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–+ servings
Lemon Parsley Fish Cakes
These Lemon Parsley Fish Cakes are crispy, golden patties bursting with fresh flavors. Flaky baked fish is mixed with scallions, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a touch of Tabasco for heat, then coated in bread crumbs and parsley for freshness. Perfect for weeknight dinners, these fish cakes are freezer-friendly and quick to prepare. Serve them alongside a green vegetable and a crisp salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 265 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb cod (or similar white fish)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg (large, beaten)
  • ¼ cup scallions (thinly sliced )
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 6 tbsp bread crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3 dashes Tabasco sauce
  • 3 tbsp parsley (freshly chopped )
  • oil for frying (about 3–4 tbsp)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place cod in a greased baking dish, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.
  • Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
  • Let cool, then break into flakes using a fork.

Step 2: Make the Fish Cake Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine the flaked fish, beaten egg, scallions, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, bread crumbs, Tabasco, and parsley.
  • Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Shape Patties

  • Divide mixture into equal portions and shape into patties.
  • Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Fry patties for about 2 minutes per side, until crispy and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve immediately with a green vegetable and salad.

Tips

  • Use any firm white fish if cod is unavailable (e.g., haddock or pollock).
  • Chill formed patties 10 to 15 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
  • Substitute panko for regular breadcrumbs for extra-crisp texture.
  • Add extra lemon zest for brighter citrus flavor.
  • Swap scallions with finely minced shallot or chives for a milder onion note.
  • Make mini patties for appetizers or sliders.
  • Bake instead of fry for a lighter version; brush lightly with oil and bake until golden.
  • Serve with tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or simple yogurt-dill sauce.
  • Freeze formed, uncooked patties between parchment for quick future meals.

Nutrition

Calories: 265kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 24gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 380mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 210IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 28mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cod, easy seafood, fish cakes, homemade, Lemon, pan-fried, parsley, weeknight dinner
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