Introduction to Salmon Cakes with Mixed Greens and Lemon-Dill Yogurt
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore these salmon cakes with mixed greens and lemon-dill yogurt. They’re not just quick to whip up, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will delight your taste buds. Imagine a crispy, golden cake paired with a refreshing salad and a zesty sauce that brings everything together. This dish is perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply treating yourself after a long day. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Cakes with Mixed Greens and Lemon-Dill Yogurt
These salmon cakes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They come together in just 25 minutes, making them a quick solution for dinner. The combination of crispy salmon cakes and fresh mixed greens is not only delicious but also nutritious. Plus, the lemon-dill yogurt adds a zesty twist that elevates the dish. You’ll love how easy it is to impress your family with this delightful meal!
Ingredients for Salmon Cakes with Mixed Greens and Lemon-Dill Yogurt
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these scrumptious salmon cakes with mixed greens and lemon-dill yogurt. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh salmon: The star of the dish! Cooked and flaked, it provides a rich flavor and healthy protein.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the cakes together. You can use regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs based on your preference.
- Green onions: Chopped for a mild onion flavor that adds freshness to the cakes.
- Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and moisture, making the cakes tender and delicious.
- Egg: A beaten egg acts as a binder, helping the cakes hold their shape while cooking.
- Dijon mustard: Just a teaspoon adds a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and complements the salmon beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste, bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- Mixed greens: A fresh salad base that adds crunch and color to your plate.
- Plain yogurt: The base for the zesty sauce, providing a creamy texture.
- Fresh dill: Chopped dill adds a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the yogurt sauce.
- Lemon juice (for yogurt sauce): A splash of lemon juice in the sauce enhances its brightness.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can swap out the salmon for canned tuna or even use different herbs in the yogurt sauce. The possibilities are endless!
How to Make Salmon Cakes with Mixed Greens and Lemon-Dill Yogurt
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Start by gathering a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Use a fork to gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep some texture in the salmon. This mixture is the heart of your salmon cakes with mixed greens and lemon-dill yogurt, so make sure it’s flavorful and cohesive!
Step 2: Form the Patties
Now it’s time to shape your mixture into patties. With clean hands, scoop out a portion of the salmon mixture and gently form it into a patty about 1 inch thick. Aim for a size that fits comfortably in your palm. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help it hold together. Place the formed patties on a plate, and continue until all the mixture is shaped. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior when cooking!
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Cakes
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on the heat; if it’s too high, the outside may burn before the inside cooks through. Flip them gently using a spatula to maintain their shape. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 4: Make the Lemon-Dill Yogurt Sauce
While the salmon cakes are cooking, let’s whip up the zesty lemon-dill yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, chopped fresh dill, and a splash of lemon juice. Stir until everything is well mixed. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. This sauce is the perfect complement to your salmon cakes, adding a refreshing tang that balances the flavors beautifully. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Now for the fun part—serving! Start with a generous bed of mixed greens on each plate. Place a golden salmon cake on top of the greens, and then drizzle the lemon-dill yogurt sauce over the cake. You can also serve extra sauce on the side for those who love a little more zing. This dish not only looks beautiful but also tastes incredible. Enjoy every bite of your salmon cakes with mixed greens and lemon-dill yogurt!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor; frozen works too, just thaw it properly.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; refrigerate patties for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold together.
- Experiment with herbs; parsley or chives can add a unique twist to the yogurt sauce.
- For extra crunch, try adding finely chopped bell peppers to the salmon mixture.
- Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy plastic or glass bowl works well.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking. If you don’t have one, a regular skillet with a bit more oil will do.
- Spatula: A flat spatula for flipping the salmon cakes without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the salmon mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Swap out dill for fresh basil or cilantro in the yogurt sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace salmon with canned chickpeas or black beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Asian Flair: Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil into the salmon mixture, and serve with a sesame dressing instead of yogurt.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in some crumbled feta or shredded cheese into the salmon mixture for added creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing complement.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
- Add a side of quinoa or couscous for extra texture and heartiness.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh dill for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Salmon Cakes with Mixed Greens and Lemon-Dill Yogurt
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh? Absolutely! Canned salmon is a great time-saver and works perfectly in these salmon cakes. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing.
How do I store leftover salmon cakes? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in a skillet for a quick meal!
Can I freeze the salmon cakes? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties! Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the yogurt in the sauce? If you’re not a fan of yogurt, try using sour cream or even a vegan alternative like cashew cream. Both will add creaminess to the sauce.
How can I make these salmon cakes spicier? For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon mixture. It’ll give your cakes a delightful heat!
Final Thoughts
Making salmon cakes with mixed greens and lemon-dill yogurt is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a joyful experience in the kitchen. The delightful aroma of sizzling salmon cakes fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, from the crispy exterior to the creamy, zesty sauce. This dish not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. I hope you find as much joy in preparing and sharing this recipe as I do. Happy cooking!
Salmon cakes with mixed greens and lemon-dill yogurt delight your taste buds!
Delicious salmon cakes served with a fresh mixed greens salad and a zesty lemon-dill yogurt sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon, cooked and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed greens for serving
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for yogurt sauce)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, green onions, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Cook the salmon cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt, dill, and lemon juice to create the sauce.
- Serve the salmon cakes on a bed of mixed greens with the lemon-dill yogurt sauce drizzled on top.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- These cakes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon cake with greens and sauce
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg

