Irresistible Salmon Burgers with Zesty Ginger Wasabi Mayonnaise: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Tired of your usual burger night routine? It’s time to elevate your culinary experience with these incredibly flavorful Salmon Burgers, perfectly complemented by a vibrant Ginger Wasabi Mayonnaise. This recipe offers a refreshing twist on classic burgers, promising a delicious dinner packed with Asian-inspired notes that will delight even the most discerning fish lovers.

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While classic beef burgers, such as Blue Cheese Burgers or Tex-Mex Bacon Cheeseburgers, are undoubtedly delicious staples, occasionally you crave something different, something lighter yet equally satisfying. These Salmon Burgers are precisely that change you’ve been looking for. As a passionate fan of seafood, I’m constantly exploring new and exciting ways to prepare fish, and what better way than combining it with the universal appeal of a burger?

This recipe quickly became a favorite because it’s not just incredibly tasty, but also remarkably quick to prepare, coming together in under 30 minutes. The magic lies in the delightful Asian-inspired flavors, with fresh ginger and soy sauce infused directly into the salmon patties. But the true star that brings the entire dish to life is the homemade Ginger Wasabi Mayonnaise – a creamy, zesty, and subtly spicy condiment that perfectly complements the rich salmon.

Imagine a vibrant weeknight dinner that is both bursting with fresh flavors and offers a healthy dose of lean protein. These salmon patties are also packed with finely diced vegetables, making them an excellent way to sneak in extra nutrients. It’s a win-win for flavor and health! If you’re a fan of these bold Asian influences, you’ll also adore this Crispy Fish Sandwich Recipe with Wasabi Tartar Sauce for another fantastic seafood option.

Key Ingredients for Unforgettable Salmon Burgers

Creating these outstanding salmon burgers relies on a blend of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips for selecting them:

• Salmon: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can use fresh salmon fillets, which offer the most vibrant flavor and texture. Frozen salmon, properly thawed, also works wonderfully. While I haven’t personally tested it, canned salmon might be an option if you’re in a pinch, but ensure it’s drained well. Crucially, always remove the skin and any lingering pin bones for the best patty consistency.
• Bell Pepper: A finely chopped red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the patties. Its mild flavor complements the salmon without overpowering it. However, any color bell pepper you have on hand will work just fine.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for a pungent, aromatic base. Mince it very finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the salmon mixture and cooks down smoothly.
• Ginger: This ingredient provides a distinct, zesty, and slightly spicy kick that defines the Asian profile of these burgers. You’ll use fresh ginger in both the patties and the mayonnaise. Always opt for fresh ginger over ground ginger for superior flavor and aroma. Peel it and then mince or grate it finely.
• Soy Sauce: A cornerstone of Asian cuisine, soy sauce contributes umami depth and a savory balance to the salmon mixture. Use a good quality soy sauce for the best results.
• Green Onions: Also known as scallions, these add a mild oniony flavor and a touch of freshness. Slice them thinly so they blend seamlessly into the patties.
• Sesame Oil: Just a small amount of toasted sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma that enhances the overall Asian flavor profile. It’s a key aromatic ingredient.
• Grill Seasoning: This versatile seasoning blend adds an extra layer of savory flavor to the patties. Choose a blend that you enjoy and that is suitable for general grilling or meat preparation.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper seasons the patties, bringing out the other flavors. Adjust to your taste.
• Oil for Cooking: A light, neutral-flavored oil is perfect for pan-frying these burgers. Vegetable, canola, or avocado oil are all excellent choices, preventing sticking and promoting a beautiful golden-brown crust.

For the Zesty Ginger Wasabi Mayonnaise:

• Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise provides the richest, creamiest base for the sauce. However, if you’re looking to reduce calories or fat, a light mayonnaise can be substituted without significantly impacting the flavor.
• Wasabi Paste: This distinctive Japanese horseradish paste delivers a unique, pungent heat. You can typically find wasabi paste in the international aisle of most grocery stores or easily purchase it online. If you are sensitive to spicy flavors, I recommend starting with half the amount and adding more to taste.
• Lime: Fresh lime juice provides a bright, tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and salmon, bringing a refreshing element to the sauce. Use the juice from a whole lime, or adjust to your preference.

For Serving:

• Buns: I find that a soft brioche bun offers a delightful richness and texture that complements the salmon beautifully. However, any hamburger-sized bun will work. Consider toasting them lightly for an extra layer of texture.
• Fresh Toppings: Crisp lettuce leaves and thinly sliced red onion are simple yet perfect toppings that add crunch and a touch of freshness.

Crafting Your Own Salmon Burgers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these delicious salmon burgers is straightforward and quick, even for novice cooks. Follow these steps for perfect results:

1. Prepare the Salmon: Begin by cutting your salmon fillets into manageable chunks. Place these pieces into a food processor.
2. Process to Perfection: Pulse the salmon in the food processor until it is coarsely ground. The key here is not to over-process; you want a texture similar to ground beef, with some small pieces of salmon still visible, not a paste. This prevents the burgers from becoming too dense.

3. Combine the Flavors: Transfer the coarsely ground salmon to a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped bell pepper, minced garlic, approximately three-quarters of your minced fresh ginger (reserve the rest for the mayonnaise), soy sauce, sliced green onions, sesame oil, grill seasoning, and black pepper. Gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.

4. Form the Patties: Divide the salmon mixture into four equal portions and carefully shape each into a patty, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Helpful Tip: Since these patties don’t contain heavy binders like breadcrumbs or eggs, they can be a bit delicate. If you find them difficult to hold together, place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up before cooking. This simple step can make a big difference!
5. Cook to Golden Perfection: Drizzle a tablespoon of light oil into a large nonstick skillet or griddle and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the salmon patties into the skillet. Cook for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through.

Whipping Up the Zesty Ginger Wasabi Mayonnaise

This incredible condiment is surprisingly simple to make and is the perfect finishing touch for your salmon burgers. While your salmon patties are cooking, combine the mayonnaise, wasabi paste, fresh lime juice, and the remaining minced ginger in a small bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the sauce is smooth. I recommend chilling the mayonnaise in the refrigerator while the burgers cook; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to set slightly, enhancing its creamy texture. It’s truly the easiest part of the recipe, yet delivers an impressive burst of flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Burgers

Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your salmon burger experience is nothing short of perfect:

What if I don’t have a food processor?
No problem at all! While a food processor makes the job quicker, you can easily mince the salmon by hand. Use a very sharp knife to finely chop the salmon fillets until they reach a coarsely ground consistency. It might take a few extra minutes, but the results will be just as delicious.

What are the best toppings for salmon burgers?
For these Asian-inspired salmon burgers, I prefer to keep it simple and fresh to let the main flavors shine. The ginger wasabi mayo, crisp lettuce, and thinly sliced red onion are a perfect combination. However, feel free to get creative while keeping the Asian theme in mind! Sliced cucumber, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds would all be wonderful additions. You could also add a slice of tomato or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.

How do you know when salmon burgers are done?
Salmon cooks relatively quickly, so it’s easier to overcook it than to undercook it. The ideal internal temperature for cooked salmon is 145ºF (63ºC) when measured with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the patty. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the burgers to be beautifully browned and slightly crispy on the outside. When you break one open, the flesh should no longer look raw but should still be moist and opaque pink throughout, easily flaking with a fork. Aim for about 5-6 minutes per side for fully cooked patties; if you prefer them a little rarer, try 4 minutes per side.

Are salmon burgers healthy?
Absolutely! Salmon itself is incredibly healthy, renowned for being rich in heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, high in lean protein, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. While the ginger wasabi mayonnaise and bun will add calories and fat, the salmon patties themselves are very good for you, as they don’t contain many fillers like breadcrumbs. To make this meal even healthier, you can serve the salmon patty over a bed of fresh greens (like a lettuce wrap) instead of a bun and use a smaller portion of the mayonnaise.

Can you cook the salmon patties on a grill?
Yes, you can! However, these patties are a bit delicate due to the lack of heavy binders, so they require a little extra care on the grill. I highly recommend cooking them on a piece of aluminum foil that has been sprayed with a nonstick cooking spray. This prevents them from sticking to the grates and falling apart. You can also use a grill pan or a fine-mesh grill basket. Cook over medium heat until cooked through and nicely charred.

Can I prepare these salmon burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can! The salmon patty mixture can be prepared and formed into patties a few hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This can be a great time-saver for busy weeknights. The ginger wasabi mayonnaise can also be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge, allowing the flavors to develop even further.

What are some good side dishes to serve with salmon burgers?
These flavorful salmon burgers pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light option, consider a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber salad. For something more substantial, sweet potato fries, a side of roasted asparagus, or a simple bowl of brown rice or quinoa would be excellent choices. Coleslaw or a corn salad also offer a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

More Irresistible Salmon Recipes

If you’re a salmon enthusiast, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes:

• Panko Crusted Salmon with Homemade Tartar Sauce
• Blackened Salmon Tostadas
• Pan Fried Salmon with Remoulade
• Honey Mustard Salmon
• Soy Ginger Salmon

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Salmon Burgers with Ginger Wasabi Mayo

5 from 1 vote

Author:
Deborah Harroun

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
15 minutes

Total Time:
30 minutes

Servings:
4 servings

Course:
Main Dish

Cuisine:
Asian

Change up burger night with these Salmon Burgers with Ginger Wasabi Mayonnaise. A delicious dinner with a ton of flavor – perfect for fish lovers!

Ingredients

Patties

• 1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets (pin bones and skin removed)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 inch piece of ginger (peeled and minced or grated)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons grill seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon light oil (vegetable, canola, etc.)

Ginger Wasabi Mayo

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons wasabi paste
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 inch piece of ginger (peeled and minced or grated)

Burgers

• 4 hamburger buns or brioche buns
• Lettuce and sliced red onion (for topping)

Instructions

1. Cut the salmon into cubes and place in a food processor. Process until it is coarsely ground, aiming for the texture of ground beef – do not over-process.
2. Transfer the salmon to a large bowl. To the bowl, add the bell pepper, garlic, 3/4 of the ginger (the rest is for the mayo), soy sauce, green onions, sesame oil, grill seasoning, and pepper. Stir until combined.
3. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties that are about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Drizzle the patties with the light oil.
4. Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Carefully flip and cook the second side for another 5 minutes.
5. While the patties are cooking, combine the mayonnaise, wasabi paste, lime juice, and remaining ginger in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed.
6. To serve, spread the ginger-wasabi mayonnaise on the buns and top with a salmon burger, lettuce, and sliced onion.

Recipe Notes:

Adapted from Rachael Ray Book of 10

Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 burger
, Calories: 714 kcal (36%)
, Carbohydrates: 31 g (10%)
, Protein: 50 g (100%)
, Fat: 42 g (65%)
, Saturated Fat: 4 g (25%)
, Polyunsaturated Fat: 22 g
, Trans Fat: 0 g
, Cholesterol: 109 mg (36%)
, Sodium: 1226 mg (53%)
, Fiber: 3 g (13%)
, Sugar: 6 g (7%)

Keywords:
Salmon burgers, salmon burgers recipe, salmon patties, ginger wasabi mayo, fish burgers