium: Essential for heart function and blood pressure regulation.

Compared to beef patties, salmon patties typically contain less saturated fat and more heart-healthy omega-3s. Even when prepared with mayonnaise, they remain a nutritious choice, especially when baked instead of fried.

The Controversy Around Mayonnaise in Salmon Patties

Traditional Recipes and Their Ingredients

Historical salmon patty recipes reflect regional preferences and available ingredients. In the American South, salmon croquettes typically include mayonnaise, eggs, and cornmeal, creating a distinctive texture and flavor profile. New England versions often incorporate potatoes and less mayonnaise, while Pacific Northwest recipes might showcase fresh salmon with minimal binders to let the quality fish shine through.

Mid-century American cookbooks frequently include mayonnaise in salmon patty recipes, coinciding with the rise of commercially produced mayonnaise as a pantry staple. These classic recipes often emphasize the convenience and reliability that mayonnaise brings to the dish.

International variations bring their own perspectives:

• Japanese salmon cakes (salmon korokke) use mashed potatoes as the primary binder
• British fishcakes often rely on roux or white sauce
• Scandinavian versions frequently use minimal binders, focusing on fresh dill and lemon

The Case for Using Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise enthusiasts point to several compelling advantages:

Superior moisture retention: The oil content in mayonnaise helps prevent patties from drying out during cooking, resulting in juicier finished patties.

Enhanced flavor development: The combination of egg yolks, oil, and acid in mayonnaise creates a flavor foundation that complements salmon’s natural richness while adding subtle complexity.

Improved textural contrast: Mayonnaise helps create the ideal contrast between a crispy exterior and tender interior that makes the best salmon patties so satisfying.

Reliable binding: As an emulsion, mayonnaise provides consistent binding power, helping patties hold together during cooking and serving.

Professional chefs often rely on a specific ratio—about 1-2 tablespoons of mayonnaise per cup of flaked salmon—to achieve optimal results without overwhelming the fish’s flavor.

Alternatives to Mayonnaise

For those who prefer to skip the mayo, several alternatives can provide comparable benefits:

Greek yogurt: Offers similar creaminess with less fat and more protein. Its tanginess pairs naturally with salmon, though it may create a slightly less rich texture.

Avocado: When mashed, provides healthy fats and binding properties similar to mayonnaise. Best used in recipes with complementary flavors like lime, cilantro, or jalapeño.

Tahini: This sesame paste creates rich texture while adding a nutty flavor dimension that works particularly well with Middle Eastern seasonings.

Ricotta cheese: Adds moisture and binding with a mild flavor that doesn’t compete with the salmon.

Olive oil and lemon juice: A simple combination that adds moisture and brightness without the creamy texture of mayonnaise.

These alternatives accommodate various dietary needs, including dairy-free, egg-free, or lower-fat requirements.

Preparing Salmon Patties with or without Mayonnaise

Step-by-Step Recipe with Mayonnaise

Classic Salmon Patties with Mayonnaise Makes 8 patties

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (about 2 cups) cooked salmon, skin and bones removed, flaked
• 3 tablespoons quality mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup finely diced red bell pepper
• ¼ cup finely diced celery
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with mayonnaise, egg, and Dijon mustard, mixing gently until just combined.
2. Add the panko bread crumbs, diced vegetables, herbs, zest, and seasonings. Fold together until evenly mixed, being careful not to overmix or compact the mixture.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
4. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape into patties about ¾-inch thick, pressing gently to compact.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
6. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
7. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil before serving.

The mayonnaise in this recipe creates a silky texture while helping the patties brown beautifully and retain moisture during cooking.

Step-by-Step Recipe without Mayonnaise

Mediterranean Salmon Patties (No Mayo) Makes 8 patties

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (about 2 cups) cooked salmon, skin and bones removed, flaked
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons olive oil, plus more for cooking
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon with beaten eggs and olive oil, mixing gently.
2. Add bread crumbs, onion, garlic, herbs, lemon juice, and seasonings. Stir until just combined.
3. If the mixture seems too wet, add additional bread crumbs one tablespoon at a time. If too dry, add a splash of water or additional lemon juice.
4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.
5. Form into 8 equal-sized patties, about ¾-inch thick.
6. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp on the exterior.
8. Drain briefly on paper towels before serving.

To maintain moisture without mayonnaise, this recipe relies on eggs and olive oil while adding extra flavor through aromatics and herbs. The key to success is not overcooking the patties, which can cause them to dry out.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ideal Side Dishes for Salmon Patties

Salmon patties pair wonderfully with sides that complement their flavors without overwhelming them:

Vegetable sides:

• Roasted asparagus with lemon
• Green beans almondine
• Cucumber-dill salad
• Sautéed spinach with garlic
• Classic coleslaw

Starchy accompaniments:

• Lemon herb rice
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Creamy polenta
• Quinoa pilaf with herbs
• Crusty artisan bread

Sauce options:

• Lemon-dill yogurt sauce
• Caper remoulade
• Creamy avocado sauce
• Simple tartar sauce
• Dijon-herb aioli

For beverages, consider Pinot Grigio, unoaked Chardonnay, Saison beer, or sparkling water with cucumber and lemon to complement the patties without overwhelming their flavor.

Creative Ways to Serve Salmon Patties

Beyond the traditional plated dinner, salmon patties can be repurposed into various meal concepts:

Salmon Patty Benedict: Top an English muffin with a salmon patty, poached egg, and light hollandaise for an impressive brunch offering.

Mediterranean Wrap: Wrap a room-temperature salmon patty in a warm pita with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and tzatziki sauce.

Salmon Patty Sliders: Serve mini patties on small buns with arugula and lemon-caper aioli for an elevated appetizer.

Salmon Patty Grain Bowl: Pair with quinoa or farro, roasted vegetables, and a tahini drizzle for a nutritious lunch.

Salmon Patty Salad: Break a patty over mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette.

These versatile options demonstrate how a single batch of salmon patties can be transformed into several distinct meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

The debate over mayonnaise in salmon patties ultimately comes down to personal preference, dietary considerations, and the specific flavor profile you’re trying to achieve. Mayonnaise undeniably contributes moisture, richness, and binding properties that many home cooks value. However, delicious salmon patties can certainly be created without it, using thoughtfully chosen alternatives.

Like many culinary debates, there’s no definitively “correct” answer. The beauty of cooking lies in personalization and adaptation. Whether you’re firmly on team mayonnaise or prefer alternative approaches, the most important factors are that your salmon patties reflect your taste preferences and meet your dietary needs.

Consider trying both methods to determine which you prefer—you might find that you enjoy mayo-based patties for certain occasions and mayo-free versions for others. The most successful salmon patty is ultimately the one that brings you satisfaction and enjoyment while providing the nutritional benefits that make salmon such a valuable addition to any diet.

Whichever binding path you choose, you’ll be creating a versatile dish with impressive nutritional value and endless serving possibilities that can be adapted to suit any meal occasion.

For a delicious and elegant meal, try the Salmon and Shrimp Pasta from Perky Recipes. This dish combines tender salmon, succulent shrimp, and a creamy sauce for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a great choice for a special dinner! Check out the full recipe here: Salmon and Shrimp Pasta.