Salmon Burgers with Lemon Basil Mayo Recipe

Salmon: The star of the dish, providing a rich, flavorful base for the burgers.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties together and adds a bit of texture.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.

Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness to the patties and the lemon basil mayo.

Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor to the patties.

Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens up the dish.

Basil: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to both the patties and the mayo.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor profile.

When forming the salmon patties, make sure to handle the mixture gently to avoid overworking it, which can result in a dense texture. Lightly wet your hands with water before shaping the patties to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands. Additionally, chilling the patties in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before grilling can help them hold their shape better on the grill.

• finely chopped salmon fillets - Substitute with finely chopped tuna fillets: Tuna has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for salmon in burgers.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water: A mixture of flaxseed meal and water can act as a binding agent similar to eggs, suitable for a vegan option.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.

• dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard offers a similar tangy flavor with a slightly different texture due to the mustard seeds.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidic and citrusy flavor, making it a good substitute for lemon juice.

• chopped fresh basil - Substitute with chopped fresh parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can complement the other ingredients similarly to basil.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the burger.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar spiciness with a slightly different flavor profile, suitable for those who prefer a milder pepper taste.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with avocado: Mashed avocado offers a creamy texture and healthy fats, making it a nutritious alternative to mayonnaise.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a tangy flavor that can mimic the acidity of lemon juice.

• chopped fresh basil - Substitute with chopped fresh cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, citrusy flavor that can complement the other ingredients similarly to basil.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar salty flavor with a slightly different mineral content.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicier kick, suitable for those who prefer a bit more heat in their burgers.

• To store the salmon burgers, allow them to cool completely after grilling. Place them in an airtight container, separating each patty with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the uncooked salmon patties. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to cook frozen salmon patties, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even cooking and maintains the texture.
• To store the lemon basil mayo, transfer it to a small airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Stir well before using to maintain consistency.
• If you prefer to freeze the lemon basil mayo, spoon it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cubes to a resealable freezer bag. Thaw the desired amount in the refrigerator before use.
• When reheating cooked salmon burgers, use a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the patties rubbery.
• Serve the reheated salmon burgers with fresh lemon basil mayo to enhance the flavors and maintain the dish's original zest.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the salmon burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the burgers loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the burgers are warmed through.
  5. Serve with a fresh dollop of lemon basil mayo.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
  3. Place the salmon burgers in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
  5. Serve immediately with lemon basil mayo.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the salmon burgers on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Let the burgers sit for a minute before serving with lemon basil mayo.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the salmon burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the burgers are warmed through.
  4. Serve with a fresh dollop of lemon basil mayo.

• Grill Method:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Place the salmon burgers on the grill.
  3. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
  4. Serve immediately with lemon basil mayo.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, lemon juice, basil, salt, and pepper.

• Grill: Preheat this to medium-high heat for cooking the salmon patties.

• Spatula: Use this to flip the salmon patties on the grill.

• Small bowl: Use this to prepare the lemon basil mayo.

• Measuring cups: Use these to measure out the breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure out the dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

• Knife: Use this to finely chop the salmon fillets and basil.

• Cutting board: Use this as a surface for chopping the salmon and basil.

• Whisk: Use this to beat the egg before adding it to the salmon mixture.

• Spoon: Use this to mix the ingredients in the small bowl for the lemon basil mayo.

• Buns: Use these to serve the salmon burgers.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the salmon and basil ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly blend the salmon mixture for even consistency and faster preparation.

Pre-make the mayo: Prepare the lemon basil mayo the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Form patties ahead: Shape the salmon patties and refrigerate them until ready to grill.

Utilize parchment paper: Place formed patties on parchment paper for easy transfer to the grill.