Introduction

Salmon burgers offer a fresh and flavorful alternative to traditional beef patties, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Featuring wild-caught salmon and a creamy avocado garlic sauce, this recipe is both delicious and easy to prepare.

The image shows three salmon patties, each placed on a large green lettuce leaf on a white plate. Each patty is topped with a small dollop of green creamy sauce, thin slices of red and white radishes, and small green herb pieces. Around the plate, there are several lemon wedges adding a yellow contrast. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with extra lemon wedges and radish slices visible in the soft-focused background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces wild-caught salmon, baked and chopped (may substitute canned)
1/2 large lemon, juiced (~2 tablespoons) + ½ teaspoon lemon zest
1 small shallot, minced (may substitute 2 cloves garlic, minced)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (may substitute 1 teaspoon dried dill)
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs
1/4 cup almond flour
1 tablespoon coconut oil or ghee/clarified butter
1 medium avocado, halved and pit removed
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh dill (may substitute 1 teaspoon dried dill)
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ teaspoon fine salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the baked and chopped salmon, lemon juice and zest, minced shallot, sliced green onions, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, eggs, and almond flour. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated. If the mixture feels too wet, gradually add additional almond flour one tablespoon at a time until it holds together well.
Step 2: Shape the salmon mixture into 8 small patties. Handle carefully as they may fall apart before cooking. If not cooking immediately, refrigerate the patties for up to 24 hours to help them firm up.
Step 3: Heat coconut oil or ghee in a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
Step 4: Place the patties carefully into the hot pan. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until patties are cooked through and have a golden crust. Listen for a sizzle when placing patties in the pan, which means the oil is at the right temperature.
Step 5: For the avocado garlic sauce, combine avocado, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Serve the salmon burgers on buns, a bed of lettuce greens, or wrapped in lettuce leaves. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a dollop of avocado garlic sauce on top if desired.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer, swap shallots for garlic to add a stronger flavor to the patties.
Use canned salmon as a convenient substitute for baked salmon without sacrificing taste.
For a grain-free option, almond flour provides a light binder; alternatively, try finely ground oats.
If patties seem fragile, chilling them before cooking helps them hold their shape better.
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain their texture. The avocado garlic sauce is best prepared fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; stir before serving to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

A crispy golden-brown patty sits on a bright green butter lettuce leaf, which forms the base layer on a white square plate. On top of the patty is a creamy green sauce with a slightly chunky texture, topped with two thin slices of radish showing their white centers and red edges. Small green onion pieces and a sprig of dill are scattered over the radishes and around the plate. A lemon wedge with a pale yellow color is placed to the side on the plate, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for the patties?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon; just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before baking and chopping to avoid soggy patties.

Can I bake the salmon burgers instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely. To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.