Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo are a delicious twist on traditional burgers, combining the richness of fresh salmon with the aromatic flavors of basil and lemon in a creamy mayo sauce. These burgers are a healthy alternative to beef burgers, offering a light, flavorful meal that’s perfect for summer grilling or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce and tomato for garnish
Directions
- In a food processor, pulse the salmon until finely chopped.
- In a bowl, mix together the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into 4 patties.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, basil, and lemon juice.
- Spread the basil mayo on the hamburger buns.
- Place the cooked salmon patties on the buns and top with lettuce and tomato.
- Serve and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Spicy Basil Mayo: Add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to the basil mayo for a spicy kick.
- Grilled Salmon Patties: For a smokier flavor, grill the patties instead of pan-frying them.
- Add Cheese: Melt a slice of your favorite cheese (like cheddar or Swiss) on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the salmon with mashed chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian patty.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. The mayo mixture can also be stored separately and used as a topping when reheating.
10 FAQs
- Can I use canned salmon for this recipe? Yes, canned salmon works well as long as you drain and flake it properly before mixing with the other ingredients.
- Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked through.
- How do I know when the salmon patties are cooked through? The patties should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center. You can check with a fork; the salmon should flake easily.
- Can I freeze the salmon patties? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet and then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What can I serve with these salmon burgers? Serve them with a side of sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or a corn on the cob for a complete meal.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the salmon mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until ready to cook.
- What kind of buns should I use? Any type of hamburger bun works, but brioche or whole wheat buns add extra flavor and texture.
- Can I make the basil mayo ahead of time? Yes, the basil mayo can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- What if I don’t like basil? You can substitute basil with other herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Can I add other toppings to these burgers? Yes, you can add any of your favorite toppings like avocado, pickles, or onions for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo are a fresh and flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers. With a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior, paired with a zesty basil mayo, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a healthy, satisfying meal. Whether served on a warm bun or with a light side, these burgers are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.