Name: Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs salmon filet; 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil; 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup almond flour; 1/3 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans); 2 eggs; 1/3 tbsp finely chopped parsley; 2 tbsp dijon mustard; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp sea salt, plus more to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tbsp Frank's red hot buffalo sauce; 1 tbsp coconut aminos; 2 tsp lime juice; 1 tsp paprika

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If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, you have to try this Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe. It combines tender, flaky salmon patties that are crispy on the outside with a luxuriously creamy and flavorful spicy aioli that adds just the right kick. This recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests, balancing wholesome ingredients with a delicious punch of heat and zest. Once you give it a try, these salmon patties with spicy aioli will quickly become one of your treasured go-to meals!

Ingredients You'll Need

A white bowl on a white marbled surface holds six distinct layers of ingredients: a large pile of light beige powder on the left side, a reddish-pink pile of flaky salmon next to it, a small mound of pink salt near the top center, a heap of light brown cooked onions mixed with a grain on the right, two bright yellow raw egg yolks side by side near the middle right, a fresh bunch of chopped green herbs below the powder, and a dollop of pale beige creamy sauce sitting on the salmon at the bottom. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe lies in using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role, whether it’s the natural richness of salmon, the crunch from nuts, or the bright acidity from lemon juice.

Salmon filet (1.5 lbs): The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and tender flakes.
Olive oil or avocado oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing onions and garlic to bring out their sweetness.
Yellow onion, diced (½ medium): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch when cooked.
Garlic cloves, minced (3 total): Delivers aromatic depth, divided between the patties and aioli.
Almond flour (⅓ cup): A gluten-free binder that adds subtle nuttiness and texture.
Chopped nuts - almonds or pecans (⅓ cup): Half mixed in, half to sprinkle on for crunch.
Eggs (2): Bind the mixture so the patties hold together perfectly.
Finely chopped parsley (⅓ tbsp): A fresh herbaceous note to lighten the flavors.
Dijon mustard (2 tbsp): Infuses a gentle tang that complements the salmon.
Lemon juice (¼ cup): Brightens the dish, cutting through the richness beautifully.
Paprika (1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon for aioli): Adds mild warmth and color when used in both patties and sauce.
Sea salt (¼ teaspoon + more to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): Forms the creamy base of the spicy aioli.
Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce (2 tbsp): Brings smoky heat that makes the aioli exciting.
Coconut aminos (1 tbsp): Adds a touch of sweetness and umami depth to the aioli.
Lime juice (2 tsp): Brightens and balances the spicy aioli perfectly.

How to Make Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe

Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Bake the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon filet skin side down, lightly seasoning with salt and pepper. Baking the salmon rather than pan-frying it first helps lock in moisture while keeping it tender and flaky. Depending on the thickness, bake for about 12 to 15 minutes until the fish easily flakes with a fork. Set aside to cool, but keep the oven on if you plan to cook the patties in it.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

While the salmon is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, gently cooking until they turn translucent and fragrant—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Sautéing these ingredients softens their sharpness and amplifies their sweetness, lending wonderful flavor depth to the salmon mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Once the salmon has cooled, flake it into a large mixing bowl, discarding the skin. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the bowl along with almond flour, half of the chopped nuts, eggs, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. This mixture will be moist enough to hold together but packed with texture and flavors.

Step 4: Form the Patties

To shape the patties, scoop the salmon mixture into a ¼ or ⅓ cup measuring cup, packing it in firmly. Transfer the formed patties onto a parchment-lined baking sheet if baking, or directly to the skillet if cooking on the stove. Flatten each patty gently with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining chopped nuts on top for a buttery crunch.

Step 5: Cook the Patties

If baking, place the patties in the oven at 400 degrees for 13 minutes, then switch the oven to broil for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and crisp on top. For stovetop cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the patties for 3 minutes on the first side until beautifully brown, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Both methods yield deliciously crispy exteriors with tender centers.

Step 6: Make the Spicy Aioli

While your patties are cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo sauce, coconut aminos, lime juice, paprika, and a pinch of salt. This spicy aioli is creamy with a perfect balance of tang, heat, and umami, elevating the salmon patties into a standout dish.

How to Serve Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a bright, herbal lift that complements the richness of the salmon patties. A thin slice of lemon or lime wedge on the side offers an optional fresh squeeze of citrus that can brighten each bite even more.

Side Dishes

These salmon patties with spicy aioli pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a light quinoa or couscous salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries for a comforting and balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salmon patties on toasted brioche buns with lettuce and tomato for delicious salmon sliders. Or build a vibrant grain bowl featuring the patties, mixed greens, avocado slices, and a drizzle of the spicy aioli. The versatile nature of this recipe means your presentation can be as casual or fancy as you like!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, allow the salmon patties to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days while maintaining their flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to save them for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Whenever you’re ready, defrost them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the patties crispy when reheating, the oven or a skillet is best. Heat them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or pan-fry gently for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess, especially if you want that crisp outside intact.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh for this Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe?

Absolutely! Canned salmon is a convenient option and works great as a substitute. Just be sure to drain it well and remove any bones before mixing. The patties might be a bit softer but will still taste delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Using almond flour instead of regular flour makes this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure your mustard and other condiments are free from gluten-containing ingredients as well.

Can I make these salmon patties ahead of time and reheat later?

Yes, salmon patties hold up well when made ahead. Cook them fully, then refrigerate or freeze as mentioned. Reheat gently to maintain their crispy texture and serve with fresh spicy aioli for the best experience.

How spicy is the aioli in this recipe?

The aioli has a moderate heat level from Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo sauce balanced by creamy mayo and lime juice. If you want it milder, you can reduce the buffalo sauce. For extra heat, feel free to add more.

Can I bake or fry the patties? Which method is better?

Both methods work wonderfully! Baking is hands-off and yields a juicy patty with a toasty top, while frying creates a crispier crust all around. Choose based on your preference or time constraints—either way, you’ll love the results.

Final Thoughts

This Salmon Patties with Spicy Aioli Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of tender salmon, crunchy nuts, and a vibrant spicy aioli makes every bite exciting. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a recipe you return to again and again, whether for a quick weeknight supper or a special gathering. Go ahead and get cooking—you’re going to love it!

Ingredients You'll Need