What Kind of Potatoes Go Best with Salmon Patties?

Salmon patties are a classic dish that can be served as an appetizer, entree or even as snacks The combination of flaky salmon and crisp breading is delicious But what kind of potatoes make the best side dish for salmon patties? The potato pairing you choose can take your salmon cakes from great to amazing.

After looking at various recipes and options I’ve determined the best potatoes to serve with salmon patties are mashed potatoes. The creamy smooth texture perfectly complements the patties’ crunch. However, there are other excellent potato pairings as well. In this article, I’ll explain why mashed potatoes work so well and also suggest alternative potato dishes to consider.

Why Mashed Potatoes Are an Ideal Pairing

Mashed potatoes are one of the most traditional and delicious sides to eat with salmon patties. There are several good reasons this combination is so popular:

• Texture – The soft, creamy mashed potatoes offset the crispy Panko crust of the salmon cakes perfectly The contrasting textures balance each other out nicely

• Flavor – Mashed potatoes are relatively bland on their own, which allows the salmon flavor to take center stage. However, they still provide a rich, comforting base for the patties.

• Versatility – Mashed potatoes can be seasoned and flavored in countless ways. Mix in garlic, chives, cheese, or other ingredients to customize them.

• Satisfying – Few side dishes are as warming, hearty and filling as mashed potatoes. Paired with salmon cakes, they make a meal that doesn’t need much else.

• Easy preparation – Compared to other potato dishes, mashed potatoes come together quickly and easily. Simply boil, mash, season and serve!

With all these advantages, it’s easy to understand why creamy mashed potatoes are a foolproof choice with salmon patties. Now let’s look at tips for preparing top-notch mashed spuds.

Tips for Making the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes

Making good mashed potatoes is simple once you know a few tricks:

• Pick the right potatoes – Starchy russet or Yukon Gold potatoes make the creamiest, fluffiest mash. Avoid waxy red potatoes.

• Cut evenly – Cut potatoes into uniform 1-2 inch chunks so they cook evenly.

• Start with cold water – Put diced potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil. This helps them cook evenly all the way through.

• Simmer until fork-tender – Cook over medium heat until a fork easily pierces potatoes, about 15-20 minutes.

• Drain and return to pot – Drain excess water, then return potatoes to hot pot for 1 minute. This evaporates moisture.

• Mash thoroughly – Use a potato masher or ricer and mash until smooth. For lump-free potatoes, add hot milk and butter and use a hand mixer.

• Season simply – Stir in salt, pepper, butter, milk or cream. Then enhance with garlic, herbs, cheese, etc.

Follow these tips and your mashed potatoes will turn out perfectly smooth and creamy every time. The ideal complement to your crunchy, savory salmon patties.

Alternative Potato Pairings

While mashed potatoes are a top pick, they’re not your only option. Here are more tasty potato dishes that pair wonderfully with salmon cakes:

• Roasted potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes provide great texture contrast to soft salmon patties. Roughly chop potatoes, toss with oil, and roast at 400°F until nicely browned.

• Hasselback potatoes – These accordion-cut baked potatoes look elegant and taste amazing. Slice potatoes close together, brush with oil, and bake until tender.

• Potato salad – A cool, creamy potato salad balances the hot patties. Toss diced potatoes with mayo, mustard, eggs, onion, parsley, etc.

• Skillet potatoes – Get crispy pan-fried potatoes in minutes. Dice potatoes and fry in butter over medium-high heat until golden brown.

• Home fries – Similar to skillet potatoes but shredded. Fry shredded potatoes in oil and butter until crispy and cooked through.

• Baked potatoes – You can’t go wrong with a simple baked potato, either. Top with all your favorite fixings.

The possibilities are endless! Mix up your potato pairings to keep things interesting. Or offer two potato dishes to add variety to the meal.

More Tips for Serving Salmon Patties

Beyond choosing the right potato side, here are some other tips for serving fabulous salmon patties:

• Allow patties to rest for 5 minutes after cooking so they hold together better

• Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh dill, parsley, capers, or diced red onion

• Offer tartar sauce, Greek yogurt sauce, or aioli as condiments

• For a lighter meal, serve over a fresh green salad instead of potatoes

• Leftover patties make excellent sandwiches or wraps

• Freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper for quick meals later

With so many options for potato pairings and serving ideas, you can enjoy salmon patties any night of the week. Mashed potatoes may be my top choice, but roasted, baked, and pan-fried potatoes all make excellent alternatives.