Salmon Burgers

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a delicious homemade burger, and when it comes to seafood, Salmon Burgers are my absolute favorite. I remember the first time I made them for my family; the laughter and joy around the dinner table were priceless. These burgers bring the essence of summer right into your kitchen, with that perfect blend of fresh salmon and zesty flavors. Whether it’s a sunny day or a cozy evening indoors, these Salmon Burgers have a way of brightening up the meal. I love to serve them with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing salad, which makes for a balanced and delightful dinner.

What to Gather for Salmon Burgers

Gathering the right ingredients is key to a successful dish, especially when it comes to making Salmon Burgers. The combination of fresh salmon, almond flour, and a few key flavor enhancers creates a perfect balance. The almond flour serves as a wonderful binder while adding a slight nuttiness. Each ingredient plays its part in ensuring the burgers are flavorful and satisfying.

• 1 pound fresh salmon, skinned – This is the star of the show, providing a rich, buttery flavor that makes each burger delicious.
• 1/3 cup almond flour – Great for binding the ingredients together while keeping the burgers gluten-free.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 egg – Acts as a binding agent, helping the burgers hold their shape during cooking.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the burgers with aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon capers (optional) – Provide a briny bite that complements the salmon beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and adds a hint of acidity.
• 1/3 cup finely chopped scallions (or shallot or red onion) – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances the overall taste of the burgers.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh) – Contributes a herby note that complements the salmon.

How to Make Salmon Burgers

Making Salmon Burgers is a fun and engaging process that anyone can enjoy. Follow these detailed steps for a delicious result. You’ll love watching the ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that everyone will appreciate.

1. Start by prepping your salmon. If you’re using a food processor, chop the salmon roughly by pulsing it about 8 to 10 times. The goal is to have pieces that are still visible, but the salmon should be minced. If you prefer, you can also chop the salmon with a knife until it’s in small pieces.

2. Once the salmon is minced, remove the blade from the food processor. In the same bowl, combine all the other burger ingredients: almond flour, Dijon mustard, egg, minced garlic, capers, lemon juice, finely chopped scallions, sea salt, black pepper, and parsley. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the flavors meld together.

3. Now it’s time to form the patties. With your hands, shape the mixture into 4 burger shapes that are about 1 inch thick. Be careful not to make them too thin, as salmon patties can be soft and mushy if they’re overly flattened.

4. Transfer the formed patties to a parchment-lined plate or tray. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the patties firm up, making them easier to cook.

5. Once chilled, you can cook the patties using your preferred method. Whether you choose the stovetop, grill, oven, or air fryer, they’ll hold together beautifully when cooked. Let’s explore these methods:

6. Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once hot, pan-fry the salmon burgers for about 5 minutes per side. Try to flip them only once to maintain their shape.

7. Grilling: Spray the grill well and preheat it to 400ºF. Place the patties on the grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes per side, flipping only once. This will give them that lovely charred flavor.

8. Baking: Preheat your oven to 400ºF and place the patties on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through to ensure even cooking.

9. Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF. Lightly spray the basket and carefully place the patties in it. Cook for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside and cooked through. There’s no need to flip them during cooking.

10. These salmon patties are best enjoyed immediately when they’re hot and crispy. Serve them plain on a burger roll with your favorite sauce, atop a fresh salad, or with a side of Tzatziki Sauce for a refreshing touch.

11. As for leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, wrap them in freezer-safe packaging and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ways to Customize

There’s always room for creativity when making Salmon Burgers. Here are some ways to customize your burgers for maximum flavor and enjoyment:

• Experiment with Herbs: Add different herbs like dill, cilantro, or chives to change up the flavor profile.
• Spice Level: If you enjoy a kick, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the mixture.
• Different Binders: Instead of almond flour, try using breadcrumbs or oat flour for a unique texture.
• Healthy Sauces: Serve with homemade sauces like avocado aioli or spicy yogurt instead of traditional mayonnaise.
• Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh avocado slices, lettuce, and tomato for a delicious crunch.
• Serving Style: Consider serving the burgers in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• Side Pairing: Serve alongside sweet potato fries or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal.

Side Dish Ideas for Salmon Burgers

When it comes to serving Salmon Burgers, the right side dishes can elevate the meal and create a balanced plate. Here are some suggestions for tasty accompaniments:

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These add a hint of sweetness and crunch that pairs beautifully with the savory burgers.
• Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can bring a crunchy texture and additional flavor to your meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with cucumbers, parsley, and a lemon dressing complements the flavors of the salmon.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce is a cool and creamy dip that works perfectly alongside the burgers.
• Beer-Battered Onion Rings: For a fun twist, serve crispy onion rings for a satisfying crunch.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Salmon Burgers are a delightful twist on a classic burger, combining health and flavor in one delicious bite. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, these burgers are sure to impress family and friends alike. I encourage you to give them a try; their fresh taste and ease of preparation make them a fantastic meal option any time of year!

Salmon Burgers

These Salmon Burgers are the perfect blend of fresh fish and zesty flavors, making for a delicious meal that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and full of nutrients, they're a fantastic choice for a healthy weeknight dinner. Serve them hot on a bun or over a salad, and get ready for a culinary treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound salmon fresh, skinned
• 1/3 cup almond flour
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 each egg
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon capers optional
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/3 cup scallions finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt fine
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Food Processor
• Air Fryer
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by prepping your salmon. If you’re using a food processor, chop the salmon roughly by pulsing it about 8 to 10 times. The goal is to have pieces that are still visible, but the salmon should be minced. If you prefer, you can also chop the salmon with a knife until it’s in small pieces.
2. Once the salmon is minced, remove the blade from the food processor. In the same bowl, combine all the other burger ingredients: almond flour, Dijon mustard, egg, minced garlic, capers, lemon juice, finely chopped scallions, sea salt, black pepper, and parsley. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Now it’s time to form the patties. With your hands, shape the mixture into 4 burger shapes that are about 1 inch thick. Be careful not to make them too thin, as salmon patties can be soft and mushy if they’re overly flattened.
4. Transfer the formed patties to a parchment-lined plate or tray. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the patties firm up, making them easier to cook.
5. Once chilled, you can cook the patties using your preferred method. Whether you choose the stovetop, grill, oven, or air fryer, they’ll hold together beautifully when cooked. Let’s explore these methods:
6. Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once hot, pan-fry the salmon burgers for about 5 minutes per side. Try to flip them only once to maintain their shape.
7. Grilling: Spray the grill well and preheat it to 400ºF. Place the patties on the grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes per side, flipping only once. This will give them that lovely charred flavor.
8. Baking: Preheat your oven to 400ºF and place the patties on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through to ensure even cooking.
9. Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF. Lightly spray the basket and carefully place the patties in it. Cook for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy on the outside and cooked through. There’s no need to flip them during cooking.
10. These salmon patties are best enjoyed immediately when they’re hot and crispy. Serve them plain on a burger roll with your favorite sauce, atop a fresh salad, or with a side of Tzatziki Sauce for a refreshing touch.
11. As for leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, wrap them in freezer-safe packaging and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Notes

• Chilling is Key: Don't skip the chilling step! Keeping the patties in the refrigerator helps them hold together during cooking and enhances the flavors.
• Don’t Over-Process: Be cautious not to over-process the salmon in the food processor. You want a nice texture with pieces still visible for a better burger.
• Cooking Methods Vary: Feel free to experiment with different cooking methods. Each method brings out unique flavors in the salmon.
• Watch the Heat: If pan-frying, watch the heat closely to avoid burning. Medium-high is just right for a crispy exterior without overcooking.
• Serve Fresh: These burgers taste best when served fresh and hot. If you must store leftovers, do it properly to maintain quality.

Previous PostChicken Wild Rice Casserole

Next Post Best Burgers

Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.