Salmon Burgers with Slaw: 7 Delicious Reasons to Try Them

Name: Salmon Burgers with Slaw: A Healthier Burger That Actually Tastes Amazing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh salmon, skin removed and finely chopped; 1 egg; 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp chopped dill or parsley; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 cups shredded cabbage (red and green mix); 1 large carrot, grated; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 burger buns (brioche, whole wheat, etc.); Optional toppings: avocado, tomato, arugula, pickled red onions

Jump to Recipe

You ever bite into something and go, “Why haven’t I been making this forever?” That’s what happened the first time I swapped out beef for salmon. These salmon burgers with slaw are everything you want: crispy edges, juicy inside, and a tangy, creamy cabbage slaw that balances it all out. It’s like your favorite diner burger took a summer vacation and came back refreshed.

They’re lighter, better for you, and perfect for everything from a quick dinner for kids to impress-your-date night.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ It’s fast.
✅ It’s flexible.
✅ It’s healthy without tasting like health food.
✅ The slaw makes it feel like a full meal.
✅ It holds up great for next-day lunches.

Perfect for:

Weeknights
Healthy lunch sandwiches
Meal prep containers
Or anyone who just wants a change from the same ol’ chicken breast

Ingredients for Homemade Salmon Burgers and Slaw Topping for Fish Burger

For Salmon Patties:

1 lb fresh salmon, skin off (chopped finely or pulse in food processor—not mush!)
1 egg
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp chopped dill or parsley
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Zest of 1 lemon (adds brightness—don’t skip)

For the Slaw:

2 cups shredded cabbage (use a mix of red and green)
1 large carrot, grated
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
Salt and black pepper to taste

To Serve:

4 burger buns (brioche, whole wheat—whatever you like)
Toppings: avocado, tomato, arugula, pickled red onions (optional but highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pan-Seared Salmon Burger Perfection

Step 1: Prepare the Patties

Key move here—don’t overprocess the salmon. You want some texture. I like to hand-chop or pulse it until it’s like a coarse tartare.

Toss it into a bowl with your egg, panko, mustard, herbs, seasonings, and lemon zest. Mix gently until it just holds together. If it’s feeling loose, toss in a pinch more breadcrumbs.

Now chill those patties. At least 20 minutes. This is non-negotiable if you want burgers that hold together and sear properly.

Step 2: Make the Slaw

In a medium bowl, mix the yogurt, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste it—adjust acidity or sweetness as you like.

Throw in the cabbage, carrot, and onion. Toss until everything’s coated. This is your slaw topping for fish burger glory. Stick it in the fridge while the patties chill—it gets better the longer it sits.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Grab a non-stick or cast iron skillet. Add a bit of oil and heat until it’s shimmering—not smoking.

Lay in the patties. Don’t crowd the pan or you’ll steam them instead of getting that crispy crust. Cook 3–4 minutes per side. They should be golden and slightly springy when pressed.

Let them rest 2 minutes off heat. That juice? That’s flavor insurance.

Step 4: Build the Burger

Toast the buns. Always toast the buns.

Layer the patty, a generous spoonful of slaw, and whatever toppings you love. I’m a fan of arugula and pickled onions. Top bun goes on. Done.

Why Salmon Burgers Are a Smart and Delicious Choice

Look, burgers aren’t going anywhere—but the heavy beef bomb? That’s optional. These healthy salmon burgers are lean, light, and packed with flavor. No food coma, no regret.

Plus, they’re:

Easy to flavor-shift (Asian, Med, spicy—your call)
Fast enough for weeknights
Impressive enough for guests
A good intro for kids who “don’t like fish” (spoiler: they do now)

Health Benefits of Salmon and Yogurt Slaw

This isn’t just about skipping red meat. You’re getting serious nutritional firepower:

Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, B-vitamins.
Greek yogurt slaw = protein, probiotics, and that creamy tang without mayo.
Cabbage and carrots bring fiber, crunch, and antioxidants.

Together? This is a light dinner recipe that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice. It’s the kind of meal your body (and your taste buds) high-five you for.

Origins and Evolution of the Salmon Burger

Originally? A way to stretch canned salmon. Now? It’s a front-row contender in the summer seafood meals lineup.

With the rise of meal prep, pescatarian diets, and global flavor mashups, salmon burgers have earned their place. Think: Japanese miso glaze, Mediterranean feta and olives, or smoky Cajun heat. The base is blank canvas, and it’s delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Sides for Salmon Sandwiches with Slaw

If this salmon burger recipe hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to explore these other salmon favorites from the blog:

Try the smoky route with my Traeger smoked salmon—perfect for cookouts or lazy Sundays.
In the mood for something rich and comforting? This creamy lemon butter salmon is dinner-party worthy.
Craving restaurant-style flavor? My Texas Roadhouse-style baked salmon nails that oven-baked, buttery finish.
Need a quick, healthy option? This air fryer salmon recipe is a no-fuss favorite with a crisp bite.
Want bold and spicy? Check out my Cajun honey butter salmon—sweet, spicy, and seriously addictive

Whether you’re grilling, baking, or air frying, there’s a salmon dish for every craving. Dive in!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overprocessing the fish
Texture is king. You want chunks, not paste.

Skipping the chill time
Warm patties = fragile patties. Chill = firm, sear-ready.

Overcooking
Dry salmon is sad salmon. Go for golden and springy, not dry and flaky.

Cold pan = no crust
Get that skillet hot before the patties hit it. Otherwise? No sear, no flavor.

Variations and Flavor Additions to Healthy Salmon Burgers

Feel like changing it up? Here’s how:

Asian-Inspired: Soy, sesame oil, green onion in the patty. Slaw with rice vinegar and ginger.
Mediterranean: Add chopped olives, crumbled feta, oregano. Swap yogurt slaw for tzatziki.
Spicy: Sriracha in the patty or slaw. Or a little diced jalapeño for kick.
Tropical: Mango slaw with lime juice and cilantro.
Low-Carb: Skip the bun—serve over greens or in lettuce cups.

Nutritional Snapshot

Component	Approx. per Burger
Calories	380–420
Protein	28g
Healthy Fats	17g
Carbohydrates	23g
Fiber	4g

Great for weight-conscious eaters, gym-goers, or anyone trying to eat clean without eating boring.

Perfect Occasions for Serving Healthy Salmon Burgers

This isn’t just a weeknight dinner hero. Try it for:

Backyard BBQs
Casual date nights
Meal prep Sunday sessions
Office lunch flex
Kid-approved dinner rotation

FAQ: Salmon Burgers with Slaw

Can I use canned salmon?

Sure—but drain it well and skip the skin/bones. Fresh gives better texture though.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

Chill ’em. That egg and panko do the work—but only if cold.

Can I grill instead of pan-searing?

Yes. Use foil or a grill basket to avoid patty fallout.

How long will they keep?

Up to 4 days in the fridge. They reheat like a dream.

Are they freezer-friendly?

Yup. Freeze raw or cooked—just wrap tight and label.

Conclusion: Try This Salmon Burger Recipe Tonight

There it is: your new go-to salmon burger recipe. Lighter than beef, full of bold flavor, and customizable to whatever mood you’re in. The slaw? That creamy, crunchy crown jewel that pulls it all together.

Whether you’re stacking them high for a weekend grill-out or tossing one in a container for work, this is one of those healthy salmon burgers that doesn’t feel like a compromise. It’s just good cooking.

Want more recipe inspiration like this? Check out my Pinterest page for even more delicious ideas you can try at home.

Now go make it. And toast those buns—I’m watching.

Salmon Burgers with Slaw: A Healthier Burger That Actually Tastes Amazing