ThereS something irresistibly comforting about crispy, golden salmon patties-a perfect harmony of tender flakes and savory spices that dance on your palate with every bite. Now, imagine elevating that classic favorite with a vibrant twist: a zesty dill yogurt sauce that brightens each mouthful with fresh herbs and tangy creaminess. This Savory Salmon Patties with Zesty Dill Yogurt Sauce recipe isn’t just a meal; its a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in a delightful balance. Whether you’re seeking a wholesome weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, this recipe offers a deliciously easy way to enjoy the bounty of the sea with a refreshing splash of garden-fresh zest. Let’s dive into the secrets behind crafting these luscious patties and their irresistibly tangy companion sauce.
Savory salmon patties with zesty dill yogurt sauce recipe offer a delightful fusion of hearty flavors and fresh accents, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Drawing inspiration from coastal traditions, these patties boast a tender, flaky interior enveloped in a golden, crispy crust, while the tangy dill yogurt sauce elevates every bite with shining herbal notes and creamy richness.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 (makes 8 patties)
Difficulty Level
Easy
Ingredients
- For the Salmon Patties:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying
- For the Zesty Dill Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Patties: In a large bowl, gently combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, shallot, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix just until ingredients are incorporated-avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Form patties: Shape the mixture into eight evenly sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter and ¾ inch thick. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them firm up.
- Make the Zesty Dill Yogurt sauce: While the patties chill, whisk together Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, honey, and grated garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then cover and chill until ready to serve.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the salmon patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip only once to maintain their shape and crispiness.
- Drain and Rest: Remove the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: plate the salmon patties alongside a dollop of the zesty dill yogurt sauce and garnish with additional fresh dill or lemon wedges for a vibrant finish.
Tips for Success
- Salmon Choice: Wild-caught salmon enhances the flavor, but farm-raised works well, too. Avoid pre-cooked or canned salmon for best texture.
- Texture Balance: Adjust panko amounts slightly if the mixture feels too wet or too dry-aim for a cohesive but not dense patty.
- Chilling Time: Don’t skip refrigerating the patties before cooking; this step helps prevent them from falling apart during frying.
- Cooking Oil: Use olive oil or avocado oil for a heart-healthy option and crisp exterior.
- Make-Ahead: Patties can be formed and kept refrigerated up to 24 hours before frying. Sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead.
- Spice Variation: For a subtle kick, add chopped jalapeños to the mixture or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Present these savory salmon patties on a rustic wooden board or a bright ceramic plate. They pair beautifully with a crisp handful of arugula or microgreens lightly tossed in lemon vinaigrette. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges to highlight the zesty sauce. For a complete meal, serve with a side of quinoa salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. alternatively, slide patties into whole-grain buns with crunchy slaw for irresistible gourmet salmon sliders.

| nutrient | Per Serving (2 Patties + Sauce) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 16g |
For more vibrant seafood recipes,check out our Fresh Salmon Recipes Collection. Learn about the nutritional benefits of salmon at the National Dairy Council website.
Q&A
Q&A: Savory Salmon Patties with Zesty Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Q1: What makes these salmon patties savory and special?
A1: The secret lies in a blend of fresh herbs, finely chopped onions, and a dash of smoked paprika mixed into flaky, wild-caught salmon. This combination creates a rich, savory base that’s perfectly balanced by golden, crisped exteriors-each bite bursting with comforting umami and a hint of smokiness.
Q2: Can I use canned salmon for this recipe, or do I need fresh fish?
A2: Absolutely! Canned salmon is a convenient and budget-kind option.Just be sure to drain it well and remove any large bones or skin for the best texture.Fresh salmon works beautifully if you wont a more delicate, flaky patty with a fresher flavor profile.Q3: What’s the role of the zesty dill yogurt sauce?
A3: This sauce is your vibrant, creamy counterpart-cutting through the richness of the salmon with tangy Greek yogurt, bright lemon juice, and fresh dill. The zestiness adds a refreshing lift that transforms these patties from simple to standout,making every bite feel light,lively,and gourmet.Q4: Can I prepare these patties ahead of time?
A4: Yes! You can mix and form the patties several hours before cooking, then cover and refrigerate.For even easier meal prep, they freeze beautifully-just thaw before cooking. The sauce also keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, giving you a swift assembly dinner on busy nights.
Q5: What sides pair best with salmon patties and dill yogurt sauce?
A5: Think fresh and bright-crisp green salads, roasted asparagus, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad complement the dish beautifully. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa pilaf adds substance without overpowering the delicate flavors.Q6: Are these salmon patties kid-friendly?
A6: Definitely! The mild flavor and soft texture make them appealing to kids, and the zesty yogurt sauce can be served on the side if your little ones prefer something plainer. Plus,they’re a fun way to sneak in omega-3s and protein without much fuss.
Q7: how can I make these patties gluten-free?
A7: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. You can also omit the breadcrumbs entirely by adding a bit more egg to help bind the mixture while keeping the patties tender.
Q8: What’s the best cooking method for these salmon patties?
A8: Pan-frying in a bit of olive oil or butter is ideal to achieve that irresistible golden crust. For a lighter version, baking on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) works well too, but you might miss a bit of the crispy, caramelized edges from stovetop cooking.
This Q&A unpacks the flavorful details behind the “Savory Salmon Patties with Zesty Dill Yogurt Sauce” recipe, helping you master every step and customize it to your taste!
Key Takeaways
Bringing together the rich, flaky goodness of salmon with the bright, tangy kick of zesty dill yogurt sauce, these savory salmon patties offer a delicious harmony of flavors that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be vibrant and full of character. So next time you crave something hearty yet light, dive into these patties and let the lively dill sauce be the perfect finishing touch to your culinary creation.Happy cooking!


