Salmon Burgers Recipe – Juicy, Flavorful & Healthy Homemade Burgers

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1. Introduction

If you’re craving a lighter, healthier alternative to beef burgers, Salmon Burgers are the answer. These juicy, flavorful patties are made with fresh salmon, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then pan-seared or grilled to golden perfection. They’re hearty enough to satisfy a burger craving, yet light and packed with protein and omega-3s.

The beauty of salmon burgers is their versatility—you can dress them up with a tangy dill yogurt sauce, keep it classic with lettuce and tomato, or go gourmet with avocado and pickled onions. Quick to prepare and absolutely delicious, these burgers are a weeknight hero or a BBQ standout.

2. Ingredients Breakdown

  • Fresh Salmon (1 lb / 450 g): Skinless, boneless fillet is best. You can pulse it in a food processor for a chunky texture.
  • Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Helps bind the patties. Use panko for extra crunch.
  • Egg (1 large): Holds everything together.
  • Red Onion (2 tbsp, finely diced): Adds mild sharpness.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For aromatic depth.
  • Fresh Parsley or Dill (2 tbsp, chopped): Brings freshness.
  • Lemon Zest (1 tsp): Brightens the flavor.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
  • Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For pan-frying.

For Serving (optional):

  • Brioche buns, lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, pickles
  • Dill sauce or tartar sauce

Substitutions:

  • Use canned salmon if fresh isn’t available (drain well).
  • Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour for gluten-free.
  • Replace parsley with cilantro for a different twist.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare salmon:
    • Roughly chop salmon fillet.
    • Pulse half in a food processor to form a paste, and keep the other half finely chopped for texture.
  2. Mix the patties:
    • In a bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
    • Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Form patties:
    • Divide mixture into 4 equal portions.
    • Shape into patties about 1 inch thick.
  4. Cook patties:
    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
    • (Alternatively, grill them for a smoky flavor.)
  5. Assemble burgers:
    • Toast buns.
    • Layer with lettuce, tomato, salmon patty, sauce, and desired toppings.

4. Tips and Variations

  • Keep patties moist: Don’t overmix the salmon mixture.
  • Make ahead: Form patties and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Add spice: Mix in chili flakes, jalapeño, or sriracha for heat.
  • Asian-inspired version: Add soy sauce, ginger, and scallions; serve with sesame slaw.
  • Mediterranean twist: Mix in feta, oregano, and serve with tzatziki.

5. Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with sweet potato fries, a green salad, or coleslaw.
  • Serve on buns or over a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies.
  • A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements perfectly.

6. Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Fridge: Store cooked patties in an airtight container up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties (wrapped individually) for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat.

7. Recipe Notes

  • Salmon burgers are delicate—handle gently when flipping.
  • If mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
  • Always cook salmon to an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).

8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving, approx., without bun)

NutrientAmount
Calories280
Fat16g
Saturated Fat3g
Carbohydrates7g
Sugar1g
Fiber1g
Protein25g
Sodium320mg
Omega-3sHigh

9. Recipe Card Summary

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh salmon, skinless & boneless
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp red onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp parsley or dill, chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • ½ tsp salt & ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Chop salmon, pulse half to paste.
  2. Mix salmon with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  3. Shape into 4 patties.
  4. Pan-fry in olive oil 4–5 min per side until golden.
  5. Serve on buns with desired toppings and sauce.

10. FAQs

1. Can I use canned salmon?
Yes, just drain well and remove any bones/skin.

2. How do I keep salmon burgers from falling apart?
Use egg and breadcrumbs as binders, and chill patties before cooking.

3. Are salmon burgers healthy?
Yes! They’re rich in lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and lower in fat than beef burgers.

4. Can I grill salmon burgers?
Absolutely—just oil the grates and handle patties gently.

5. What sauce goes best with salmon burgers?
Dill yogurt sauce, tartar sauce, or a simple lemon-garlic aioli are excellent.

11. Final Thoughts

Salmon Burgers are the perfect way to enjoy a healthier, lighter burger without sacrificing flavor. They’re quick, versatile, and satisfying, making them a great addition to your weekly dinner rotation or summer grilling menu.

Once you try these, you might never go back to beef burgers again!

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