Healthy Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw

These Healthy Salmon Burgers are a delicious way to enjoy a quick, wholesome meal that’s packed with protein and fresh flavor. Made with flaky cooked or canned salmon, fragrant herbs, and simple pantry ingredients, they’re pan-fried until perfectly golden and served over a refreshing creamy cabbage slaw. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in about 25 minutes.
• Perfect for using cooked or canned salmon.
• Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• High in protein and full of fresh herbs.
• A lighter alternative to traditional burgers.
• Great for meal prep and family dinners.

Ingredients

Salmon Burgers

• 12–14 ounces cooked salmon (canned or freshly cooked)
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill)
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil for pan-frying

Creamy Cabbage Slaw

• 1 head green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2–3 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup chopped fresh herbs
• A drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

1. Flake the salmon into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, chopped herbs, and lemon juice.
3. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined.
4. Shape the mixture into 3 large or 4 medium patties.
5. Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook the Healthy Salmon Burgers for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a crispy golden crust.
7. Transfer the burgers to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle lightly with salt.
8. In another bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, Greek yogurt, vinegar, salt, garlic powder, herbs, and olive oil.
9. Toss well until the cabbage is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Serve the salmon burgers over a generous bed of creamy cabbage slaw. Finish with an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of olive oil, and additional fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Tricks

• Canned salmon is an excellent time-saving option and works just as well as freshly cooked salmon.
• If the mixture feels too soft, chill it for 15–20 minutes before shaping the patties.
• Add a little more breadcrumbs if the patties don’t hold together easily.
• Fresh dill gives the burgers a classic seafood flavor, while parsley and chives add freshness.
• Cook over medium heat so the burgers become crispy without burning.
• For a lighter option, bake or air fry the patties instead of pan-frying.

Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 3–4 servings

Category: Main Course

Method: Pan Fry

Cuisine: American

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary Notes: High Protein, Nut-Free

Notes

• Panko breadcrumbs create an even crispier texture.
• Sour cream can be used in place of Greek yogurt for a richer slaw.
• Serve with roasted potatoes, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.
• Add sliced avocado or tomato for extra freshness.
• The burgers can also be served in toasted burger buns or wrapped in lettuce leaves.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

FAQ

Can I use canned salmon?

Yes. Canned salmon is convenient, affordable, and works perfectly for making flavorful salmon burgers.

Can I freeze these salmon burgers?

Yes. Freeze cooked or uncooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply replace the regular breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Which herbs taste best with salmon?

Fresh dill, parsley, and chives all pair beautifully with salmon and enhance its natural flavor.

Can I bake the burgers instead?

Yes. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Storage

Store leftover salmon burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, wrap each burger individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispy exterior.

Similar Recipes

• Spicy Moroccan Fish Stew Recipe
• Roast Salmon with Raw Corn Salsa Recipe

Healthy Salmon Burgers with Creamy Cabbage Slaw

Healthy Salmon Burgers are crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Ingredients

  

Salmon Burgers

• 12 –14 ounces cooked salmon or canned salmon
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ cup chopped fresh chives parsley, or dill
• Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil for frying

Creamy Cabbage Slaw

• 1 head green cabbage finely shredded
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 –3 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup chopped fresh herbs
• Drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

 

• Flake the cooked salmon into a large mixing bowl.
• Add the eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, herbs, and lemon juice.
• Mix until well combined.
• Shape into 3 large or 4 medium patties.
• Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the Healthy Salmon Burgers for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and lightly season with salt.
• In another bowl, combine cabbage, Greek yogurt, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, herbs, and olive oil.
• Toss until evenly coated.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Serve the salmon burgers over a generous bed of creamy cabbage slaw. Garnish with extra yogurt, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream if preferred.
• Serve with roasted potatoes, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad.
• Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
• These also make excellent lettuce-wrap burgers.

Conclusion

These Healthy Salmon Burgers are the perfect combination of convenience, nutrition, and fresh flavor. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and paired with a creamy cabbage slaw, they’re a satisfying meal that’s easy enough for any day of the week. Whether you’re using leftover salmon or canned salmon from your pantry, this simple recipe is sure to become a regular favorite for quick lunches and healthy family dinners.