If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and hearty satisfaction all in one bite, the Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These salmon burgers are beautifully tender and packed with herbs, while the crisp, tangy slaw adds the perfect refreshing crunch. It’s a simple, delightful meal that balances protein and vegetables effortlessly, and once you try it, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to prepare a gourmet-level burger right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you probably have around or can easily find. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of texture, brightness, and that satisfying bite we all crave in a good burger and slaw combo.
- Cooked salmon (12-14 ounces): Canned salmon works great, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Eggs (2): These help bind the patties together, ensuring they hold their shape during cooking.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Adds body and a little crunch to the burger’s texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory note that enhances the salmon’s flavor.
- Fresh herbs (1/4 cup): Chives, parsley, or dill brighten and freshen each bite with a herbal aroma.
- Lemon juice (a squeeze): Adds a hint of acidity and zest to balance richness.
- Olive oil: For pan-frying, lending a lovely crispness and golden crust.
- Green cabbage (1 head): Finely shredded for the slaw, providing crispness and a mild, sweet base.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): Makes the slaw creamy without heaviness, adding a touch of tang.
- White distilled vinegar (2-3 tablespoons): Gives the slaw a zing that keeps it refreshing and balanced.
- Salt (1 teaspoon for slaw): To season and enhance the slaw’s flavors.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon for slaw): Adds subtle warmth and depth to the slaw’s taste.
- Fresh herbs (1/2 cup for slaw): A mix of chives, parsley, and dill to keep the slaw lively and colorful.
- Olive oil (a drizzle for slaw): Brings all the slaw ingredients together with a silky finish.
How to Make Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Patties
Start by flaking the cooked salmon apart with a fork to get nice, even chunks without mushiness. Combine this with eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, fresh herbs, and a good squeeze of lemon juice in a bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. Then, shape the mixture into either three large or four medium patties depending on your preference. This step sets the foundation for wonderfully tender but sturdy salmon burgers.
Step 2: Fry the Salmon Patties
Heat a splash of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat—this gives the patties their coveted golden exterior. Add the patties to the pan and cook for several minutes on each side until they develop a crisp, golden-brown crust. Remember to give them some space and flip carefully. After frying, place the cooked patties on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt to enhance flavor and texture.
Step 3: Whip Up the Fresh Slaw
In a large bowl, toss together the finely shredded green cabbage with Greek yogurt, white distilled vinegar, salt, garlic powder, and fresh herbs. Add a drizzle of olive oil to bring everything together with that silky touch. Mix until evenly combined and taste to see if it needs an extra splash of vinegar or seasoning. This slaw is creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbaceous notes—a beautiful contrast to the rich salmon patties.
Step 4: Assemble Your Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw Recipe
Serve those warm, crispy salmon burgers atop a generous bed of creamy cabbage slaw. For extra flair, add a dollop of yogurt, a swirl of olive oil, and sprinkle some more fresh herbs on top. This step not only adds to the flavor but also makes the presentation truly inviting. Each bite combines the crispy, tender, creamy, and fresh perfectly—this is what makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser every time.
How to Serve Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley make beautiful garnishes, adding bursts of color and a lively aroma to elevate the burger visually and taste-wise. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil brings a subtle richness and shine, while a small dollop of Greek yogurt adds a cooling creaminess that complements the salmon perfectly.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides that won’t compete with your main event. Think roasted sweet potato wedges, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, or even grilled corn on the cob. Each offers texture and flavor balance, enhancing your dining experience without overwhelming the delicate salmon and slaw flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing the salmon patties inside toasted buns for a classic burger experience, or go bunless and serve them alongside extra slaw on a stylish platter for a light, gluten-free meal. You can also get adventurous and add avocado slices or a spicy aioli to the plate for a flavor boost. Presentation is all about combining vibrant colors and textures that make your meal as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover salmon burgers or slaw, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The patties will keep well for up to two days, and the slaw should be enjoyed within the same timeframe to retain its freshness and crispness.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked salmon patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain great texture for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking. Avoid freezing the slaw, as the yogurt base will separate and become watery.
Reheating
Reheat salmon patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to warm through and re-crisp the outside. Microwaving is possible but can cause sogginess. Serve the slaw cold or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of cooked or canned?
Absolutely! You can cook fresh salmon by baking or pan-searing it until just cooked through, then flake it for the patties. Just make sure it cools before mixing with the other ingredients to get the best texture.
Is the slaw dairy-free if I substitute the yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or even a light mayonnaise to keep it creamy and tangy without dairy. Just adjust seasoning to taste.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture will remain similar, and the burgers will stay delicious.
What herbs work best in this recipe?
Classic choices like dill, parsley, and chives offer a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs perfectly with salmon. You can experiment with cilantro or basil for a different twist, but sticking to these herbs keeps the traditional bright, clean taste.
Can I grill these salmon burgers instead of pan-frying?
Yes, grilling is a wonderful option. Just oil the grill grate well and handle the patties gently when flipping. Grilling will add a smoky nuance that complements the fresh slaw beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw Recipe is a sparkling example of how fresh, simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It’s comforting, colorful, and packed with flavors that celebrate the best of both sea and garden. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—happy cooking, and here’s to many delicious meals ahead!
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Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 large or 4 medium burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Salmon Burgers with Fresh Slaw offer a delightful combination of flaky, flavorful salmon patties pan-fried to a golden crisp and served atop a creamy, tangy cabbage slaw. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal, the recipe blends fresh herbs and a zesty dressing to elevate classic salmon burgers with a refreshing crunch.
Ingredients
For Salmon Burgers
- 12–14 ounces cooked salmon (canned is great)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill)
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- Olive oil for pan-frying
For Fresh Slaw
- 1 head green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2–3 tablespoons white distilled vinegar (more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, and dill)
- A drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Patties: Flake the cooked salmon apart with a fork. In a bowl, combine the salmon with eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Form the mixture into 3 large or 4 medium-sized patties.
- Pan-Fry the Patties: Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon patties and fry for a few minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy crust. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Make the Fresh Slaw: In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage, Greek yogurt, white distilled vinegar, salt, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning or vinegar to your preference.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the warm salmon burgers on a bed of creamy cabbage slaw. Optionally, top each burger with an extra dollop of yogurt, a swirl of olive oil, and additional fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Using canned salmon makes this recipe quick and convenient without sacrificing flavor.
- You can customize the herbs based on preference—for a brighter taste, consider adding dill or chives.
- Be gentle when forming patties to prevent them from falling apart while cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier slaw, add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
- Serve the burgers with whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
