Yummy Salmon Burgers

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These crispy salmon burgers are a delicious combination of flaky salmon, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon, perfectly paired with a tangy cabbage slaw. The yogurt-based slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory, pan-fried patties, making it a balanced and flavorful meal.

Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a healthy and filling dish without the fuss, these salmon burgers are not only quick to make but also adaptable to various diets. Serve them on a bed of slaw, tucked in a bun, or alongside roasted veggies – whichever way you prefer, you’re in for a treat!

Full Recipe:

Salmon Burgers:

12–14 ounces cooked salmon (canned or pre-cooked)
2 eggs
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or chives)
A squeeze of lemon juice
Olive oil for pan-frying

Cabbage Slaw:

1 head green cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2–3 tablespoons white distilled vinegar (to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, and chives)
A drizzle of olive oil

Directions:

For the salmon burgers: Flake the salmon apart. Mix all burger ingredients together in a bowl and form into 3 large or 4 medium patties.
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a nonstick skillet. Fry the patties for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Place on a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt.
For the slaw: Mix all slaw ingredients together in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
To serve: Serve the hot salmon burgers on a bed of creamy slaw. Top with a dollop of extra yogurt, a drizzle of olive oil, and more herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes

Kcal: ~300 kcal per serving | Servings: 3-4 servings

Why This Recipe Works

These salmon burgers are a perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Made with minimal ingredients, they are packed with high-quality protein from the salmon, while the breadcrumbs and eggs bind the patties together, ensuring they hold up well during cooking. The fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives bring a pop of flavor and brightness, and the lemon juice adds a touch of acidity that complements the fish perfectly.

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Greek Yogurt in the slaw is a great source of protein and probiotics, which support gut health.
Cabbage provides crunch and fiber, making the slaw not only tasty but also good for digestion.

Customization Tips

Fresh vs. Canned Salmon: You can use either fresh or canned salmon, depending on what you have on hand. Fresh salmon, if cooked in advance, will offer a milder flavor, while canned salmon adds a richer taste. Canned salmon also makes this recipe very pantry-friendly and quick to prepare.
Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you’re gluten-sensitive, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko, almond flour, or even crushed cornflakes. Almond flour adds a slightly nutty taste that pairs wonderfully with salmon.
Dairy-Free Option for Slaw: To make the slaw dairy-free, swap out the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or another dairy-free alternative. Alternatively, you can make a tangy vinaigrette with olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, and herbs for a lighter slaw.

How to Serve These Burgers

On a Bun: Turn it into a full-fledged burger by serving the patties on whole wheat buns or brioche buns. Top with the creamy slaw, sliced avocado, tomato, and perhaps a drizzle of Sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
Bowl Style: For a lighter option, serve the salmon patties in a bowl with the cabbage slaw, some cooked quinoa, or brown rice, and add roasted veggies like asparagus or sweet potato.
Appetizer Style: Form smaller patties to serve as salmon sliders or mini appetizers at your next gathering. You can pair them with a variety of dipping sauces like aioli, honey mustard, or tahini.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Meal Prep: The salmon mixture can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. You can also shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
Freezing: Once shaped, the uncooked patties can be frozen on a baking sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Leftovers: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet to maintain their crispy texture. The slaw is best served fresh but can be kept for one day in the fridge if needed.

Pairing Suggestions

Sauces: These salmon burgers pair well with various sauces. Try a dill yogurt sauce, tzatziki, or even a spicy mayo for extra flavor.
Side Dishes: For a balanced meal, serve with roasted potatoes, a side salad with lemon vinaigrette, grilled asparagus, or steamed green beans.

Flavor Variations

Mediterranean Twist: Add some crumbled feta, chopped olives, and sun-dried tomatoes to the patties for a Mediterranean-inspired burger.
Asian-Inspired Flavor: Mix some soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil into the salmon mixture. Swap the cabbage slaw for a more Asian-style slaw with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and shredded carrots.
Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, add some chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or Sriracha to the salmon mixture for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips

Crispiness is Key: To achieve that crispy exterior, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the patties. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as it could cause the patties to steam rather than fry.
Don’t Overcook: Since the salmon is already cooked, you just need to fry the patties until they’re golden and heated through. Overcooking can lead to dry burgers, so aim for about 3-4 minutes per side.

History and Origins of Salmon Burgers

Salmon has long been a staple in cuisines worldwide, particularly in coastal areas where it’s freshly available. The concept of forming fish into patties dates back to various traditions where cooks aimed to stretch and preserve fish by combining it with binding ingredients like breadcrumbs or potatoes. Salmon burgers, especially in the form presented in this recipe, gained popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional meat burgers, providing a nutritious option that’s both lighter and rich in omega-3s.

Why Canned Salmon?

Canned salmon is a surprisingly nutritious and convenient alternative to fresh salmon:

Cost-effective: Canned salmon is usually more budget-friendly than fresh salmon, making this recipe an economical choice for enjoying seafood.
Rich in Nutrients: Canned salmon contains the same benefits as fresh salmon, such as high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and B vitamins.
Long Shelf Life: Keeping a can of salmon in your pantry means you can whip up these burgers without worrying about purchasing fresh fish.

Opt for high-quality canned salmon that is wild-caught, sustainable, and boneless/skinless for the best flavor and texture. This way, you’re getting a clean, delicious product without any additives.

The Benefits of Greek Yogurt in the Slaw

The creamy slaw dressing uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, making it a healthier option:

Lower in Fat: Greek yogurt has fewer calories and less fat compared to mayo, making it a great substitute for a lighter slaw.
Probiotics: The live cultures in Greek yogurt can promote better gut health and aid in digestion.
Protein Boost: Greek yogurt adds an extra dose of protein to the dish, making it more filling and balanced.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

This recipe combines a range of flavors and textures to create a balanced meal:

Flavor: The tanginess of the yogurt slaw pairs perfectly with the rich, savory taste of the salmon. Lemon juice and fresh herbs add brightness and elevate the overall flavor.
Texture: The crispy crust of the pan-fried salmon patties contrasts with their soft, flaky insides. The slaw adds a fresh, crunchy element to the dish, providing a refreshing and satisfying bite.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Modifications

For those with gluten sensitivities, switching to gluten-free breadcrumbs or using almond flour as a binding agent is a simple and effective way to make the recipe gluten-free.
To make this recipe dairy-free, replace the Greek yogurt in the slaw with a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut yogurt, or use a vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, and mustard for a tangy twist.

Serving Ideas for Different Occasions

These salmon burgers can be a versatile addition to many meals:

Weeknight Dinner: Serve on a bed of slaw or salad for a light, nourishing meal. Pair with sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.
Barbecue & Cookouts: Grill the patties on a barbecue and serve them in buns topped with slaw, avocado, and pickles. This adds a twist to traditional burgers and is a crowd-pleaser.
Brunch Delight: Top the burgers with a poached egg and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for a decadent brunch option.
Meal Prep for Lunches: Make the patties and slaw in advance, and pack them separately in meal prep containers for a ready-to-go lunch that stays fresh and flavorful.

Seasonal & Local Ingredient Twists

Summer: Use fresh, locally grown herbs like basil and cilantro, and serve with a fresh tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing summer twist.
Autumn/Winter: Pair the salmon burgers with a warm roasted vegetable side (like squash or Brussels sprouts) and add apple slices or cranberries to the slaw for a seasonal flavor.
Spring: Incorporate fresh peas, asparagus, and microgreens into the slaw for a vibrant and fresh take.

Flavor Elevation Tips

Add Some Zest: Use lemon zest in both the salmon patties and the slaw to amp up the citrus flavor and provide a lovely aroma.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the salmon mixture. You can also add some Sriracha or hot sauce to the yogurt slaw for a spicy kick.
Try Different Herbs: The dill, chives, and parsley are classic choices, but you can experiment with other herbs like cilantro, tarragon, or basil to give the burgers a new dimension of flavor.

Additional Sauces and Toppings

Tartar Sauce: A classic pairing with salmon, a tartar sauce made of pickles, capers, and lemon juice in a mayo or Greek yogurt base adds a tangy element.
Avocado Cream Sauce: Blend avocado, Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative), lime juice, and a touch of garlic for a creamy, flavorful topping that complements the salmon perfectly.
Pickled Onions or Radishes: Add some quick-pickled onions or radishes for a crunchy and tangy topping that brings brightness to the dish.
Smashed Avocado: Top your burger with smashed avocado, salt, and a sprinkle of lime juice for a creamy, healthy twist.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing Patties Separately from Slaw: It’s best to keep the slaw and patties separate when storing them, as the slaw can make the burgers soggy if they sit together for too long.
Reheating Tips: Reheat the salmon patties in a nonstick skillet over medium heat to keep them crispy. Alternatively, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Refreshing the Slaw: If your slaw has wilted slightly, you can refresh it with an extra squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Fun Facts About Salmon

Salmon is considered a “superfood” because of its high nutrient density, providing healthy fats, high-quality protein, and a range of vitamins and minerals in each serving.
Most canned salmon comes from wild-caught sources, particularly from Alaska, where the fish are harvested sustainably. Wild salmon is generally more nutrient-dense than farmed salmon.
The bright pink color of salmon comes from a diet rich in crustaceans that contain carotenoids, specifically astaxanthin, which is also a powerful antioxidant.

Serving with Wine or Beverages

Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé pairs well with the salmon burgers, balancing the fresh flavors of the fish and herbs.
Beer Pairing: A light lager or pilsner can complement the slight tanginess of the slaw while not overpowering the flavors of the salmon.
Non-Alcoholic Options: For a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage, try serving these burgers with an iced green tea infused with lemon or a sparkling water flavored with cucumber and mint.

Conclusion

These Yummy Salmon Burgers with Tangy Cabbage Slaw are a versatile, delicious, and healthy meal that comes together quickly with pantry staples. Whether served on a bun, over a salad, or alongside your favorite sides, they provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they’re easily customizable to various dietary needs, making them a great addition to your recipe collection for any season or occasion. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends with its fresh taste and simple preparation.