Are you on a ketogenic diet and looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle? Look no further than keto salmon patties!
These savory patties are not only packed with flavor but also rich in healthy fats and protein, making them an ideal option for anyone on a keto diet.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe for making the perfect keto salmon patties, provide tips on how to customize them, and share ideas for side dishes that complement this nutritious dish.
Why Keto Salmon Patties?
Keto salmon patties are an excellent addition to your ketogenic meal plan for several reasons:
- Low in Carbs: With only a few grams of net carbs per serving, these patties help keep you within your daily carb limits, ensuring you stay in ketosis.
- High in Healthy Fats: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health. The additional fats used in the recipe, such as olive oil or avocado oil, further boost the fat content.
- Protein-Packed: Each patty provides a good amount of protein, which is crucial for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall health.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients for Keto Salmon Patties
To make keto salmon patties, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Canned or Fresh Salmon (14 oz): Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it tends to have a better nutritional profile.
- Almond Flour (1/2 cup): A low-carb alternative to breadcrumbs, almond flour helps bind the patties and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- Eggs (2 large): Eggs are essential for binding the patties together.
- Green Onions (1/4 cup, finely chopped): These add a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): For a burst of freshness and color.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp): Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a robust and aromatic flavor.
- Lemon Zest (1 tsp): Adds a zesty brightness that complements the richness of the salmon.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
- Olive Oil or Avocado Oil (for frying): Choose a healthy oil with a high smoke point for frying the patties.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- If using canned salmon, drain it well and flake it with a fork. Remove any bones or skin. If using fresh salmon, cook it first (bake, grill, or pan-sear), then flake it into small pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, almond flour, eggs, green onions, parsley, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to form into patties.
Step 3: Form the Patties
- Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions (depending on your preferred size) and shape each portion into a round patty, about 1/2-inch thick.
Step 4: Fry the Patties
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil or avocado oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite keto-friendly sides, such as a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or avocado slices.
Tips for Perfect Keto Salmon Patties
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the salmon mixture can lead to tough patties. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more almond flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit of mayonnaise or an extra egg.
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: This helps prevent the patties from sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep a breeze!
- Freezing: These patties freeze well. Simply cook them as directed, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
Serving Suggestions
While keto salmon patties are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal:
- Avocado Salad: A simple avocado salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavor of the patties.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative to traditional rice, serve the patties over cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs and spices.
- Zucchini Noodles: Toss zucchini noodles in olive oil and garlic for a light, keto-friendly side dish.
- Keto Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw made with a keto-friendly dressing adds crunch and contrast to the soft patties.
- Garlic Butter Asparagus: Roasted asparagus with garlic butter pairs beautifully with the salmon.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one keto salmon patty (based on a recipe yielding 8 patties):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 15g
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
These salmon patties are not only satisfying but also perfectly aligned with keto macros, ensuring you stay within your daily carb and fat goals while enjoying a delicious meal.
Conclusion
Keto salmon patties are a versatile, flavorful, and nutritious option for anyone following a low-carb diet. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a simple way to enjoy the benefits of salmon in a convenient patty form. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, these patties are sure to become a staple in your keto meal rotation. Serve them with your favorite keto sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and aligned with your health goals. Happy cooking!