Awesome Low Carb Salmon Patties

My grandmother, Nana Elsie, wasn’t much for trendy diets, but she was a whiz at stretching a dollar and making the most of what she had. I remember sitting at her kitchen table, the scent of pan-fried salmon filling the air, as she whipped up these simple patties. They weren’t “low carb” back then, just good, honest food made with love and a can of salmon from the pantry. Even though her version used breadcrumbs, the taste of these patties brings back floods of happy childhood memories.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Low Carb

Ingredients

• 14 ¾ ounces salmon, drained
• ½ cup pork rind (finely ground)
• ¼ cup minced onion
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons parsley flakes
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 2 large beaten eggs
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise

Equipment Needed

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Fork
• Measuring Cups & Spoons
• Frying Pan
• Spatula

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: the drained salmon, finely ground pork rind, minced onion, lemon juice, parsley flakes, minced garlic clove, beaten eggs, and mayonnaise.

2. Using a fork, gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.

3. Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This step is optional, but it allows the patties to firm up, making them easier to handle during cooking.

4. Remove the salmon mixture from the refrigerator. Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick.

5. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil, or cooking spray, to the pan. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the salmon patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

6. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Gently flip the patties with a spatula to ensure even cooking.

7. Remove the cooked salmon patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Pork Rind Perfection: The key to these patties holding together and maintaining a low-carb profile is the finely ground pork rinds. Use a food processor to grind them into a fine powder for the best results. You can also buy pre-ground pork rind crumbs online or in some specialty stores.
• Salmon Selection: Canned salmon is a budget-friendly and convenient option, but fresh cooked salmon can also be used. If using fresh salmon, be sure to remove the skin and bones before flaking it and adding it to the mixture.
• Resting is Key: Allowing the mixture to rest in the refrigerator helps the patties bind together and prevents them from falling apart during cooking. Don’t skip this step!
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked salmon patties can become dry and rubbery. Cook them just until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
• Flavor Boosters: Feel free to add other seasonings to customize the flavor of these patties. A dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or some chopped fresh dill can add a delicious twist.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Awesome Low Carb Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.

• Serve them as a main course with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a creamy coleslaw.
• Top them with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or avocado crema for added richness and flavor.
• Serve them on lettuce wraps or low-carb buns for a satisfying sandwich.
• For a quick and easy lunch, crumble them over a salad or add them to a low-carb soup.

Leftover salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. You can also freeze the cooked patties for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	435.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	192 kcal	44%
Total Fat	21.4 g	32%
Saturated Fat	4.3 g	21%
Cholesterol	287.9 mg	95%
Sodium	387.9 mg	16%
Total Carbohydrate	8.6 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.5 g	2%
Sugars	2.6 g	N/A
Protein	49.8 g	99%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Garden: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of these patties. Fresh dill, chives, or cilantro would all be delicious additions.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative like avocado mayonnaise or cashew cream.
• Nut-Free: If you have a nut allergy, replace the almond flour with an equal amount of sunflower seed flour or coconut flour. Be aware that these substitutions may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the patties.
• Seafood Medley: Substitute some of the salmon with other types of seafood, such as cooked shrimp or flaked cod, for a unique flavor combination.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use canned tuna instead of salmon?
A: Yes, canned tuna can be substituted for salmon in this recipe. Be sure to drain the tuna well before adding it to the mixture. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have pork rinds?
A: If you don’t have pork rinds, you can use almond flour or coconut flour as a substitute. However, the pork rinds help keep the patties low-carb.

Q: Can I bake these salmon patties instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake these patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Q: How can I prevent the patties from falling apart while cooking?
A: Make sure to refrigerate the salmon mixture for at least 30 minutes before forming the patties. This will help them bind together better. Also, be gentle when flipping the patties to avoid breaking them.

Q: Are these salmon patties gluten-free?
A: Yes, these salmon patties are naturally gluten-free, as they do not contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Awesome Low Carb Salmon Patties inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a tasty way to incorporate more salmon into your diet, these patties are sure to please. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and seasonings to create your own signature version. And please, let me know how they turn out! I’m eager to hear your feedback and see your culinary creations. Consider pairing these patties with a crisp cucumber salad or a vibrant lemon-herb aioli for a truly unforgettable dining experience.