Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa Recipe

Summers buzz with excitement when salmon burgers sizzle on backyard grills, promising a fresh twist on classic patties.

Crisp ingredients dance together, creating a vibrant plate that screams casual elegance.

Pacific Northwest flavors shine through tender fish mixed with herbs and seasonings.

Coastal cooking comes alive with these compact, flavor-packed rounds that break away from traditional burger expectations.

Chopped herbs and delicate avocado salsa add bright, zesty notes to each bite.

Lean protein meets creamy texture in this simple yet sophisticated meal that you can whip up in minutes.

Dive into this recipe and watch everyone at the table ask for seconds.

Tips That Improve Grilled Salmon Burgers

• Salmon Selection Strategy: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon with firm flesh and minimal odor for the best burger texture and flavor.
• Patty Preservation Technique: Chill salmon patties in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before grilling to help them hold their shape and prevent crumbling.
• Moisture Management Method: Add a small amount of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the salmon mixture to keep the patties tender and prevent dryness during grilling.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spice Boost Hack: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the salmon mixture for an extra layer of aromatic complexity and bright flavor.

How to Keep Salmon Burgers Juicy Later

• Store leftover salmon burgers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Separate patties with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Warm patties at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, ensuring they don't dry out. Wrap loosely in foil to retain moisture.
• Quickly reheat for 30-45 seconds, but expect slightly less crispy texture. Best used as a last resort.
• Keep avocado salsa separate and add fresh when reheating to maintain its vibrant flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Grilled Salmon Burgers

• Enhance Salmon Burger Experience with Perfect Pairings
• Crisp, unoaked Chardonnay complements the salmon's rich flavor, balancing the burger's spicy poblano pepper and creamy avocado with its bright, citrusy notes.
• Create a tangy cabbage slaw with lime juice, cilantro, and a touch of honey to add refreshing crunch and acidity that cuts through the salmon's richness.
• Whip up a quick garlic aioli with roasted garlic, mayonnaise, and lemon zest to add a creamy, aromatic layer that elevates the burger's complex flavors.
• Prepare a light, cool cucumber salad with fresh mint and a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the grilled salmon's warmth and spice.

Fun Variations of Salmon Burgers with Salsa

• Gluten-Free Salmon Burger: Replace panko breadcrumbs with ground almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to create a celiac-friendly version that maintains the burger's delicious texture.
• Spicy Mexican-Style Salmon Burger: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, and a sprinkle of cumin to the salmon mixture for a zesty, bold flavor profile that packs extra heat.
• Low-Carb Salmon Lettuce Wrap: Skip the bun entirely and wrap the salmon patty in large butter lettuce leaves, serving with the avocado salsa for a lighter, carb-conscious meal option.
• Mediterranean Salmon Burger: Mix chopped fresh dill, crumbled feta cheese, and minced garlic into the salmon patty, then top with tzatziki sauce instead of avocado salsa for a Greek-inspired variation.

Salmon Burger FAQs You Should Know

• How do I prevent the salmon patties from falling apart on the grill?

Use very fresh salmon and ensure it’s patted dry before mixing. Bind the mixture well with egg and breadcrumbs, and refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes before grilling to help them hold their shape. Handle the patties gently when placing them on the grill and only flip once.

• Can I make these salmon burgers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salmon patties in advance. Mix and shape the patties, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. If freezing, place parchment paper between patties and store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

• What if I don't have a grill or grill pan?

You can cook salmon patties in a hot skillet with a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Pan-fry for about 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• How do I know when the salmon patties are fully cooked?

Salmon patties should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. They’ll look opaque and firm when touched, with a golden-brown exterior.

What Makes Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa Pop

• Elevate Your Meal Prep
• Whip up these burgers in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous weekend cooking adventures.
• Salmon delivers omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, transforming a casual burger into a nutritious meal that supports heart and brain health.
• Switch out ingredients like poblano peppers for jalapeños or adjust salsa components to match personal taste preferences, making this recipe wonderfully adaptable for different palates.
• Enables outdoor cooking with minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy fresh air while preparing a delicious meal that impresses family and friends.

Grilled Salmon Burger Ingredient List

• Salmon Fillet: Fresh fish base for burger patties, rich in omega-3 and protein, best when wild-caught or high-quality fresh salmon.

• Panko Breadcrumbs, Egg: Create structure and help hold salmon patties together, panko adds light crispiness.

• Green Onions, Poblano Pepper: Provide fresh, mild spicy kick and aromatic depth to salmon mixture.
• Lemon, Lime Juice: Adds bright citrus notes and helps balance salmon's richness.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall flavor profile and seasoning patty mixture.

• Avocado: Creamy, healthy fat component that adds smooth texture to salsa topping, choose ripe but firm avocados.

• Buns or Lettuce: Serving base for salmon burger, optional depending on dietary preference.

• Cooking Oil: Prevents patties from sticking to grill grates, ensures smooth cooking process.

Assembling Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Blend Salmon Goodness

• Salmon fillet
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Green onions
• Poblano pepper
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Finely chop or pulse the salmon in a food processor. Keep some texture for that perfect bite. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mixing until everything hugs together perfectly. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into gorgeous patties.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Carefully place those beautiful salmon patties on the hot surface. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully charred and cooked through. You’ll see a gorgeous golden-brown exterior that screams deliciousness.

Step 3: Create Creamy Avocado Magic

• Ripe avocado
• Poblano pepper
• Green onions
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Toss everything together with a light touch. Keep the avocado chunks intact for that perfect chunky texture.

Step 4: Burger Assembly Excitement

If using buns, give them a quick toast on the grill for extra crunch. Place each salmon patty on the bottom bun or a crisp lettuce bed. Crown each patty with a generous spoonful of that dreamy avocado salsa. Top with the other half of the bun and get ready to dive into a flavor explosion!

Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement!

Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa Recipe

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4.7 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa bring coastal California flavors to your summer menu. Fresh Pacific salmon, zesty cilantro, and creamy avocado combine for a light, protein-packed meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) salmon fillet, skin removed

Binders and Aromatics:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• ½ poblano pepper, seeded and chopped (or bell pepper as a milder substitute)

Seasonings and Cooking Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil, for grilling
• 4 burger buns (optional)

Avocado Salsa Ingredients:

• 1 large ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
• ½ poblano pepper, seeded and chopped
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Carefully deconstruct the salmon fillet into coarse chunks, maintaining a rustic texture that will provide interesting mouthfeel to the burger.
2. Thoroughly blend ground salmon with panko, whisked egg, finely minced green onions, diced poblano, citrus juice, and seasonings, ensuring even distribution of ingredients throughout the mixture.
3. Gently form the salmon mixture into four uniform patties, handling the delicate protein with care to prevent breaking.
4. Heat the grill to medium-high, creating a clean, lightly oiled surface that will prevent the salmon patties from adhering and promote beautiful caramelization.
5. Carefully place salmon patties on the hot grill, allowing each side approximately 4 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust and cook through completely.
6. While salmon grills, craft a vibrant avocado salsa by tenderly combining diced avocado, poblano, green onions, and citrus, seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
7. Quickly toast burger buns on the grill’s edges to add a crisp, warm foundation for the salmon patties.
8. Assemble burgers by nestling each grilled salmon patty onto the toasted bun and crowning with a generous spoonful of fresh avocado salsa.
9. Serve immediately to preserve the salmon’s perfect temperature and the salsa’s bright, fresh characteristics.

Notes

• Minimize handling the salmon to maintain its delicate texture and prevent the patties from becoming tough during mixing and shaping.
• Chilling the salmon patties for 15-30 minutes before grilling helps them hold together better and reduces the risk of falling apart.
• Opt for fresh salmon with firm flesh to ensure the best binding and most robust flavor in your burger patties.
• Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version that keeps the patties perfectly crisp and cohesive.
• Use a fish spatula or carefully slide a thin spatula under the patties to prevent breaking when flipping on the grill.
• For a smoky boost, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the salmon mixture or use cedar planks while grilling for extra depth of flavor.
• Create a dairy-free alternative by replacing the egg with mashed sweet potato or ground flaxseed mixed with water as a binding agent.

• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg