Classic Salmon Patties (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
02 - 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
03 - 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional but adds nice color)
04 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
05 - 1 large egg, beaten

→ Seasonings & Binders

06 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
08 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra tang)
09 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ For Cooking & Serving

12 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
13 - Fresh lemon wedges for serving

# Instructions:

01 - In a big bowl, combine your flaked salmon (pick out any large bones if you want), chopped onion, bell pepper, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, mayo, lemon juice, mustard, and all your seasonings. Mix until everything's well combined.
02 - Divide your mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2 inch thick. They should hold together nicely.
03 - Heat up your vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it's nice and hot but not smoking.
04 - Carefully place your patties in the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they're golden brown and crispy. Don't crowd the pan - cook in batches if needed.
05 - Let the patties drain on paper towels for a minute, then serve them up hot with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over top.

# Notes:

01 - Use either breadcrumbs or crushed crackers - both work great
02 - Can be made ahead and refrigerated before cooking
03 - Try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor