Easy Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw Recipe

If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, these Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw are an absolute must-try. Perfectly seasoned salmon patties pair beautifully with a crisp, creamy cabbage slaw, creating a dish that’s vibrant, healthy, and packed with textures and colors that will brighten up your dinner table any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: Minimal ingredients and easy steps make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
• Full of flavor: Fresh herbs and seasoning enhance the tender salmon, while the slaw adds a creamy crunch.
• Healthy and nutritious: High in omega-3s, fiber, and vitamins to support a well-rounded diet.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect for weeknight dinners, picnics, or impressing guests at your next gathering.
• Quick cooking time: Ready in under 30 minutes so you can enjoy a wholesome meal fast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the fresh salmon providing protein and richness to the crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing balancing every bite. These essentials keep the recipe straightforward but deeply satisfying.

• Fresh salmon fillets: The star of the burger, offering a tender and flavorful base.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Adds light texture and helps bind the patties perfectly.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Brightens flavors and adds a pop of green.
• Minced garlic: Brings savory depth and warmth.
• Lemon zest and juice: Adds a zesty freshness that lifts the entire dish.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Provides smoky richness without overpowering the salmon.
• Cabbage (green and purple): Offers vibrant color and a satisfying crunch in the slaw.
• Carrots: Adds a subtle sweetness and extra texture to the slaw.
• Plant-based mayonnaise (natural): Creates a creamy slaw dressing that’s luscious yet light.
• Apple cider vinegar (natural): Balances the creaminess with tangy brightness.
• Mustard (natural): Gives a gentle kick to the slaw dressing.
• Natural gelling agent: Used subtly to maintain the slaw’s perfect consistency.

Variations for Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw

Feel free to tweak and personalize this dish based on what you love or have on hand. Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw are incredibly versatile and easy to adapt to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Herb swaps: Try dill, cilantro, or basil instead of parsley for different herbal notes.
• Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika to the patties for heat.
• Different slaw bases: Substitute napa cabbage or kale for a unique texture and flavor.
• Swap smoked turkey bacon for smoked turkey slices: For a milder smoky flavor in your burgers.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to suit dietary needs without losing crunch.

How to Make Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Patties

Start by finely chopping the fresh salmon fillets into small pieces or pulse quickly in a food processor until just combined. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon with panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly, avoiding over-handling to keep the patties tender.

Step 2: Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon

Lightly crisp the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Remove from the pan and let cool on paper towels, then chop into small pieces to fold into the salmon mixture or add as a topping for extra smoky flavor.

Step 3: Form and Cook the Salmon Burgers

Shape the salmon mixture into evenly sized patties, then cook them in a lightly oiled skillet or grill pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid flipping more than once to preserve the burger’s structure.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cabbage Slaw

Combine shredded green and purple cabbage with grated carrots in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together plant-based mayonnaise (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), mustard (natural), salt, and a tiny amount of natural gelling agent to achieve a perfectly creamy consistency. Toss the dressing with the cabbage mixture until fully coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Place a salmon burger on a toasted bun or lettuce wrap if you prefer gluten-free, then top generously with the creamy cabbage slaw and a slice of smoked turkey slices. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw

• Use fresh salmon: Fresh fillets provide the best texture and vibrant flavor for your burgers.
• Don’t overmix the patties: Keeping the texture light ensures juicy burgers without breaking apart.
• Chill before cooking: Letting patties rest in the refrigerator helps them firm up for easier handling.
• Customize slaw creaminess: Adjust the amount of plant-based mayonnaise (natural) and apple cider vinegar (natural) to balance richness and tanginess.
• Toast your buns: Lightly toasting adds crunch and holds up better against the moist slaw.

How to Serve Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw

Garnishes

Top your salmon burgers with fresh slices of avocado, thin rings of red onion, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to amplify freshness and color.

Side Dishes

Pair these burgers with crispy sweet potato fries, steamed green beans, or a light quinoa salad to round out the meal without overshadowing the vibrant slaw.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salmon patties open-faced on toasted ciabatta with a side of extra slaw or wrap the burgers in large lettuce leaves instead of buns for a low-carb, fun presentation perfect for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salmon patties and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked salmon patties by placing them on a parchment-lined tray, then transferring to a freezer-safe container once solid for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat cooked burgers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to avoid drying out, and serve slaw chilled for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Fresh salmon is best for texture in burgers, but canned salmon can work in a pinch if drained well and mixed carefully with the other ingredients.

How do I keep the burgers from falling apart?

Use panko breadcrumbs for binding, avoid overmixing, and chill the patties before cooking to help them hold together nicely.

Is the cabbage slaw made with raw cabbage?

Yes, the slaw uses shredded raw cabbage for a crisp, fresh texture, balanced by the creamy dressing.

Can I grill the salmon burgers outside?

Absolutely! Salmon burgers hold up well on the grill and gain a lovely smoky flavor when cooked over medium heat.

What can I substitute for plant-based mayonnaise?

You can use a creamy avocado spread or a blended silken tofu dressing for a similar creamy texture without mayo.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw are a game-changer when you want a colorful, delicious meal that feels special but comes together without fuss. Once you try this easy recipe, it’s sure to become a regular favorite that delights your taste buds and nourishes your body.

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