Craving something crispy, zesty, and absolutely delicious?
Look no further than these Fried Lemon Pepper Salmon Sticks! Perfect for a quick appetizer, a casual dinner, or even a game-day snack, these salmon sticks are a crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes.
Paired with a creamy, tangy Old Bay Blue Cheese Sauce, they deliver a burst of flavors that will leave everyone asking for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Salmon is not only a nutritional powerhouse but also incredibly versatile. In this recipe, we take salmon fillets, season them to perfection, and fry them until golden and crispy. The lemon pepper seasoning adds a refreshing citrus kick, while the Old Bay Blue Cheese Sauce provides a creamy, savory contrast. Together, they create a harmonious balance of flavors that’s as comforting as it is exciting.
And the best part? These salmon sticks are easy to make and ready in just minutes! Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon Sticks:
- 1 lb (450g) salmon fillets, skinless
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Old Bay Blue Cheese Sauce:
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Fried Lemon Pepper Salmon Sticks
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by cutting your skinless salmon fillets into long, thin strips resembling fish sticks. Aim for even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.
Step 2: Season and Coat
In a shallow dish, mix the flour, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each salmon strip into the beaten eggs, coating it thoroughly, then roll it in the seasoned flour mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat until all the salmon strips are coated.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or skillet, filling it about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. To check if it’s ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—it should sizzle and turn golden within seconds.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Carefully place the coated salmon strips into the hot oil. Fry in batches, so the pan isn’t overcrowded. Cook each batch for about 3-4 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning. Once golden and crispy, transfer the salmon sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Making the Old Bay Blue Cheese Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these golden, crispy salmon sticks hot alongside the tangy Old Bay Blue Cheese Sauce for dipping. Pair them with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They’re also fantastic as a finger food option for parties or gatherings—just be sure to make extra because they’ll disappear quickly!
Pro Tips for the Best Salmon Sticks
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon makes a huge difference in flavor. If possible, buy it from a trusted fishmonger.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the lemon pepper seasoning—it’s the star of this dish!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the salmon sticks in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Serve Immediately: These salmon sticks are best enjoyed fresh and hot for the ultimate crunch.
Final Thoughts
Fried Lemon Pepper Salmon Sticks are a quick and easy way to turn simple ingredients into an impressive dish. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re sure to steal the spotlight. So, grab your ingredients and get frying—you’re just minutes away from culinary bliss!
Let us know in the comments how yours turned out or if you made any creative twists to the recipe. Happy cooking!