Grilled salmon burgers with avocado salsa are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic burger. Packed with heart-healthy omega-3s and protein, salmon offers a flavorful alternative that’s both light and satisfying. Topped with creamy, zesty avocado salsa, this meal bursts with fresh flavors perfect for any occasion—whether a summer BBQ or quick weeknight dinner. In this post, you’ll find everything you need to make these tasty burgers at home, plus tips to cook them perfectly and make them your own.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa
These grilled salmon burgers stand out because they’re flavorful, nutritious, and easy to make. Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health, while the avocado salsa adds a fresh, creamy balance. The recipe is versatile—great for gluten-free or low-carb diets—and quick enough for busy nights. Plus, it’s free of pork and alcohol, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, these burgers offer a fresh, healthy way to enjoy seafood.
What You’ll Need
To make these irresistible grilled salmon burgers with avocado salsa, you’ll need fresh, simple ingredients that come together easily. For the salmon patties, you’ll need about 1 pound of fresh salmon fillets, finely chopped or ground, combined with 1/4 cup of finely diced red onion, 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free crumbs if preferred), 1 large egg to bind everything, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a little zing, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill can add extra flavor if you like.
For the avocado salsa, gather 1 ripe avocado diced, 1 small tomato chopped, 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice for brightness, 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Optional: finely diced jalapeño if you want a bit of heat. Finally, you’ll want some burger buns—whole wheat, gluten-free, or lettuce wraps if you prefer low-carb—and your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato slices, or red onion rings.
How to Make Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa
Start by preparing the salmon patties. In a large bowl, mix the chopped salmon, red onion, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined. Form the mixture into four even patties. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred on the outside. While the salmon cooks, mix the avocado salsa ingredients in a bowl — avocado, tomato, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Once cooked, assemble your burgers by placing each salmon patty on a bun and topping with a generous scoop of avocado salsa. Add any additional toppings you like and enjoy immediately!
You Must Know
To make juicy salmon burgers, use fresh salmon and avoid overmixing the ingredients to keep the patties tender. Make sure your grill is hot before cooking for a nice sear. Prepare the avocado salsa just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning. Adding lime juice helps keep the salsa bright and flavorful.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Preheat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates. Cook the salmon patties about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping only once. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for perfect doneness. Don’t overcook to keep the patties moist. If grilling isn’t an option, a grill pan works great too. Let patties rest a few minutes before serving.
Add Your Touch
One of the best parts about salmon burgers is how easy it is to customize them. You can add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat, or mix in fresh herbs like dill or basil for extra brightness. For the avocado salsa, try adding diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. If you want a creamy sauce, a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with lime and garlic makes a perfect topping. Experiment with different buns—try brioche for a richer bite or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Storing & Reheating
Leftover salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or use a microwave on a low setting to avoid drying them out. Avoid reheating on high heat, which can make the salmon tough. The avocado salsa is best made fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in a sealed container with lime juice to slow browning and use within a day.
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Chef’s Helpful Tips
To get the best results with your grilled salmon burgers, start with fresh, high-quality salmon—wild-caught if possible for richer flavor. When forming the patties, keep them slightly thicker to prevent them from falling apart on the grill. Use a spatula carefully to flip them only once. Don’t skip oiling your grill grates or pan to avoid sticking. If you want extra flavor, marinate the salmon briefly with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before shaping. Always let the patties rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices. Lastly, serve immediately with fresh avocado salsa for the perfect balance of smoky and creamy flavors.
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FAQ
Q: Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
A: Fresh salmon is best for texture and flavor, but if you use canned, drain it well and adjust the breadcrumbs to hold the patties together.
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Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to bind the patties.
Q: Can I prepare patties ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can form the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling.
Q: What’s a good side dish?
A: Fresh salads, grilled veggies, or sweet potato fries complement these burgers nicely.
Conclusion
Grilled salmon burgers with avocado salsa are a fresh, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy seafood any time of year. They’re easy to make, packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, and versatile enough to customize to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for a nutritious meal, these burgers deliver on taste and satisfaction.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can bring restaurant-quality flavors to your own kitchen. The creamy avocado salsa perfectly complements the smoky, tender salmon patties, creating a balanced bite that everyone will love. Plus, with tips on storage, reheating, and chef secrets, you’ll feel confident making these burgers again and again.
Give this recipe a try and discover why grilled salmon burgers are becoming a new classic in homes across the U.S. Enjoy the delicious, wholesome flavors and share the love with family and friends!
Irresistible Grilled Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa – Quick and Nutritious
Description
Juicy grilled salmon burgers paired with a zesty avocado salsa make the perfect healthy meal—fresh, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Ideal for summer grilling or a light, satisfying dinner any time of year.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare Patties: In a bowl, mix salmon, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties.
Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high (about 375°F). Oil grates. Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through.
Make Salsa: Combine avocado, tomato, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Assemble: Place patties on buns or lettuce wraps. Top with avocado salsa and any desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use wild-caught salmon for richer flavor.
The patties can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
For extra zing, add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeño to the salsa.
Lettuce wraps make a great low-carb alternative to buns.