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If you’re craving a seafood twist on a classic favorite, this Easy Salmon Burger Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the fresh, delicate flavor of salmon with zingy Cajun spices and a creamy lemon mayo that together create a burger experience bursting with vibrant taste and satisfying texture. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or just looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe makes crafting gourmet-quality salmon burgers at home absolutely effortless and fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this Easy Salmon Burger Recipe shine. Each item plays an essential role—from the tender salmon and bright lemon juice to the crunchy panko and fragrant herbs, every component balances perfectly for a mouthwatering final result.
- 1 pound skinless fresh salmon: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and flaky texture without any fishy aftertaste.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds a refreshing brightness that lifts the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: Gives the burgers a subtle kick and depth of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors in the salmon mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory backdrop to the taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped finely): Introduces fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.
- 1 tablespoon scallions (chopped): Brings a mild oniony crunch that complements the salmon.
- Panko (Japanese breadcrumbs): Essential for creating a crispy coating to keep the patties intact and crunchy on the outside.
- Olive oil (for frying): A heart-healthy fat that browns the patties beautifully without overpowering flavor.
- 1/3 cup mayo: The luscious base for the tangy lemon mayo spread.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for mayo): Infuses the sauce with an extra citrus zing.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for mayo): Adds savory depth to the creamy sauce.
- Salt & pepper, to taste (for mayo): To make sure the dressing is perfectly balanced.
- 4 buns: Soft, sturdy carriers for all the delicious layers.
- Lettuce/salad greens/arugula (to taste): Provides a fresh, crisp bite to contrast the warm patty.
- Avocado (to taste): Adds buttery richness and a creamy texture that’s pure indulgence.
How to Make Easy Salmon Burger Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Mayo
This tangy lemon mayo is the secret sauce that ties your salmon burger together. Simply mix mayo, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings until it sings with zing and creaminess. Set it aside so those flavors marry while you prepare the patties.
Step 2: Process the Salmon
Take your skinless fresh salmon and cut it into smaller chunks, then pulse a few times in a food processor until it’s loosely combined—think coarse flakes rather than a paste. This technique keeps your burgers tender and flaky. If you prefer a hands-on approach, finely chop the salmon with a sharp knife—it works just as well!
Step 3: Mix the Burger Ingredients
Transfer the processed salmon into a bowl and add lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, fresh parsley, and chopped scallions. Use your hands for a gentle but thorough mix, ensuring every bit of salmon is seasoned without mashing it into oblivion. This creates the perfect texture for your patties.
Step 4: Coat the Patties with Panko
Pour a small amount of panko onto a plate—you can always add more later if needed. Shape the salmon mixture into four evenly sized patties, remembering they won’t shrink like beef, so size them just right. Gently press the patties into the panko to form a crispy exterior that will lock in moisture during cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Salmon Patties
Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they develop a golden crust and feel firm but tender when pressed. This quick cooking keeps the salmon juicy inside.
Step 6: Assemble Your Burger
Spread a generous layer of the lemon mayo on each bun, then add your cooked salmon patties. Top with fresh greens and creamy slices of avocado for contrast. Stack it all together for a burger that looks as good as it tastes. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Easy Salmon Burger Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing your salmon burgers, fresh and simple is best. Try crisp butter lettuce or peppery arugula for a leafy crunch. Creamy avocado slices add a luscious texture that melts into every bite. Feel free to sprinkle extra chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top for a zesty finish that complements the Cajun spice beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Easy Salmon Burger Recipe with the right sides can elevate your meal to restaurant quality. Light, crisp options like a simple mixed green salad or crunchy coleslaw work brilliantly. Or indulge in golden roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries for a more hearty accompaniment. The freshness of the burger balances perfectly with both hearty and bright sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests or shake up your dinner routine? Serve the salmon burgers open-faced on toasted buns with dollops of lemon mayo artistically drizzled on top. Alternatively, turn your burgers into sliders for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or pack the patties into lettuce wraps for a low-carb delight. These twists keep the Easy Salmon Burger Recipe fresh and exciting each time you make it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extra salmon patties? Cool them to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the buns and lemon mayo separate to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the patties gently to retain their tender texture.
Freezing
Salmon patties freeze beautifully when formed but uncooked. Lay them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you want to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and fry as usual—perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners.
Reheating
To bring your leftover salmon burgers back to life, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of olive oil. This method crisps up the panko coating again without drying out the salmon. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can make the texture rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon as long as it is fully thawed and patted dry before preparation. Fresh salmon tends to hold texture better, but frozen is a convenient alternative if handled properly.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
No worries at all! You can finely chop the salmon with a sharp knife. It just takes a little more time and careful cutting to get the right consistency, but the flavor and texture will still be fantastic.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Gentle handling is key. Pulsing the fish to loosely combine rather than pureeing helps, and coating the formed patties in panko adds a protective crust. Cooking them over medium-high heat rather than too low also helps them hold together nicely.
Can I make these burgers spicy?
Absolutely! Feel free to increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You could also mix in finely diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the lemon mayo for some heat.
What buns work best with Easy Salmon Burger Recipe?
Soft brioche or potato buns are ideal because they are sturdy enough to hold the patties and toppings but still tender enough to enjoy every bite. Toasting the buns before assembling adds even more texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Salmon Burger Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special but comes together in just minutes. Its fresh flavors, vibrant spices, and satisfying textures make it a true crowd-pleaser whether for a casual weeknight or an impressive weekend meal. I can’t wait for you to try it—get your ingredients ready, and prepare to fall in love with salmon all over again!
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Print
Easy Salmon Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This easy salmon burger recipe delivers a flavorful, juicy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Featuring fresh salmon blended with zesty Cajun seasoning, herbs, and scallions, these patties are coated in crispy panko and pan-fried to perfection. Served on soft buns with a tangy lemon garlic mayo and fresh greens, these salmon burgers are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Salmon Patties
- 1 pound skinless fresh salmon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon scallions, chopped
- Panko (Japanese breadcrumbs), for coating the patties
- Olive oil, for frying (1-2 tablespoons)
Lemon Garlic Mayo
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
To Assemble
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce or salad greens (such as butter leaf lettuce), to taste
- Avocado slices, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the lemon garlic mayo: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside.
- Process the salmon: Cut the salmon into smaller pieces and pulse a few times in a food processor until the mixture is loosely combined but still chunky. Alternatively, finely chop the salmon with a knife to achieve similar texture; avoid overprocessing.
- Mix the patty ingredients: Transfer the salmon to a bowl and add lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, chopped parsley, and scallions. Gently mix with your hands until well combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture.
- Coat patties with panko: Spread a small amount of panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Form the salmon mixture into 4 evenly sized patties, making them fairly thin for even cooking. Lightly press each patty into the panko crumbs to coat the surface well, helping them hold together.
- Heat the skillet: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium-high until hot but not smoking.
- Cook the salmon patties: Place the patties gently in the skillet, cooking in two batches if necessary without overcrowding. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Handle carefully as the patties are delicate.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread the lemon garlic mayo on the bottom halves of the buns. Place the cooked salmon patties on top, then layer with lettuce or salad greens and avocado slices. Cover with the top buns and serve immediately.
Notes
- Be careful not to over-process the salmon; keeping some texture helps the patties hold together better.
- Using panko crumbs gives a light and crispy coating that enhances texture without heaviness.
- If patties feel too delicate, refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes before cooking to firm up.
- Feel free to customize toppings with tomato slices, pickles, or your favorite sauces.
- These patties cook quickly, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking and drying out the salmon.
