Description
Juicy Salmon Burgers with Avocado Smash
Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties:
1 lb fresh salmon, skin removed, finely chopped
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Avocado Smash:
1 ripe avocado
Juice of 1/2 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
To Assemble:
4 burger buns, toasted
Lettuce leaves
Thinly sliced red onion
Directions
Make the Salmon Patties: In a large bowl, mix the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, egg, dill, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 equal-sized patties.
Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Avocado Smash: Mash the avocado in a small bowl with lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Burgers: Layer lettuce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add the salmon patty, top with avocado smash and red onion slices, and place the top bun on.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with chips, salad, or your favorite side dish!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Salmon: Ensure all skin and pin bones are removed from the 1 lb of fresh salmon. Finely chop it with a sharp knife until it has a coarse, ground-like texture. Avoid using a food processor, as it can make the mixture pasty.
2. Mix the Patty Ingredients: In your large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko, egg, dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mix gently but thoroughly until just combined.
3. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently shape each into a patty about 3/4-inch thick. Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook evenly and stay flat.
4. Cook to Perfection: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Flip carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
5. Assemble with Care: Toast your buns lightly. Spread a generous layer of the avocado smash on the bottom bun, add lettuce and a salmon patty, then top with red onion and the bun top. This order helps prevent the bottom bun from getting soggy.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers are incredibly versatile. For a classic pairing, serve with crispy sweet potato fries or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. To elevate the meal, consider a side of tangy coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob. For a low-carb option, serve the patty over a fresh garden salad with the avocado smash used as a dressing.
How-to Summary
Finely chop fresh salmon and mix with panko, egg, dill, mustard, and garlic. Form into four patties, making a small indentation in the center of each. Pan-fry in olive oil for 3-4 minutes per side. Meanwhile, mash avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Assemble burgers on toasted buns with lettuce, the cooked patty, avocado smash, and red onion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh? Yes, but drain it very well. The texture will be denser and the flavor stronger. You may need slightly less panko as canned salmon is drier.
How do I know when the salmon patties are fully cooked? The patties should be firm to the touch and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The exterior will be a uniform golden brown.
Can I make the patty mixture ahead of time? You can mix the ingredients and form the patties up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs? Regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even rolled oats make good substitutes. The panko provides a lighter, crispier texture.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart? Ensure your mixture is well-combined and chilled before cooking. Avoid over-mixing, and make sure your skillet is properly preheated so a crust forms quickly upon contact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-mixing the patty ingredients: This compacts the salmon and can lead to tough, dense burgers. Mix gently until just combined.
- Using salmon that is too wet: Pat your chopped salmon dry with a paper towel before mixing to help the binders work properly.
- Flipping the patties too soon: Allow a proper crust to form in the pan before flipping. If you try to move them too early, they may stick and break.
- Making the patties too thick: Thick patties will brown on the outside before the inside is fully cooked. Aim for 3/4-inch thickness.
Conclusion
This Juicy Salmon Burger with Avocado Smash is a standout recipe that proves healthy eating can be deeply satisfying and flavorful. In just about 20 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that is packed with omega-3s, lean protein, and creamy, healthy fats. The combination of the savory, herb-flecked salmon patty with the bright, cool avocado smash is truly unbeatable. It’s a quick, elegant, and nutritious dish perfect for any weeknight dinner or casual weekend gathering. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your culinary rotation.