# Salmon Croquettes: A Tasty Meal for the Family
Salmon croquettes present a crunchy, flavorful method to transform fresh or canned salmon into a simple, family-friendly dish. Baked to a golden finish and infused with herbs, lemon, and Dijon mustard, they are soft on the inside and boast a wonderfully crisp outside.
## Highlights of Holly’s Recipe: Salmon Croquettes
– **Flavor:** These offer a rich, buttery taste complemented by lively lemon, fresh herbs, and a hint of tang from Dijon mustard, all encased in a crisp golden crust.
– **Why Create It:** Utilizing canned or leftover salmon, this recipe provides a complete meal with everyday ingredients from your fridge and pantry.
– **Skill Level:** This straightforward recipe can be prepared without the need for intricate shaping or breading techniques.
– **Serving Suggestions:** Pair with tartar sauce and preferred sides, such as coleslaw, roasted veggies, and a basic green salad.
**Total Time:** 30 minutes
**Servings:** 9 Patties
**Cooking Method:** Pan-fried
## Ingredient Insights
– **Salmon:** Opt for well-drained canned pink salmon or cooked flaked salmon. Remove significant skin or bone pieces, then gently shred the salmon into small flakes without overmixing or crushing.
– **Panko Breadcrumbs:** Panko adds a lighter texture and a crispy, golden exterior. Regular breadcrumbs can work but should be added gradually as they absorb moisture in a different manner.
– **Chives:** Fresh chives contribute a mild onion essence without large chunks. For a faster alternative, substitute with thinly sliced green onions or onion powder.
– **Red Bell Pepper:** Dice the bell pepper finely to ensure it softens quickly and aids in binding the patties. Any color of bell pepper can be swapped in.
– **Mayonnaise:** Mayonnaise provides moisture and richness, keeping the croquettes tender. Plain Greek yogurt can be used for a slightly tangier taste.
## Steps to Prepare Salmon Croquettes
1. Carefully mix the ingredients in a bowl (full recipe below).
2. Shape into patties and bake until lightly browned and fully cooked.
### Tips for Ideal Salmon Croquettes
– **Drain the Canned Salmon:** Ensure it is thoroughly drained to prevent excess liquid from making the patties soggy or hard to shape.
– **Avoid Overmixing:** Stir gently and only until just blended. Excessive mixing can break down the salmon and create dense centers.
– **Chop Finely:** Cut the pepper, garlic, and herbs into small pieces. Larger pieces can create weak points around the edges.
– **Resting Period:** Allow the formed patties to chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes. Chilling helps the crumbs absorb moisture.
– **Flip When Golden:** Turn the fried croquettes only after the first side is golden and easily lifts from the pan. A thin, wide spatula works best.
## Preserve Every Last Croquette
– **Storing:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place parchment between layers to keep the crust intact.
– **Reheating:** Heat in a lightly oiled skillet over medium until hot, or warm in a 375°F oven or air fryer until crispy outside.
– **Freezing Cooked Patties:** Place cooked croquettes on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then move to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
– **Freezing Uncooked Patties:** Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer container once solid. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator prior to cooking.
## Additional Crispy Seafood Favorites
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### Recipe for Salmon Croquettes
**Servings:** 9
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 30 minutes
#### Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix flaked salmon, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, chives, red bell pepper, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Combine gently.
3. Using a slightly heaping ¼ cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture and form into 9 patties, pressing them together gently yet firmly to maintain their shape during baking.
4. Arrange the salmon croquettes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 13 to 15 minutes, or until lightly browned and cooked through.
### Nutritional Information (per patty)
– **Calories:** 155
– **Carbohydrates:** 5g
– **Protein:** 9g
– **Fat:** 10g
– **Saturated Fat:** 2g