If you are craving a dish that combines wholesome flavors with a satisfying crunch, the Crispy Salmon Patties with Spicy Dill-Garlic Dip Recipe is going to become your new favorite. These salmon patties deliver a perfect balance of tender, flaky fish and crispy edges kissed by golden olive oil. Paired with a zesty, creamy dill-garlic dip that has just the right amount of spice, this recipe feels both comforting and a little indulgent. Whether you’re after a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dish is simple, flavorful, and irresistibly good.
Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this recipe are refreshingly simple but absolutely essential for nailing the perfect texture, flavor, and color. Each component works harmoniously—from the tender salmon to the fragrant herbs and that zingy dip—making these patties a standout on your plate.
- 6-ounce canned or cooked salmon: Make sure to drain well; this is the star protein that gives the patties their rich, seafood goodness.
- 1/2 cup almond flour: A great low-carb binder that also adds a lovely nuttiness and helps achieve that crispy crust.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness so the patties stay juicy inside.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon table salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite pop.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme: A subtle herbaceous note that complements the salmon beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For frying, creating that irresistible golden crispness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Base for the dip, lending creaminess with a little tang.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill: Fresh and bright, dill is pivotal in the dip’s fresh flavor profile.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings boldness and aromatic punch to the dip.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne: Provides a subtle yet lively spiciness in the dip.
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt: Balances flavors in the dip.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Complements the cayenne and garlic for a well-rounded dip.
How to Make Crispy Salmon Patties with Spicy Dill-Garlic Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dip and Salmon
Start by mixing all the spices, sour cream, dill, and garlic for the spicy dill-garlic dip in a bowl until smooth and evenly combined. Pop it into the refrigerator to chill and let the flavors meld while you work on the patties. Next, drain your salmon thoroughly to remove any excess liquid, discard bones and skin as needed, and pat the fish dry with paper towels to ensure a nice crispy crust later.
Step 2: Make the Patties
Combine the salmon with almond flour, mayonnaise, egg, salt, thyme, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir well, breaking up any big lumps of salmon, until the mixture comes together. Then divide into five equal portions and place each on a nonstick surface like parchment paper. Using a spatula, flatten each ball gently into a patty around 2 to 3 inches wide. This size will cook through evenly without drying out.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a generously sized nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering hot. Carefully lower each patty into the pan, making sure they don’t touch so they crisp up beautifully all around. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on the first side until golden brown and crisp, then flip gently and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes on the other side. Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil and keep that perfect crunch.
How to Serve Crispy Salmon Patties with Spicy Dill-Garlic Dip Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance both flavor and appearance, add a dollop of the spicy dill-garlic dip right on top of each warm patty along with a sprinkle of fresh dill or a light drizzle of lemon juice. This adds a fresh, herbal note and a hint of brightness that keeps the dish lively and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with crisp, refreshing sides like a zesty cucumber salad, roasted asparagus, or even some lightly seasoned sweet potato fries. These accompaniments balance the richness of the salmon patties while keeping the meal vibrant and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or mix things up, try serving the salmon patties as sliders on mini buns with crisp lettuce and pickles, or turn them into a protein-packed salad topping drizzled with the spicy dill-garlic dip. Either way, this recipe adapts beautifully to your entertaining style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover salmon patties in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, perfect for a quick meal the next day without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Freezing
These patties freeze surprisingly well! Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep delicious for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that original crispiness, reheating in a nonstick skillet over medium heat is best—about 3 to 4 minutes per side should do. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the texture; however, a quick zap followed by a sear in a hot pan also works if you are short on time.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Freshly cooked salmon works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s cooked and measured to about 6 ounces for the perfect patty texture. You might find the flavor even more delicate with fresh salmon.
Is almond flour necessary or can I substitute it?
Almond flour gives these patties their unique crispiness and nutty flavor while keeping the carb count low. You can swap it with almond meal if that’s what you have. Coconut flour or other flours might change the texture due to different absorbency, so I recommend sticking with almond flour for best results.
How spicy is the dill-garlic dip?
The dip has a nice kick from cayenne pepper but is balanced by the creamy sour cream and fresh dill. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the cayenne or omit it entirely for a mellow, herby dip.
Can I prepare the spicy dill-garlic dip ahead of time?
Yes, the dip can be made up to one day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors deepen, making it taste even better alongside the freshly fried salmon patties.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe makes five salmon patties, great as an appetizer for about five people or a main dish for two to three. Feel free to double it if you’re feeding a crowd!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about sinking your teeth into a crispy salmon patty paired with a vibrant, spicy dill-garlic dip. This Crispy Salmon Patties with Spicy Dill-Garlic Dip Recipe is straightforward, packed with flavor, and perfect for almost any occasion. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just discover your new go-to seafood dish that everyone will ask for again and again.
PrintCrispy Salmon Patties with Spicy Dill-Garlic Dip Recipe
These crispy and flavorful Salmon Patties are made with canned or freshly cooked salmon, almond flour, and a blend of seasonings. Perfectly pan-fried to golden brown perfection and served with a zesty spicy dill-garlic dip, they make a delicious appetizer or main course that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5 patties (serves 2 to 5 depending on serving size)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Salmon Patties:
- 6-ounce can salmon or cooked salmon
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon table salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Frying:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spicy Dill-Garlic Dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Dip & Salmon: Stir together all dill-garlic dip ingredients until well combined; cover and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld. Drain the salmon can, discard any bones and skin, and pat the salmon meat dry with paper towels. Use a digital food scale to measure exactly 6 ounces of salmon for accurate portioning.
- Make Patties: In a large bowl, combine all salmon patty ingredients, stirring until well-mixed and breaking apart any large chunks of salmon. Divide the mixture into 5 equal-sized balls and place them on a nonstick surface such as parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Flatten each ball into a 2 to 3 inch wide patty using a turner spatula.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat until hot. Gently lower the patties into the skillet one at a time, spacing them evenly. Tilt the pan to ensure the oil covers all surfaces of the patties. Fry the patties until browned and crispy on the bottom, about 5 to 6 minutes. Carefully flip and cook the other side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Place the salmon patties on serving plates and top each with a dollop of the prepared dill-garlic dip. Serve the remaining dip on the side for dipping. Enjoy the patties hot and crispy for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Salmon: This recipe uses canned wild salmon or freshly cooked salmon. If using fresh salmon, pan sear or pressure cook to replace canned options.
- Almond Flour: Use blanched almond flour for best texture and absorbency; almond meal is a suitable alternative. Avoid substituting with coconut or other flours due to texture differences.
- Measuring Salmon: Measure 6 ounces of salmon precisely with a food scale to maintain recipe balance and nutrition accuracy.
- Large Pan: Use a nonstick pan wide enough to fit all five patties simultaneously without crowding. Cook in batches if your pan is smaller.
- Serving: These salmon patties are great as an appetizer for five people or as a main dish for 2 to 3. The tangy dip complements them perfectly and can be made a day ahead.
- Nutrition: The provided nutrition information includes both the salmon patties and the spicy dill-garlic dip.
