Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa are a fresh and flavorful take on classic burgers. These juicy salmon patties are seasoned to perfection, grilled until crispy, and topped with a vibrant avocado salsa. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner or a tasty summer BBQ option, these salmon burgers are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The avocado salsa adds a bright and zesty twist.
- Easy to Make: Quick prep with simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Burgers:
- 1 1/2 pounds fresh salmon, skin removed and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- 4 burger buns (whole wheat or brioche)
- Lettuce leaves
- Optional: Sliced cheese, pickles, or your favorite condiments
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Salmon Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. - Form the Patties:
Shape the mixture into 4 evenly sized patties. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to help them firm up. - Make the Avocado Salsa:
In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Gently mix and set aside. - Grill the Salmon Patties:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the salmon patties for 4-5 minutes per side until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. - Toast the Buns (Optional):
Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden. - Assemble the Burgers:
Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun. Add the grilled salmon patty, spoon on the avocado salsa, and top with the remaining bun. - Serve:
Serve the burgers immediately with your favorite side dishes like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4 salmon burgers
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add Some Heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon patties.
- Make It Low-Carb: Serve the salmon patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Try Different Toppings: Use mango salsa, pickled onions, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
- Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned salmon. Just be sure to drain it well and remove any large bones or skin.
How do I prevent the salmon patties from falling apart?
Chill the patties before grilling and make sure the mixture isn’t too wet. The egg and breadcrumbs act as binders to help hold them together.
Can I cook these in a skillet instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Cook the patties in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.
Is it okay to use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
What kind of buns are best for these burgers?
Brioche, whole wheat, or potato buns work well. You can also use lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
How can I add more flavor to the avocado salsa?
Add a bit of minced garlic, diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cumin for extra flavor.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of grilling?
Yes, bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I add cheese to these burgers?
Sure! Melt a slice of your favorite cheese on the patties during the last minute of grilling.
What sides go well with salmon burgers?
Serve with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, a simple green salad, or grilled vegetables.
Conclusion
Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa are a fresh and delicious alternative to traditional beef burgers. These healthy and flavorful patties are easy to make and perfect for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. The creamy avocado salsa adds a vibrant and zesty touch that complements the rich salmon perfectly. Try this recipe for a satisfying and nutritious meal that your family will love!
Print
Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa are a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Combining fresh salmon patties with a zesty avocado salsa, this dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a nutritious family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Burgers:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 poblano pepper, seeded and chopped (or bell pepper as a milder substitute)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice sweatnet.com+2foodyhealthylife.com+2laughingspatula.com+2
- 1/2 teaspoon salt sweatnet.com+1laughingspatula.com+1
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil, for grilling
- 4 burger buns (optional)
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 1 large ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/2 poblano pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
Prepare the Salmon Patties:
- Finely chop the salmon fillet or pulse in a food processor until coarsely ground, ensuring some texture remains.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, green onions, chopped poblano pepper, lemon or lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty.
-
Grill the Salmon Patties:
- Preheat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the salmon patties on the grill and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.foodyhealthylife.com
-
Prepare the Avocado Salsa:
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the diced avocado, chopped poblano pepper, green onions, lemon or lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss lightly to mix without mashing the avocado too much.
-
Assemble the Burgers:
- If using buns, lightly toast them on the grill for about 1 minute.
- Place each salmon patty on the bottom half of a bun (or on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option).
- Top each patty with a generous spoonful of the avocado salsa.
- Cover with the top half of the bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- Poblano Pepper: Poblano peppers add a mild heat and rich flavor. Removing seeds and veins reduces the heat. For a milder taste, substitute with bell pepper.
- Binder Alternatives: If following a gluten-free, Paleo, or Whole30 diet, substitute panko breadcrumbs with almond flour, whole oatmeal (not quick-cook), cooked quinoa, or couscous.
- Cooking Method: If a grill is not available, these salmon burgers can also be cooked in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil.