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Crispy paleo salmon cakes with lemon aioli on a plate

Crispy pan-fried cakes with lemon herb aioli

Paleo Salmon Cakes

Paleo Salmon Cakes

25 minEasy

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

10 min

Total Time

25 min

Servings

4

8 cakes

Difficulty

Easy

Cost

Budget

$

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Paleo Salmon Cakes

Crispy pan-fried cakes with lemon herb aioli

Golden salmon cakes made with canned wild salmon, almond flour, and fresh herbs, pan-fried until crispy outside and moist inside. Served with a dairy-free lemon herb aioli.

15m

Prep Time

10m

Cook Time

25m

Total Time

4

Servings

Easy

Difficulty

Budget $

Cost

Main CourseGluten-FreeDairy-FreePaleoHealthy
Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen

March 31, 2025(Updated April 13, 2026)

Canned salmon makes these cakes an affordable weeknight dinner that comes together in minutes. The almond flour binding keeps them paleo while creating a satisfying golden crust.

Why This Recipe Works

Draining the canned salmon well and using just enough binder allows the cakes to hold their shape without becoming bready. A hot skillet with plenty of oil ensures a crispy exterior.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (6 oz each) wild-caught salmon, drained
  • 1/3 cup almond flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil, salt and pepper
PrecisionUtility

Test Kitchen Pick

Thermometer

Helpful Tool

Why a thermometer helps here

This is the kind of recipe where doneness changes the result fast. A quick thermometer helps you pull it at the right moment instead of guessing.

The easiest upgrade here is accuracy, not another pan.

  • Makes doneness more repeatable
  • Helps avoid dry or overcooked protein

If you cook meat or fish regularly, an instant-read thermometer gets used constantly.

Shop thermometer options for this recipe

Instructions

  1. 1

    Drain salmon thoroughly and flake into a bowl, removing any bones and skin.

  2. 2

    Mix in almond flour, egg, dill, lemon zest, half the lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  3. 3

    Form into 8 patties about 1/2-inch thick. Refrigerate 10 minutes to firm up.

  4. 4

    Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-fry cakes 3-4 minutes per side until golden.

  5. 5

    Serve with remaining lemon juice squeezed over top and your favorite paleo aioli.

Serving Suggestions

Ways to Serve This Dish

  • Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal

  • Pair with your favorite grain or bread on the side

  • Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation

Substitutions

Canned salmonCanned tuna

Works identically with a different flavor profile

Almond flourCassava flour

Nut-free and creates a slightly crispier crust

Tips & Storage

Pro Tips

  • Chilling the patties before frying helps them hold together in the pan.

  • Press patties firmly when forming—loose cakes tend to fall apart during cooking.

Storage

Refrigerate cooked cakes for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes to re-crisp.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (75mg) · 4 servings

Calories220
LowModerateHigh

A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet

Protein12g
Carbohydrates2g
Fat24g
Fiber380mg
Sugar0g
Sodium1g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh salmon?
Yes, cook and flake 12 oz of fresh salmon. Canned is just faster and more affordable.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, but they will not be as crispy.

Explore More

More Main CourseGluten-Free RecipesDairy-Free RecipesPaleo RecipesHealthy RecipesStovetop Recipes
Sarah Chen

About Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.

View all recipes →

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