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If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s quick, wholesome, and positively brimming with flavor, let me introduce you to the Salmon Patties with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe. This recipe pairs tender, flaky salmon patties with a bright, tangy yogurt sauce that’s bursting with fresh lemon and dill. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and herbaceous notes, making it a beloved meal you’ll want to keep coming back to. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a casual lunch with friends, this dish never fails to impress while remaining incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients You'll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of fresh and pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the crispy panko that gives the patties their delightful crunch to the fresh dill and lemon that brighten the sauce and elevate the entire experience.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): For sautéing vegetables and crisping patties without overpowering the flavors.
- Yellow onion (½ cup, finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and a tender texture once sautéed.
- Red bell pepper (½ cup, finely chopped): Brings a pop of color and a mild, fresh crunch.
- Canned salmon (15 ounces, drained): The star ingredient providing rich, flaky protein with minimal prep.
- Panko bread crumbs (½ cup): Essential for binding and giving a light, crispy crust.
- Large egg (1, lightly beaten): Helps hold all the ingredients together perfectly.
- Plain Greek yogurt (¼ cup): Adds creaminess to the patties themselves and works beautifully in the sauce.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Offers a fresh, grassy note to complement the salmon.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon for patties, plus 4 teaspoons for sauce): Injects brightness and a subtle zing.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides a gentle tang and depth of flavor.
- Fresh dill (2 teaspoons for patties, plus 2 teaspoons for sauce, chopped): The herbaceous magic that pairs perfectly with salmon.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds mild warmth and complexity without overpowering.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon) and black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Basic seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the patties.
How to Make Salmon Patties with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped yellow onion and red bell pepper and cook them gently until they soften, about 3 minutes. This step lets the natural sweetness of the veggies come through, forming a flavorful base for your salmon patties. Once softened, remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Patty Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the canned salmon (make sure it’s well-drained so the patties aren’t soggy), the sautéed onion and bell pepper, panko bread crumbs, lightly beaten egg, and Greek yogurt. Then add in the fresh parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything until just combined—you want to keep the texture light and flaky, not mushy.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Using about one-third cup of the salmon mixture for each patty, scoop a portion, roll it gently into a ball, then flatten it to roughly a half-inch thickness. You should end up with 8 to 10 patties. Place them on a sheet of parchment paper to keep things neat and easy to handle.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy skillet—cast iron is ideal—for that golden crust. Place half the patties in the pan and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. Keep an eye on the heat and adjust if the patties brown too quickly to avoid burning. Add the last tablespoon of oil and cook the remaining patties with the same care.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce
While the patties are cooking, make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and chopped dill. This sauce is refreshingly tangy and herb-filled, providing the perfect cool contrast to the warm, crispy salmon patties.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the golden salmon patties alongside a generous dollop of the lemon dill yogurt sauce and get ready to savor the delightful combination of textures and flavors. This is truly one of those recipes that feels elegant but comes together effortlessly.
How to Serve Salmon Patties with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh dill or finely chopped parsley on top elevates the dish visually and adds an extra burst of fresh flavor. A light lemon wedge squeezed over the patties just before serving can brighten each bite beautifully.
Side Dishes
Salmon patties are incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette keeps things light and refreshing. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans complement the patties nicely. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf create a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, serve the salmon patties as slider sandwiches with crisp lettuce and tomato on mini buns, topped with a smear of the lemon dill yogurt sauce. Another fun option is to place patties on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with extra sauce for a lovely, elegant lunch presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon patties keep well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled to room temperature before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, place the uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to your cooking time.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat cooked salmon patties in a skillet over medium heat to keep the exterior crispy. Alternatively, warming gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes works well. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make them a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh salmon can be cooked and flaked before mixing with the other ingredients. Just be sure it’s cooled completely before combining with the rest of the mixture for the best patties.
Is the lemon dill yogurt sauce necessary, or can I substitute something else?
The yogurt sauce is a classic companion, adding brightness and creaminess, but you can swap it for tartar sauce, a spicy aioli, or even a simple squeeze of lemon if preferred.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and double-check any other ingredients for gluten content.
How do I prevent the salmon patties from falling apart during cooking?
Ensuring the salmon is well-drained and mixing the ingredients gently but thoroughly is key. The egg and panko help bind everything, so be sure not to skip them and cook the patties with care over medium heat.
Can I prepare the salmon patties mixture ahead of time?
You can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Shape and cook the patties when you’re ready to serve, which helps retain freshness and improve texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying and comforting about these Salmon Patties with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe. They bring together bold flavors, fresh herbs, and a lovely crisp texture that makes every bite a joy. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a go—it’s quick, reliable, and perfect for any day you want to treat yourself to a delicious and wholesome meal. Happy cooking!
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Salmon Patties with Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
These Salmon Patties are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring canned salmon mixed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy yogurt dill sauce. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, served with a refreshing, creamy sauce.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (8-10 patties)
Ingredients
Salmon Patties
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- ½ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 15 ounces canned salmon (drained)
- ½ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise or sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Yogurt Dill Sauce (Optional)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and red bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix Patties Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained canned salmon with the sautéed onion and bell pepper, panko bread crumbs, lightly beaten egg, Greek yogurt, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape Patties: Using about one-third cup of the salmon mixture per patty, shape the mixture into 8-10 patties approximately ½-inch thick. First, form each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a patty shape. Place the patties on a sheet of parchment paper to prepare for cooking.
- Cook Patties: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy skillet over medium heat. Add half of the salmon patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. If the outsides brown too quickly, reduce the heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil before cooking the rest of the patties in the same manner.
- Make Yogurt Dill Sauce (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and chopped dill until smooth. This sauce pairs perfectly with the salmon patties.
- Serve: Serve the salmon patties warm with the yogurt dill sauce or enjoy them as desired, making a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute plain Greek yogurt in the patties with mayonnaise or sour cream if preferred.
- Be sure to drain the canned salmon well to avoid overly wet patties.
- If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used but in smaller quantities.
- Adjust cooking heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring patties are cooked through.
- The yogurt dill sauce is optional but adds a fresh, tangy complement to the patties.
- These patties can be served on their own, in a sandwich, or with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat

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