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Homemade Air Fryer Salmon Cakes photo

Air Fryer Salmon Cakes

These Air Fryer Salmon Cakes are crispy, flavorful, and healthy! Perfectly seasoned, easy to make, and a guilt-free way to enjoy salmon any day.
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Grater or microplane
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Cooking spray

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb cooked salmon flaked into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup green onions chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper adjust to taste
  • 2 large eggs slightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup sour cream keeps the cakes moist and tender
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens and balances the flavors
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce optional, for a little spicy kick
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest adds a fragrant citrus note
  • oil spray to lightly coat the salmon cakes before air frying

Instructions
 

  • Start with 1 pound of cooked salmon, flaked into small pieces. Remove any skin or bones for best texture.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped green onions, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Add Italian herbs, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to blend evenly.
  • Add slightly beaten eggs, sour cream, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), and lemon zest to the bowl. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
  • Gently fold in flaked salmon and 1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs. The mixture should be moist but hold together when formed. Add more Panko if too wet.
  • Divide mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a patty about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Place on a plate or tray.
  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray both sides of each salmon cake with oil spray.
  • Arrange salmon cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket without touching. Cook 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
  • Remove salmon cakes and serve warm. Enjoy alone or with salad, lemon, or dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Substitute Panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • Omit hot sauce for a milder flavor or replace with mild paprika for color.
  • Make patties ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Store cooked cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze uncooked patties and cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Keyword Air Fryer, Easy, Gluten-Free Option, Healthy, Quick, Seafood