Salmon burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lighter yet satisfying meal. Paired with a vibrant, tangy slaw, these burgers are elevated to a gourmet level with minimal effort. This recipe serves 4 and takes about 45 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for both casual and special occasions. Below, you’ll find everything you need to create these mouthwatering salmon burgers, from ingredients to serving tips.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Burgers
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: 1 pound (skinless, preferably wild-caught for better flavor and sustainability)
- Panko Breadcrumbs: ½ cup (for a light, crispy texture)
- Egg: 1 large (binds the patties together)
- Green Onions: 2, finely chopped (adds mild onion flavor)
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped (complements salmon’s richness)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (for a tangy kick)
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon (brightens the flavor)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (enhances freshness)
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced (for subtle depth)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (freshly ground for best flavor)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for cooking the patties)
- Burger Buns: 4 (brioche or whole-grain, toasted for extra flavor)
For the Slaw
- Green Cabbage: 2 cups, thinly shredded (for crunch)
- Red Cabbage: 1 cup, thinly shredded (for color and sweetness)
- Carrots: 1 medium, grated (adds sweetness and texture)
- Red Bell Pepper: ½, thinly sliced (for vibrant color and crunch)
- Greek Yogurt: ¼ cup (for creamy, tangy dressing)
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons (adds richness to the dressing)
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (for bright acidity)
- Honey: 1 teaspoon (balances the tanginess)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (for extra zing)
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ⅛ teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped (for freshness)
Optional Toppings
- Avocado Slices: For creamy richness
- Lettuce Leaves: For added crunch
- Sliced Tomatoes: For juiciness
- Pickles: For a tangy bite
- Sriracha Mayo: Mix 2 tablespoons mayo with 1 teaspoon sriracha for a spicy kick
Equipment Needed
- Food processor (optional, for finely chopping salmon)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl (for slaw dressing)
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Spatula
- Mandoline or sharp knife (for shredding vegetables)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or microplane
- Cutting board
- Tongs (for toasting buns)
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Patties
- Chop the Salmon: Remove any bones from the salmon fillets. Cut the salmon into small chunks. For a finer texture, pulse the salmon in a food processor until coarsely ground (about 4-5 pulses). Alternatively, finely chop by hand for a chunkier texture.
- Mix the Patty Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, dill, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined—overmixing can make the patties dense.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about ¾-inch thick. Place the patties on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up. This step helps the patties hold their shape during cooking.
Step 2: Make the Slaw
- Prepare the Vegetables: Using a mandoline or sharp knife, thinly shred the green and red cabbage. Grate the carrot and thinly slice the red bell pepper. Combine all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley until smooth.
- Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Patties
- Heat the Pan: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Ensure the pan is hot but not smoking to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Patties: Place the chilled salmon patties in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F). Avoid pressing down on the patties to retain their juiciness.
- Toast the Buns: While the patties cook, lightly toast the burger buns in a separate pan or on a grill for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
- Prepare the Buns: Spread a thin layer of sriracha mayo (if using) on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato for extra freshness.
- Add the Patty: Place a cooked salmon patty on top of the lettuce and tomato.
- Top with Slaw: Spoon a generous portion of the slaw over the patty. The slaw’s crunch and tanginess pair perfectly with the salmon.
- Optional Toppings: Add avocado slices or pickles for extra flavor. Place the top half of the bun on the burger.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the burgers with extra slaw on the side and your choice of fries, sweet potato wedges, or a light salad.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon yields the best flavor, but frozen salmon works well if thawed properly. Avoid pre-packaged ground salmon, as it may lack freshness.
- Texture Matters: For a tender patty, don’t overprocess the salmon. A slightly coarse texture adds to the burger’s appeal.
- Prevent Sticking: Ensure the skillet is well-oiled and preheated. Chilling the patties before cooking also helps them stay intact.
- Make Ahead: The salmon mixture and slaw can be prepared a day in advance. Store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Grilling Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the patties on a well-oiled grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Use a grill mat if concerned about sticking.
Nutritional Benefits
Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. A single 4-ounce patty provides approximately 25 grams of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The slaw, made with cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, is packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that promote digestive health and immunity. Using Greek yogurt in the dressing reduces saturated fat while adding probiotics. Opting for whole-grain buns increases fiber intake, making this meal both delicious and balanced.
Approximate Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Without Optional Toppings)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g (5g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (5g fiber)
- Sodium: 600mg
- Vitamin C: 50% of Daily Value
- Omega-3s: 1.5g
Serving Suggestions
- Pairings: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries, a cucumber salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- Beverages: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer complements the flavors. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or iced green tea.
- Presentation: Stack the burgers high with colorful slaw for an Instagram-worthy dish. Serve on a wooden board with a side of pickles for a rustic touch.
- Variations: Swap salmon for tuna or cod for a different fish burger. For a low-carb option, serve the patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover patties and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving to prevent soggy buns.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Reheating: Reheat cooked patties in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of fresh salmon, zesty lemon, and aromatic dill creates a patty that’s flavorful without being heavy-0 fishy. The panko and egg ensure a tender yet sturdy texture, while the slaw’s creamy, tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the salmon. The recipe is versatile, allowing for customization with toppings and sides, and it’s approachable for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick family dinner, these salmon burgers with slaw are sure to impress.
Conclusion
Yummy Salmon Burgers with Slaw is a recipe that delivers on taste, nutrition, and ease. The vibrant flavors and textures make it a standout dish that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to prepare. Try it for your next meal and savor the fresh, wholesome goodness of homemade salmon burgers.