Salmon cakes with bell pepper and lemon yogurt are a flavorful, nutritious, and heart-healthy alternative to traditional fried fish patties.
They bring together the richness of salmon, the slight crunch of bell peppers, and the tangy brightness of Greek yogurt with lemon.
This dish is ideal for anyone following a balanced diet, particularly those looking for DASH diet-friendly meals that support heart health and overall wellness.
A Heart-Healthy Twist on a Classic Dish
Traditional seafood cakes, such as crab cakes, are often fried in excessive oil and made with high-calorie ingredients. This version of salmon cakes, however, takes a healthier approach without sacrificing flavor.
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports heart health and reduces inflammation. The use of whole-wheat bread crumbs adds fiber, and Greek yogurt in place of heavier condiments keeps the dish light while providing gut-friendly probiotics.
The DASH diet, which focuses on reducing sodium and increasing nutrient-dense foods, aligns perfectly with this recipe.
With ingredients like fresh parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil, these salmon cakes emphasize natural flavors rather than excessive salt or processed seasonings.
Perfect for Meal Prep & Quick Dinners
One of the best things about this dish is its convenience. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
The mixture can be shaped into patties in advance, stored in the refrigerator, and cooked when needed.
These salmon cakes also store well, making them a fantastic option for those who enjoy prepping healthy meals in advance. They can be refrigerated for a few days or frozen for longer storage, making it easy to grab a nutritious meal anytime.
Customizing the Recipe for Dietary Needs
This dish is already packed with protein and healthy fats, but it can also be adapted for different dietary preferences:
- Gluten-free: Substitute whole-wheat bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Low-carb: Reduce the bread crumbs or replace them with finely ground nuts like almond or flaxseed meal.
- Dairy-free: Swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or avocado-based dressing.
- Spicy variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Since the DASH diet emphasizes reducing sodium intake, those following it can use a lower amount of salt while relying on fresh herbs and citrus to enhance flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Salmon cakes with bell pepper and lemon yogurt pair well with a variety of fresh and vibrant sides. Some great options include:
- Green vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed spinach, or a crisp arugula salad.
- Whole grains: Pair with quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a fiber-rich, satisfying meal.
- Mediterranean flavors: Serve alongside hummus, tabbouleh, or grilled eggplant to add a Mediterranean twist.
For a complete DASH diet-friendly meal, pair these salmon cakes with a side of roasted cauliflower and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Salmon cakes with bell pepper and lemon yogurt are an excellent addition to any meal plan, offering a balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. It’s easy to make, packed with health benefits, and completely customizable to suit different dietary needs.
DASH Diet Salmon Cakes with Bell Pepper & Lemon Yogurt
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Large skillet
- Small bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Salmon Cakes
- ¼ cup whole-wheat bread crumbs
- ¼ cup mayonnaise low-fat option available
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 tablespoon chives chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt divided
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 5- to 6-ounce cans no-salt boneless/skinless salmon, drained and flaked
- ½ bell pepper finely diced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
For the Lemon Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the whole-wheat bread crumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, chopped chives, parsley, and lemon zest. Season with ½ of the kosher salt and the black pepper, stirring until well combined. Gently fold in the flaked salmon and diced bell pepper, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients. Shape the mixture into 8 equal patties.
- Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place half of the salmon patties in the skillet and cook until the bottoms turn golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. If they start browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Flip each patty and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the other side is golden. Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining olive oil and salmon cakes.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Serve the salmon cakes warm with a dollop of the lemon yogurt sauce on top or on the side.
Notes
- Using low-fat mayonnaise helps keep the dish lighter while preserving moisture.
- A dash of smoked paprika or a hint of cumin can add depth to the flavor.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or lightly steamed vegetables for a balanced DASH diet meal.
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.