Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo Recipe
If you’re craving something bold, refreshing, and just a bit different from your usual burger fix, Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo are about to become your new obsession. Imagine juicy, savory salmon patties laced with bright green onions and zesty Dijon, all crowned with a creamy, aromatic basil mayo that instantly lifts every bite. These burgers are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare, offering a vibrant alternative for weeknight dinners or laid-back weekend lunches. Plus, they look as gorgeous as they taste, piling high with crisp lettuce and juicy tomato, all sandwiched inside a perfectly toasted bun. Give Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo a try, and I’m betting they’ll steal the show at your next meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe matters! Each component brings its own personality to the Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo, from the rich, flaky salmon to the fresh, herbal sparkle of basil in the mayo. Here’s what you’ll need—and why it’s essential:
- Salmon Fillet: Opt for fresh, skinless salmon for the juiciest, most flavorful patties.
- Bread Crumbs: These bind the patties and help create a tender, light texture when cooked.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together, so your burgers stay intact.
- Green Onions: Offer a pop of freshness and gentle onion flavor that wakes up the salmon.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds zippy depth and tang—don’t skip it!
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the fish and balances out the richness.
- Salt: Essential for flavor; a little goes a long way.
- Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and complexity.
- Olive Oil: For pan-searing the patties, resulting in a golden crust.
- Burger Buns: The foundation for your creation; choose soft yet sturdy buns that can hold all the goodness inside.
- Lettuce Leaves: Big, crunchy leaves add freshness and keep the bun from getting soggy.
- Tomato Slices: Thick, juicy slices lend sweetness and color.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the basil mayo—choose good-quality for the best flavor.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: The star of the mayo, bringing intense herbal notes and beautiful color.
- Garlic Clove: Just one small clove infuses the mayo with irresistible aroma and zip.
How to Make Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Begin by pulsing your fresh salmon fillet in a food processor until coarsely ground. This creates the perfect texture for hearty, juicy patties—much more satisfying than pre-ground fish. Transfer the salmon to a mixing bowl to start assembling flavors.
Step 2: Mix in the Flavor Makers
To that bowl of gorgeous salmon, add your breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped green onions, zesty Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients work together to provide structure, moisture, and that subtle, tangy punch that sets these Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo apart. Mix gently—just enough so everything is evenly combined without making the patties tough.
Step 3: Form and Chill the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape each into a patty about the width of your buns. Pop them onto a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes; this quick chill firms them up, making them easier to cook without falling apart. Plus, it lets the flavors get to know each other—worth the wait!
Step 4: Make the Basil Mayo
While the patties chill, whip up the magical basil mayo. In a clean food processor, combine the mayonnaise, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, and garlic. Blend until the mixture is creamy and gorgeously green. This sauce is the signature flourish that makes Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo so brilliant.
Step 5: Cook the Salmon Patties
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chilled salmon patties and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until golden brown on the outside and just cooked through. Resist the urge to move them too soon—they’ll flip best when a nice crust has formed.
Step 6: Toast the Buns
For extra texture and warmth, toast your burger buns lightly, either in the oven or in a dry skillet. A toasted bun not only tastes amazing, it also helps hold up to the juicy salmon and luscious basil mayo.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Spread a generous layer of basil mayo on both sides of each bun. Layer on crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and a hot salmon patty. Close each burger and get ready to swoon—Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo are best served immediately, while the contrast of flavors and textures is at its peak.
How to Serve Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo
Garnishes
Top each burger with extra fresh basil leaves, a squeeze of lemon, or a few slices of ripe avocado for an extra touch of creaminess and color. These little additions really celebrate the fresh, vibrant flavors in your Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo, making every bite sing.
Side Dishes
These burgers pair beautifully with crisp sweet potato fries, a refreshing cucumber salad, or even classic potato chips. If you want something lighter, opt for a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette—it echoes the brightness of the basil mayo.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, make mini sliders using the same recipe (just divide the mixture into smaller patties) and serve bite-sized Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo as elegant appetizers. Or, try serving the patties bun-less over a bed of greens for a lower-carb, gluten-free meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store any leftover basil mayo separately; this way, you can keep the patties fresh and re-assemble the burgers when you’re ready for another taste.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, shape the raw salmon patties, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking. The basil mayo, however, is best made fresh due to the herbs.
Reheating
To reheat the salmon patties, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, or pop them into a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to get back that lovely crispy edge without drying them out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon for Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo?
While fresh salmon yields the juiciest burgers, canned salmon is a decent alternative if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and check for any small bones before mixing it into your patties.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the basil mayo?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works beautifully as a lighter, tangier base. You’ll still get the creamy texture and subtle richness, with a bit of extra protein and fewer calories.
Can I grill the salmon burgers instead of pan-searing?
Yes, these burgers are fantastic on a grill or grill pan. Just be sure to oil your grates well and handle the patties gently, as they’re a bit more delicate than traditional beef burgers.
How do I keep the salmon burgers from falling apart?
Refrigerating the patties before cooking is key to helping them hold their shape. Also, avoid over-mixing the ingredients and flip the patties only once to prevent breakage.
Can I make Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and serve on your favorite gluten-free buns, or skip the buns entirely and serve over lettuce wraps for a light, gluten-free option.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo, now’s your moment to treat yourself to something truly special. They’re quick, full of flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser—plus, there’s nothing like that bright, herby mayo to make your tastebuds dance. Don’t wait to bring this restaurant-worthy upgrade to your home kitchen—give Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo a place in your regular rotation and watch them disappear!
Print
Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These flavorful Salmon Burgers with Basil Mayo are a delightful twist on the classic burger. The juicy salmon patties are complemented by a creamy basil mayo, creating a perfect harmony of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the salmon patties:
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillet, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the basil mayo:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
For serving:
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon patties: Pulse salmon in a food processor, mix with breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Shape and chill: Form into 4 patties, refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Make basil mayo: Blend mayonnaise, basil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
- Cook the patties: Cook in olive oil for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread basil mayo on buns, add lettuce, tomato, and a salmon patty. Serve.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- These burgers are great on a grill pan. Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
