Name: Salmon Sweet Potato Fish Cakes with Herbs Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 52 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 8.82 ounces cooked salmon (about 250 grams); 14.82 ounces sweet potato (just under 1 lb peeled weight, cubed) (about 420 grams); 3 tablespoons chives, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons parsley leaves, finely chopped; 1½ tablespoons dill leaves, finely chopped; Fine sea salt, to taste; White pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 163 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that combines wholesome ingredients with vibrant flavors, then the Salmon Sweet Potato Fish Cakes with Herbs Recipe is your new go-to favorite. This recipe perfectly marries the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with the rich, flaky goodness of salmon, all brightened up by fresh herbs. The result is a comforting yet light dish that feels both rustic and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, these fish cakes bring warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round metal mixing bowl holds four main layers of ingredients arranged side by side. On the left, there is a pale pink layer of shredded cooked fish with soft flaky texture. Next to it, a bright green layer of finely chopped chives adds a sharp contrast. To the right of the chives, there is a fluffy, bright orange layer of mashed sweet potatoes or squash. In the lower center, a mix of darker green chopped fresh herbs sits beneath a sprinkling of light brown spices. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with soft natural light shining from above, highlighting the colors and textures photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients are what make this recipe so reliable and delicious. Each component plays a key role—from the creamy texture of sweet potatoes to the aromatic freshness of herbs—building layers of flavor and texture that dance on your palate.

Cooked salmon (8.82 ounces): Use leftover salmon or cook fresh fillets; provides rich protein and flaky texture.
Sweet potato (14.82 ounces, peeled and cubed): Adds natural sweetness and a creamy base for binding the cakes.
Chives (3 tablespoons, finely chopped): Delivers a mild onion flavor and fresh green color.
Parsley (2 tablespoons, finely chopped leaves only): Brings bright, herbaceous notes that enhance the fish.
Dill (1½ tablespoons, finely chopped leaves only): The classic pairing with salmon, offering a subtle aniseed fragrance.
Fine sea salt and white pepper: Essential for seasoning without overpowering delicate flavors.
Breadcrumbs (2 tablespoons): Helps bind and gives a slight crispiness when frying.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For frying, adds a fruity richness without masking the herbs.

How to Make Salmon Sweet Potato Fish Cakes with Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

If you aren’t working with leftover salmon, start by baking a fresh fillet. Place it on a baking sheet lined with non-stick paper, season lightly, and drizzle with oil. Baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes gently cooks the fish through without drying it out. Once cooked, flake the salmon carefully and let it cool—this flaky texture is what makes the fish cakes so luscious.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cube your sweet potatoes, then boil them in salted water just until tender—about 10 minutes. The goal is soft but not mushy pieces, so they hold their shape when mashed. Drain and coarsely mash the potatoes with a fork to maintain a bit of bite that contrasts beautifully with the salmon’s flakiness.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Into a mixing bowl, add the flaked salmon, mashed sweet potatoes, and all those fresh herbs: chives, parsley, and dill. Season with fine sea salt and white pepper to taste. Stir everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring the mixture stays somewhat chunky. This texture balance is crucial for the perfect fish cake.

Step 4: Form the Fish Cakes

Shape the mixture into small, firm balls. Then, roll each ball lightly in breadcrumbs and press gently to form compact cakes that aren’t too flat—this helps them hold together while cooking but stay tender inside.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry the fish cakes for about two minutes on one side until lightly golden, then flip gently. Add the remaining oil and cook for another two minutes. You want a golden crust that locks in moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Ready to Serve

Once browned and fragrant, remove the salmon sweet potato fish cakes from the pan and serve them hot for the best experience. Their inviting aroma and beautiful color will have everyone eagerly digging in.

How to Serve Salmon Sweet Potato Fish Cakes with Herbs Recipe

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface with four golden-brown round patties that have a crispy texture and finely chopped green herbs inside. One patty has a dollop of white creamy sauce with chopped herbs on top. There are two bright yellow lemon wedges placed near the patties. A fork holds a small piece of a broken patty, showing a soft, moist inside with flecks of orange and green. Some chopped green herbs are sprinkled around the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes enhances the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile. Think along the lines of a dollop of lemon-infused yogurt or a tangy herb mayonnaise. A sprinkle of extra chopped chives or dill right on top brightens every bite with freshness.

Side Dishes

These fish cakes pair beautifully with simple green salads or steamed green beans to keep the meal light and vibrant. For a heartier plate, consider roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad tossed with lemon and herbs to echo the fresh flavors in the cakes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your Salmon Sweet Potato Fish Cakes with Herbs Recipe for a dinner party, serve them stacked with a small mixed greens salad between layers or alongside a colorful beetroot and citrus salad. You can also use mini versions as appetizers with a side of tangy dipping sauce to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover fish cakes keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Store them carefully to preserve their texture, and try to enjoy them within this window for peak flavor and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked fish cakes by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag. This preserves their shape and flavor, so you can enjoy homemade meals even when short on time. Keep frozen for up to one month.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the fish cakes in a non-stick pan over low heat or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the cakes soft rather than crisp.

FAQs

Can I use raw salmon instead of cooked?

Yes, you can bake raw salmon as described in Step 1. Just be sure to cook it fully and let it cool before mixing it with the other ingredients to achieve the best texture and safety.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?

Fresh herbs really elevate this recipe, but if you only have dried, reduce the amount significantly since dried herbs are more concentrated. Using dried dill and parsley sparingly can still offer flavor, though fresh is best for brightness.

Are these fish cakes gluten-free?

If you want to keep these gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This swap won’t affect the flavor much but will keep them safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I bake the fish cakes instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through, can give you a lighter version with less oil, although the crust might be a little less crisp.

How do I prevent the fish cakes from falling apart?

The key is to mash the sweet potatoes with a bit of texture and make sure your salmon is flaked but not overly mixed. Also, handling the cakes gently but firmly while shaping and coating with breadcrumbs helps keep them intact during cooking.

Final Thoughts

Giving this Salmon Sweet Potato Fish Cakes with Herbs Recipe a try is like inviting warmth and coziness into your kitchen. It showcases how effortless yet rewarding cooking can be when you combine fresh, wholesome ingredients in just the right way. Once you taste these tender, herbaceous cakes, you’ll understand why they’ve become a cherished favorite of mine—and why they’re sure to be a hit with you and your loved ones too!