These salmon cakes are simple to prepare, using canned salmon, breadcrumbs, and zesty lemon for a fresh, satisfying flavor. We use no added salt and low sodium pantry staples like no-salt-added salmon and unsalted mayonnaise to keep sodium levels down while keeping flavor high. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
Ingredients Needed:
- 15 oz canned salmon: no salt added, drained.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: unsalted or low sodium version.
- 1 large egg: helps bind the mixture.
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard: choose low sodium if possible.
- ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs: use low sodium or homemade.
- ⅛ tsp garlic powder: adds flavor without salt.
- ½ tsp lemon zest: for a fresh, bright taste.
- Avocado oil: for frying, heart-healthy choice.
How To Make Low Sodium Salmon Cakes:
Mix Ingredients:
Place all ingredients into a large bowl. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
Form Patties:
Shape into 8 equal-sized patties (or 10 smaller ones). For firmer cakes, chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Cook the Cakes:
Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
Serve:
Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon or a side of low sodium sauce.

Recipe Tips:
- Use no salt added canned salmon for a heart-healthy option.
- Chill patties before cooking for better shape and texture.
- Choose low sodium Dijon mustard to reduce total sodium.
- Avocado oil is a heart-healthy fat great for frying.
- Pair with a sodium-free dipping sauce like Greek yogurt with herbs.
How to Store & Reheat:
- Fridge: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze patties between parchment layers up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in skillet over medium heat or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (per cake, approx.):
- Calories: 170
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Protein: 14 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbs: 4 g
- Fibre: 0.8 g
- Sugar: 0 g
FAQs:
Is canned salmon high in sodium?
Regular canned salmon can be, but many brands offer no salt added options perfect for low sodium diets.
Can I bake these salmon cakes instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Can I use fresh salmon instead?
Absolutely. Cook and flake 1½ cups of fresh salmon as a substitute.
What’s the best breadcrumb substitute for low sodium diets?
Use unsalted crushed oats, rice cakes, or make your own no-salt breadcrumbs.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes. Shape and refrigerate the patties up to 24 hours before cooking.
Try More Recipes:
- Low Sodium Spice Cake Recipe
- Low Sodium Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Low Sodium Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Low Sodium Salmon Cakes Recipe
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings10
minutes10
minutes170
kcalEasy, flavorful salmon cakes made with no salt added ingredients—perfect for heart-healthy meals.
Ingredients
15 oz canned salmon, no salt added
¼ cup low sodium mayonnaise
1 large egg
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard, low sodium
½ cup low sodium breadcrumbs
⅛ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp lemon zest
Avocado oil for frying
Directions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Form into 8 patties. Chill 20 minutes if possible.
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties 5–7 minutes per side until golden.
- Serve warm with fresh lemon or low sodium sauce.
