Salmon Burger with Dill Sauce

A perfectly crafted Salmon Burger with Dill Sauce is a refreshing twist on the classic beef burger. Light yet satisfying, this burger brings together flaky salmon, a touch of citrus, fresh herbs, and a creamy yet bright homemade dill sauce that complements the fish beautifully. Whether you're looking for a healthier burger option or simply craving bold yet balanced flavors, this salmon burger is guaranteed to impress.

Unlike many store-bought salmon patties, this homemade version is tender, flavorful, and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s great for busy weeknights, a summer barbecue, or a sophisticated yet fun weekend dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

• It’s healthier than traditional burgers but still incredibly satisfying.
• The dill sauce adds a restaurant-quality finish.
• It’s easy, customizable, and pairs well with classic or gourmet toppings.
• Fresh ingredients shine through for a clean, delicious bite.

Why You Must Try This Dish

• A great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet.
• Perfect balance of creamy, citrusy, savory, and herbaceous flavors.
• Cooks in under 15 minutes—ideal for busy cooking days.
• Elegant enough for entertaining, but simple enough for everyday meals.

Recipe Details

Ingredients

For the Salmon Burgers

• 1 lb (450 g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
• 1 egg
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Dill Sauce

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, minced
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Serving

• 4 toasted burger buns or brioche buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomato
• Pickles, onion slices (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dill Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, mustard, and garlic powder.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Chill in refrigerator while patties cook—this enhances flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

1. Chop salmon finely with a knife OR pulse in a food processor (leave some texture).
2. Transfer to a bowl and add egg, breadcrumbs, green onion, dill, lemon juice/zest, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix gently until ingredients hold together—avoid overmixing.

Step 3: Shape Patties

1. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions.
2. Form each into a medium-thick patty and refrigerate 10–15 minutes (helps patties firm up).

Step 4: Cook

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
3. Toast buns lightly during final minute of cooking.

Step 5: Assemble

1. Spread dill sauce on both bun halves.
2. Add lettuce, salmon patty, tomato slice, and optional garnishes like pickled onions.
3. Serve warm.

How to Serve

Serve immediately with:

• Sweet potato fries
• A fresh green salad
• Coleslaw
• Roasted vegetables
• Pickles or kettle chips

For a gourmet touch, add microgreens or avocado slices.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overprocess salmon—small chunks create a more tender burger.
• Chill patties before cooking to prevent breakage.
• If mixture feels too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs.

Variations

1. Spicy Salmon Burger
   • Add cayenne or chili flakes, and serve with spicy sriracha mayo.
2. Asian-Inspired Salmon Burger
   • Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the patty mixture and serve with sesame slaw.
3. Pesto Salmon Burger
   • Replace dill sauce with basil pesto mayo and add mozzarella.
4. Low-Carb/Keto Version
   • Serve bunless on a salad or wrapped in butter lettuce.

Freezing & Storage

Reheat cooked patties gently in skillet or oven—not microwave—to avoid dryness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Knife or food processor
• Skillet or grill pan
• Spatula
• Measuring cups/spoons

Conclusion

This Salmon Burger with Dill Sauce is flavorful, nutritious, and versatile — a perfect upgrade from everyday burgers. With its fresh herbs, citrus notes, rich texture, and creamy dill sauce, each bite feels gourmet but comforting. Whether you're entertaining guests or cooking a quick family meal, this recipe delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort.