Ingredients
For the Salmon Burgers
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1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon capers
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1 tablespoon fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill
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½ teaspoon kosher salt
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1 tablespoon oil, for cooking
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4 burger buns
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Toppings of choice, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, and onion
For the Lemon Yogurt Sauce
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
Cut the salmon into smaller pieces and place them in a food processor with the egg, capers, dill, and salt. Pulse until just combined, leaving small pieces of salmon for a better texture. Avoid processing until completely smooth.
2. Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four portions and gently shape each into a patty. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. The mixture may feel sticky, so lightly wet your hands to make shaping easier. Avoid packing the patties too tightly.
3. Chill the Patties
Refrigerate the patties for at least 1 hour to help them firm up and hold together during cooking. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can help.
4. Cook the Salmon Burgers
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the patties and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Use a wide spatula when flipping, as salmon patties are more delicate than beef burgers. Check the center with a food thermometer and cook until it reaches 145°F.
5. Make the Lemon Yogurt Sauce
While the patties chill or cook, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust the lemon or seasoning as desired.
6. Assemble the Burgers
Place each salmon patty on a burger bun. Add a generous spoonful of lemon yogurt sauce, then top with lettuce, tomato, avocado, onion, or your favorite burger toppings. Serve while warm.
Notes
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Keep some texture: Pulse the salmon just until combined. A few small pieces help the patties feel more like a burger than a smooth fish cake.
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Chill before cooking: Cold patties are easier to handle and less likely to fall apart in the skillet.
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Wet your hands: A little water helps keep the salmon mixture from sticking while you shape the patties.
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Flip carefully: Use a wide spatula and turn each patty only when it’s ready to release from the pan.
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Toast the buns: Toasting adds a little crunch and helps the buns stand up to the sauce and toppings.
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Make the sauce ahead: Prepare the lemon yogurt sauce in advance and refrigerate it until serving.