20 Minute Fresh Salmon Burgers

Quick and Delicious Salmon Burgers: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending to-do list, whipping up something elaborate is often impossible. That's why I've fallen in love with recipes that are both quick and satisfying, and these 20-minute salmon burgers are a perfect example. They’re packed with flavor, protein, and healthy fats, and they’re on the table in a flash—a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights.

The best part? These salmon burgers are incredibly versatile. I often adapt the recipe based on what fresh herbs I have on hand. Sometimes it's parsley and dill, other times it’s a mix of chives and cilantro. The subtle variations in herbs add a delightful layer of freshness each time. The kids love them, my husband raves about them, and honestly, I often find myself making a double batch just so I have leftovers for lunch the next day. The ease of preparation is amazing; everything gets quickly processed, combined, and formed into patties. Then it's just a quick sear in a skillet, and dinner is served! The whole family is happy, and I haven’t spent hours slaving away in the kitchen.

Beyond the Weeknight: These salmon burgers aren’t just for busy weeknights. They’re equally perfect for a casual weekend lunch or a quick dinner party. I’ve even served them at outdoor gatherings, grilling them on the barbecue for a smoky twist. The possibilities are endless! Serve them on whole-wheat buns with your favorite toppings, or simply enjoy them as patties with a side salad for a lighter meal. No matter how you choose to serve them, these salmon burgers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Success:

• Fresh Salmon is Key: Using fresh, high-quality salmon makes all the difference in taste and texture. Look for salmon that’s firm and has a bright, slightly pink color.
• Don’t Overprocess: Pulse the salmon in the food processor just until it’s ground and slightly sticky. You don’t want to over-process it and make it mushy.
• Customize Your Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Experiment with a little bit of everything. Don't be afraid to get creative!
• Perfect the Patty: Make sure your patties are about ¾ inch thick for even cooking. If they're too thin they will dry out.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your patties and the heat of your skillet. Always check for doneness by inserting a thermometer into the thickest part of the patty; it should register 145°F (63°C).

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve on hamburger buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite condiments.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or a side of quinoa.
• Enjoy as a standalone patty with a squeeze of lemon juice.

This simple recipe has become a staple in my home, a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a quick, easy, and delicious way to incorporate more fish into your diet, even on the busiest of days. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• In a food processor, pulse the bread for 40-60 seconds until the bread resembles coarse crumbs.
• Pour the crumbs in a large bowl.
• Add the salmon chunks to the food processor and pulse until the salmon is ground and sticks together (about 30-60 seconds).
• Add the salmon to the large bowl.
• To the salmon and breadcrumbs add the remaining ingredients: lemon juice, red onion, mayonnaise, mustard, fresh herbs, salt and pepper.
• Stir the ingredients together.
• Form the ingredients into hamburger patties.
• In a large skillet (I use a large cast iron skillet), over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil.
• Once the pan is hot, add the salmon burgers and cook for 5 minutes on each side, until lightly brown.
• Serve warm with lemon wedges (optional).