Name: Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-5 potatoes (about 3 cups mashed potatoes); 450g (2 cups) canned or fresh cooked salmon, skin and bones removed; 1 egg; 1 lemon, juice and zest; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 2 tbsp chopped parsley or dill; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying); 125ml (1/2 cup) Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 1 clove garlic, pressed or minced; 1 tsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 57 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavors, the Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. These golden, crispy salmon cakes paired with a tangy, creamy yogurt sauce are incredibly satisfying and bring together the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something special, this recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both elegant and thoroughly homey.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image is divided into four parts showing different stages of making salmon patties. The first part shows a large metal bowl with a mix of ingredients containing raw salmon pieces, an egg yolk, green herbs, and some white powder, all placed on a white marbled surface. The second part shows six round salmon patties placed on a white marbled surface with some white powder sprinkled around them, showing a mix of pink salmon and green herbs. The third part shows six uncooked salmon patties arranged inside a black air fryer basket. The last part shows six cooked salmon patties in the same basket, with a golden-brown crispy surface and grill marks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays an important role — from the tender mashed potatoes that hold everything together to the fresh herbs that wake up the flavor with every bite.

Potatoes (4-5, or 3 cups mashed): Provide a creamy, binding base that makes the salmon cakes soft yet sturdy.
Salmon (450g / 2 cups, canned or fresh cooked): The star of the show, delivering that rich, moist fish flavor packed with protein.
Egg (1): Acts as a natural binder, keeping the cakes perfectly shaped while frying.
Lemon juice and zest (1 lemon): Adds fresh brightness that cuts through the richness, lifting the dish.
Flour (1 tbsp plus extra for dusting): Helps bind the ingredients and creates a light coating for crispiness when fried.
Parsley or dill (2 tbsp): Brings a burst of greenery and fresh herbal notes that compliment the salmon beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used for frying to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
Greek yogurt (125ml / 1/2 cup): Forms the creamy, tangy base of the sauce.
Chives (1 tbsp): Adds mild oniony flavor and a lovely pop of green color to the sauce.
Garlic (1 clove, pressed): Provides a subtle, aromatic zing without overpowering the freshness.
Lemon juice (1 tsp for sauce): Gives the sauce a delicate citrus zing that perfectly pairs with salmon.

How to Make Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Cake Mixture

Begin by combining the mashed potatoes and salmon in a large bowl, making sure to remove any skin or bones—this keeps the texture smooth and pleasant. Crack an egg into the mixture, then grate lemon zest and squeeze in the lemon juice for that bright, fresh lift. Add finely chopped parsley or dill and a tablespoon of flour to help bind everything together. Season with salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a cohesive mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Salmon Cakes

Use an ice cream scoop or spoon to portion out the mixture evenly; this helps your salmon cakes cook at the same rate and look uniform. Roll each portion lightly in extra flour on a dusted surface, then gently flatten to create patties about half an inch thick. This flour coating not only assists in forming a satisfying crust but helps prevent sticking during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon Cakes

Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon cakes until they turn beautifully golden and crispy on the outside—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. If you prefer a lighter option, try air frying: preheat your air fryer to 240C/500F, spray the patties with oil, and cook them in batches for 8-9 minutes until crisp. Whichever method you choose, keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Make the Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the cakes cook, whip up the sauce by combining Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped chives, and pressed garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the vibrant flavors to meld, creating a luscious, refreshing complement to the warm salmon cakes.

How to Serve Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

The image shows two thick pieces of a salmon cake, broken apart to reveal the inside layers. The outside layer is golden brown and crispy, while the inside is soft and creamy with chunks of pink salmon mixed with white potatoes and small green herbs. Behind the salmon cakes are yellow lemon wedges, and to the side is a white bowl with a creamy white dipping sauce that has small green and black specks. The food is placed on a white marbled surface with a silver fork visible on the left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes add both color and contrast to your salmon cakes. Sprinkle extra chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving for a pop of greenery. Thin lemon wedges on the side bring a zesty burst that guests can squeeze on top, brightening each bite even more.

Side Dishes

Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe shine when paired with light and crisp sides. Consider a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus spears, or even a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the cakes and keep the meal feeling fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve the salmon cakes on small plates with a dollop of the yogurt sauce on the side or drizzled on top. Stack them with thin slices of avocado or cucumber for added texture and visual appeal, or create mini sliders using slider buns and your favorite greens for a perfectly portable party appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover salmon cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the yogurt sauce separate until ready to serve to preserve its freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked salmon cakes by shaping them and placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe anytime without hassle.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed salmon cakes in a hot skillet with a little oil to restore their crispy exterior. You can also warm them gently in an oven set at 180C/350F for about 10 minutes. Reheat the yogurt sauce separately and give it a quick stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh salmon is a fantastic choice and will give you a richer taste and more vibrant texture. Just make sure to cook and flake the salmon before mixing it into the potatoes.

What can I do if I don’t have mashed potatoes ready?

No worries. Simply boil your potatoes until tender, mash them while still warm, and proceed with the recipe. Freshly mashed potatoes make the cakes extra fluffy and delicious.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or even a bit of cornstarch. Just keep an eye on the texture to ensure the cakes hold together well.

Can I prepare the salmon cakes mixture ahead of time?

Definitely. You can mix the ingredients and refrigerate the mixture for up to an hour before shaping and cooking. This can help the cakes firm up and make handling easier.

What about cooking the salmon cakes without frying?

The air fryer method works brilliantly and results in a crispy exterior with less oil. You could also bake them in the oven, but the texture may be a bit softer compared to frying or air frying.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe enough—it’s comfort food elevated with fresh herbs and a bright, tangy sauce. Whether it’s a busy night or a special occasion, these cakes come together easily and make every bite feel like a little celebration. Give them a try, and I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!

Salmon Cakes with Chive and Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need