Easy Harissa Orange Salmon Patties

Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love These Easy Salmon Patties
• The Secret to Incredibly Flavorful, Easy Recipes
• Beyond the Basics: Versatility is Key
• My Top Tips for Perfect Patties Every Time
• Ideas for Serving Your Salmon Patties
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Key Takeaways
• The Recipe: Easy Harissa Orange Salmon Patties
• Notes & Tips

Key Takeaways

These Easy Harissa Orange Salmon Patties are a game-changer for busy weeknights. Ready in just 30 minutes, they transform simple ingredients into a meal that’s bursting with smoky, citrusy flavor. This recipe is a fantastic solution for using leftover salmon and offers endless versatility, whether you serve them on greens, in a bun, or as an appetizer.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Salmon Patties

Finding truly easy recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor can feel like a challenge. As Patricia from Patricia Universe, I’m always on the hunt for those perfect weeknight dishes. These salmon patties are exactly that—a reliable, quick dinner idea that comes together with minimal fuss but delivers maximum taste. They are the kind of easy recipes you’ll find yourself turning to again and again.

What sets them apart is their incredible adaptability. Whether you have fresh salmon fillets, last night’s grilled salmon, or a trusty can from your pantry, this recipe works beautifully. The combination of smoky harissa and bright orange creates a sophisticated flavor profile that feels gourmet, yet the method remains wonderfully simple. It’s the ideal way to enjoy a healthy, protein-packed meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The Secret to Incredibly Flavorful, Easy Recipes

The magic here is all in the sauce—or in this case, the paste and zest. Harissa, a North African chili paste, brings a deep, complex heat and smokiness that pairs unexpectedly well with the sweet acidity of fresh orange. This dynamic duo lifts the simple salmon from everyday to extraordinary. It’s a prime example of how a couple of powerful ingredients can elevate a basic concept into something special, making it one of my favorite quick dinner ideas to share.

For those new to harissa, start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste. The orange zest is non-negotiable—it provides an intense citrus aroma that the juice alone can’t match. Together, they ensure every bite is anything but boring.

Beyond the Basics: Versatility is Key

One of the best things about simple, foundational recipes like this is their versatility. These patties are fantastic as the main event on a salad or in a sandwich, but don’t stop there. Consider making them smaller for elegant sliders at a party, or flake the salmon more finely for a tasty fish cake appetizer. This adaptability makes it a cornerstone healthy salmon recipe for any cook’s repertoire.

My Top Tips for Perfect Patties Every Time

To ensure your patties are flawless, don’t skip the chilling step. Letting the formed patties rest in the fridge for 15 minutes firms them up, preventing them from falling apart in the pan. When mixing, use a gentle hand. Overworking the mixture can make the patties dense. And for a truly crispy exterior without deep frying, a well-heated pan and a confident flip are your best friends. For an even easier cleanup, try the air fryer method mentioned in the notes—it yields a wonderfully crisp result with less oil.

Ideas for Serving Your Salmon Patties

The bright, creamy orange yogurt sauce is the perfect companion, cutting through the richness of the salmon. For a light meal, serve the patties on a bed of peppery arugula with a simple lemon vinaigrette. To make it heartier, tuck them into a soft brioche bun with crisp lettuce, sliced tomato, and an extra swipe of sauce. They also pair wonderfully with simple sides like roasted asparagus, herbed quinoa, or sweet potato fries. This gluten free dinner option is as flexible as it is delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned salmon? Absolutely! Just be sure to drain it very well and remove any large bones or skin for the best texture.

What can I substitute for harissa? In a pinch, you can use another chili paste like sriracha mixed with a bit of smoked paprika, though the flavor will be different. For a completely different but tasty twist, try pesto.

Can I bake these instead of pan-frying? Yes! Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.

How do I store leftovers? Cooked patties will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness.

Notes & Tips

For a crispier crust, you can use an air fryer: spray patties with oil and cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. The patty mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking, making this a perfect 30 minute meal prep option. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with 1 tablespoon of harissa and add more after tasting the mixture. For a dairy-free option, substitute the Greek yogurt in the sauce with a plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt.

Easy Harissa Orange Salmon Patties

Transform leftover salmon or canned salmon into crispy, flavorful patties in just 30 minutes. These Harissa Orange Salmon Patties are an easy, healthy recipe perfect for a quick dinner. They’re packed with protein, gluten-free, and bursting with smoky, citrusy flavor.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time15 minutes mins

Total Time30 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American Fusion

Keywords: 30 minute meal, easy salmon patties, gluten free dinner, harissa orange sauce, healthy salmon recipe, quick dinner idea

Servings: 4 servings

Author: Patricia

Ingredients

For the Patties

• 1 lb (450g) cooked salmon, flaked (freshly cooked, leftover, or canned, well-drained)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 3 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 tbsp fresh orange zest
• 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Orange Yogurt Sauce

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp harissa paste
• 1/2 tsp orange zest
• Pinch of salt

For Cooking & Serving

• 2-3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or dill)
• Mixed greens or buns (for serving)

Instructions

Make the Patties

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, panko, egg, green onions, parsley, harissa paste, orange zest, orange juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, or the patties may become dense.
3. Form the mixture into 4-6 equal-sized patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This helps the patties hold their shape during cooking.

Make the Sauce

1. While the patties chill, make the orange yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, orange juice, harissa paste, orange zest, and salt until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.

Cook the Patties

1. Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot (a breadcrumb sizzles), carefully add the patties. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
4. Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serve

1. Serve the warm salmon patties with a dollop of the orange yogurt sauce, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs.
2. Enjoy them over a bed of mixed greens for a light meal or in a bun for a delicious sandwich.

Notes

For a crispier crust, you can use an air fryer: spray patties with oil and cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. The patty mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking.