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Harissa Orange Salmon Patties Recipe

4.4 from 66 reviews

These Harissa Orange Salmon Patties are a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional salmon cakes, combining zesty orange, spicy harissa, and fresh herbs. Perfectly pan-seared and finished with a sweet and tangy orange-harissa sauce, these patties make a delicious and healthy meal option that’s quick to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Patties

  • Finely grated zest from 1 medium orange (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons harissa paste, divided
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 medium scallions
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves (8 sprigs), plus more for garnish
  • 1 pound skinless salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs

Orange-Harissa Sauce

  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from 1 medium orange)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon harissa paste (remaining from above)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Egg Mixture: Whisk together the finely grated zest from 1 medium orange, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of harissa paste, and 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt in a large bowl until combined.
  2. Chop Scallions and Cilantro: Coarsely chop the white parts of 3 medium scallions and add them to a food processor. Finely chop the scallion greens separately and set them aside for garnish. Add 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves to the food processor.
  3. Pulse Aromatics and Salmon: Pulse the scallions and cilantro in the food processor 4 to 6 times (1-second pulses) until finely chopped. Add 1 pound skinless salmon pieces and pulse 8 to 10 times until coarsely ground.
  4. Combine Salmon and Egg Mixture: Transfer the processed salmon mixture into the large bowl with the egg mixture. Add 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs and gently fold everything together with a flexible spatula until just combined.
  5. Form Patties: Divide the salmon mixture into 4 equal portions (about 3/4 cup or 5 ounces each). Shape each portion into a patty about 1 inch thick and 3 1/2 inches wide.
  6. Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, 3 tablespoons honey, and the remaining 1 tablespoon harissa paste until smooth.
  7. Heat Oil and Cook Patties: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large (12-inch) nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Swirl the oil to coat the skillet evenly. Using a wide, flat spatula, gently transfer the patties to the pan and cook until golden-brown on the first side, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  8. Flip and Continue Cooking: Flip the patties and cook for 1 minute on the other side.
  9. Add Sauce and Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low and pour the orange-harissa sauce over the patties. Cook, occasionally spooning the sauce over the patties, until the sauce thickens and the salmon is just cooked through, about 3 minutes. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer—the internal temperature should be at least 125°F.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Remove patties from the skillet and garnish with reserved scallion greens and chopped fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh wild-caught salmon if possible.
  • Adjust the harissa paste quantity according to your preferred spice level.
  • The patties can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • If you prefer a crispier crust, you can add a bit more panko breadcrumbs.
  • Use a food thermometer to ensure proper doneness without overcooking the salmon.

Keywords: salmon patties, harissa salmon, orange salmon, spicy salmon cakes, fish patties, Mediterranean salmon recipe