Salmon Burgers with Slaw: High-Protein Twist for Lunch

Salmon Burgers with Slaw are a delightful twist on the classic burger, bringing together the rich, savory flavors of fresh salmon and the crisp, refreshing crunch of slaw. These burgers are not only packed with flavor but are also a healthier alternative to traditional beef patties, making them a perfect choice for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. The combination of zesty slaw and juicy salmon provides a satisfying bite that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Salmon Burgers with Slaw

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will absolutely love this recipe for several reasons. Firstly, the flavor profile is simply divine; the natural richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy slaw, creating a balanced and delicious dish. Secondly, these salmon burgers are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. They come together quickly and can be cooked on the grill, stovetop, or even baked, allowing for flexibility based on your kitchen setup. Additionally, this recipe fits well into a health-conscious lifestyle, being high in omega-3 fatty acids and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Tips and Tricks

For the best salmon burgers, follow these tips and tricks:

  • Use fresh salmon fillets for optimal flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh salmon, frozen works too—just make sure to thaw it completely before using.
  • When mixing the salmon, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers; you want the mixture to hold together without being overly compact.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the salmon mixture, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
  • To ensure even cooking, shape the patties to be about 1 inch thick and use parchment paper to keep them from sticking together before cooking.

Make Ahead Tips

To make your salmon burgers with slaw easier, you can prep several components ahead of time:

  • The slaw can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge; the flavors will meld beautifully and it will stay fresh for up to two days.
  • Salmon patties can be formed and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to keep them covered to avoid drying out.
  • You can also pre-make any sauces or condiments you plan to use and store them in the fridge for quick access on cooking day.
Salmon Burgers with Slaw

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your salmon burgers with these variations:

  • Swap out salmon for tuna or even white fish for a different flavor profile.
  • Kick up the spice by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon mixture.
  • For a lighter version, serve the burgers on lettuce wraps instead of buns.
  • Experiment with different slaw ingredients, like adding apples for sweetness or using a different vinegar in the dressing.

How to Serve

Serve your salmon burgers with slaw on toasted brioche or whole grain buns for an extra layer of flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs or a slice of avocado for a creamy touch. On the side, consider serving crispy sweet potato fries, a light salad, or grilled corn for a complete meal. Presentation is key, so stack the burger high and let the colorful slaw peek out from the sides for an Instagram-worthy shot!

Salmon Burgers with Slaw

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, pair your salmon burgers with a refreshing white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer for a more casual vibe. If you prefer cocktails, consider a gin and tonic or a cucumber mojito, which will complement the freshness of the slaw beautifully. For dessert, a fruit sorbet or a light lemon tart would round off the meal perfectly.

How to Store

Leftover salmon burgers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place the patties in an airtight container to keep them fresh. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, bake the burgers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or pan-fry them gently to retain their moisture.

Equipment Needed

You’ll need a few essential tools for this recipe:

  • A food processor is ideal for finely chopping the salmon and mixing ingredients seamlessly.
  • A non-stick skillet or grill for cooking the patties. Alternatively, you can use a baking sheet for oven baking.
  • A mixing bowl for combining the slaw ingredients, and a whisk for blending the dressing.
Salmon Burgers with Slaw

Dietary Adaptations

For those with dietary restrictions, here are some suggestions:

  • To make this dish vegan, substitute the salmon with canned chickpeas or a plant-based seafood alternative. Use a vegan mayonnaise for the slaw dressing.
  • For dairy-free options, ensure your slaw dressing is free from dairy products, and opt for a dairy-free bun.
  • Nut allergies can be addressed by ensuring all ingredients, especially any condiments or sauces, are nut-free.

Seasonal Adaptations

Seasonality can play a big role in how you make your salmon burgers with slaw:

  • In the summer, fresh herbs like basil or mint can be added to the slaw for a vibrant touch.
  • In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash to the slaw for a sweet and hearty flavor.
  • During winter months, use hearty greens like kale instead of cabbage in your slaw for added nutrition.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use canned salmon?
Yes, you can use canned salmon, but be sure to drain it well and flake it into smaller pieces to prevent a mushy texture.

How do I know when the salmon burgers are done?
The internal temperature should reach 145°F, or they should be opaque and flaky in the center.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, almond flour, or even ground oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.

How To Make Salmon Burgers with Slaw

Yield: 4

Salmon Burgers with Slaw

Salmon-Burgers-with-Slaw

Salmon Burgers with Slaw are a delightful twist on the classic burger, bringing together the rich, savory flavors of fresh salmon and the crisp, refreshing crunch of slaw. 

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Additional Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 4 burger buns

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Using a sharp knife, finely chop the salmon fillets or pulse them in a food processor until coarsely ground. Do not over-process; you want some texture.
  2. Mix the Burger Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Shape the Patties: Form the salmon mixture into 4 equal patties, about 1 inch thick. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up.
  4. Prepare the Slaw: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cabbage and carrots. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine. Set aside.
  5. Cook the Patties: Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat. Cook the salmon patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Assemble the Burgers: Toast the burger buns if desired. Place a salmon patty on the bottom half of each bun, top with the slaw, and then add the top bun. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 559Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 20gCholesterol 77mgSodium 677mgCarbohydrates 45gFiber 3gSugar 13gProtein 32g

Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

Salmon burgers with slaw are a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer while staying health-conscious. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply looking to switch up your weeknight meals, these burgers will surely impress. Get ready to savor the deliciousness and enjoy every bite!

Soumyadip Chatterjee
Founder of easyshrimprecipes.com
Hi, this is Soumyadip, creator of easyshrimprecipes.com. I love cooking and sharing new tasty recipes to the entire world. So what are you waiting for, join me on a delicious journey.
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