The flavor-packed Salmon Burgers combine the richness of fresh salmon with the brightness of lemon and dill, making them a lighter but satisfying alternative to traditional beef burgers. With just a few pantry staples and fresh herbs, you can prepare a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home in under 30 minutes.
Whether served on a toasted bun or over a bed of greens, these burgers are a great way to bring bold, coastal flavors into your everyday dinner rotation. Perfect for a summer BBQ, a quick weeknight meal, or an impressive lunch, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1½ pounds skinless salmon fillet, chopped into small pieces
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½ cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 green onions, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Lemon Dill Sauce:
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½ cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional for Serving:
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Burger buns
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Lettuce
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Tomato slices
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Red onion rings
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Pickles
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko, green onions, dill, Dijon mustard, egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
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Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
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Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the salmon patties and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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While the burgers cook, mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and set aside.
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Toast the burger buns if desired.
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Assemble the burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and a generous spoonful of lemon dill sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
When it comes to upgrading your weeknight dinners or impressing guests with something lighter yet satisfying, salmon burgers are a top-tier choice. Bursting with flavor, packed with protein and omega-3s, and topped with a refreshing lemon dill sauce, these salmon patties are the perfect fusion of health and indulgence. Whether pan-seared, grilled, or baked, they hold their own against any traditional beef burger while offering a lighter, more sophisticated profile.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about salmon burgers from what makes them work, to customization ideas, serving suggestions, health benefits, and tips for getting that perfect golden crust.
Why Choose Salmon Burgers Over Traditional Burgers?
Salmon burgers are not just a “healthy alternative”; they are a flavor-packed main course that stands on its own merit. They provide the rich, savory satisfaction of a classic burger, while also delivering the delicate taste of fresh seafood, bright herbs, and citrus. For people who are reducing red meat or simply looking to expand their dinner rotation, this recipe is a game-changer.
Unlike ground beef, salmon brings a buttery texture and unique flavor profile. The natural oils in salmon keep the patties moist without the need for much added fat, making them an excellent source of lean protein. With the right blend of breadcrumbs, herbs, and aromatics, salmon patties become cohesive and flavorful without feeling heavy or greasy.
The Secret Is in the Sauce: Why Lemon Dill Works
What elevates this dish from good to unforgettable is the lemon dill sauce. This creamy, zesty topping adds brightness and moisture, perfectly complementing the richness of the salmon. Dill is a natural companion to fish its grassy, slightly sweet profile helps lift the dish. Lemon brings acidity and vibrance, cutting through the richness and making each bite feel fresh and balanced.
Made with just a few ingredients like mayonnaise, fresh dill, and lemon juice, this sauce takes minutes to prepare and can be made ahead. It’s also versatile: slather it on your bun, drizzle it over a salmon bowl, or use it as a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Salmon Burger Texture
One common pitfall of homemade fish patties is a mushy or crumbly texture. But fear not a few simple techniques will ensure your salmon burgers are juicy, tender, and hold together perfectly.
- Use fresh or previously frozen skinless salmon: Avoid canned salmon for this particular recipe. Fresh fillets give better flavor and texture.
- Hand-chop the salmon: Don’t over-process it in a food processor, which can turn it to paste. Chopping by hand creates a chunkier, more pleasant texture.
- Don’t skip the binder: A combination of egg and panko breadcrumbs helps the patties hold their shape without becoming dense.
- Let the patties chill before cooking: A brief rest in the fridge firms them up and prevents them from falling apart in the pan.
- Use a hot skillet: For that golden crust, make sure your skillet is well-heated and oiled before placing the patties in. Avoid crowding the pan to allow for even browning.
Customization Ideas and Flavor Variations
One of the best things about salmon burgers is how flexible they are. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have in the fridge.
Spice It Up
Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the mix for heat. A spoonful of Sriracha in the lemon dill sauce can also give it a spicy edge.
Swap the Herbs
No dill on hand? Try using fresh parsley, cilantro, tarragon, or even basil. Each herb brings a new dimension of flavor.
Add Crunch
Mix finely diced celery or bell pepper into the salmon patty mixture for a bit of crunch and added freshness.
Go Gluten-Free
Replace the panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
Dairy-Free?
The lemon dill sauce can easily be made dairy-free by using egg-free or vegan mayonnaise.
What to Serve With Salmon Burgers
While the burgers can stand on their own, pairing them with the right sides takes the meal to the next level. Here are some serving ideas:
- On a bun: Choose a soft brioche bun or whole wheat roll. Toast it lightly to add texture.
- Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap the burger in large lettuce leaves and top with avocado and cucumber.
- Salads: Serve over a fresh green salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette.
- Sides: Think roasted sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a tangy coleslaw.
- Bowl-style: Add the patty to a grain bowl with brown rice, avocado, radishes, and a drizzle of lemon dill sauce.
Health Benefits of Salmon Burgers
Choosing salmon burgers isn’t just delicious — it’s also a nutritious decision. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are linked to reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and brain function. Here are some other nutritional highlights:
- High in protein: Helps support muscle repair and growth.
- Omega-3s: Good for heart health, mental clarity, and skin.
- B Vitamins: Important for energy and cell metabolism.
- Low in saturated fat: Unlike many traditional burgers.
When paired with healthy sides or served on lettuce wraps, these burgers become an incredibly balanced meal that fits many dietary lifestyles, from paleo to Mediterranean.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
If you’re a meal prep fan or looking to save time during the week, salmon burgers are a great make-ahead meal.
- Uncooked Patties: Form them and store in the refrigerator up to 1 day ahead. You can also freeze them (uncooked) between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Cooked Patties: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness.
- Lemon Dill Sauce: Can be prepared 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed jar or container.
Conclusion: A Fresh New Favorite for Your Weekly Menu
Salmon burgers with lemon dill sauce are a fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying option for anyone looking to switch up their burger routine. Whether you’re planning a casual cookout, a healthy weeknight dinner, or a flavorful lunch, these patties check all the boxes nutritious, quick to make, customizable, and crowd-pleasing.
With just a few basic ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can bring restaurant-quality seafood into your home kitchen. The bright, herby lemon dill sauce complements the salmon perfectly and adds a gourmet touch without complicating the process.
So, the next time you’re craving a burger but want something lighter, fresher, and full of clean ingredients give these salmon burgers a try. You’ll find they’re not just an alternative to beef burgers, but a new favorite all their own.