If you’re craving a burger that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully healthy, this Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe is exactly what you need. It beautifully combines flaky salmon with vibrant spinach and tangy feta cheese, creating patties that are juicy, savory, and perfectly textured. These burgers offer a refreshing twist on traditional beef patties, packing in nutrients without sacrificing any of the comfort and satisfaction of a classic burger. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or impressing guests, this recipe guarantees a delightful meal that hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to deliver a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color. From the rich salmon to the creamy feta, every component plays an essential role in bringing the Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe to life.
- 1 lb fresh or canned salmon, drained and flaked: The star protein providing a delicate, flaky base full of omega-3s.
- 1/2 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry: Adds vibrant green color and a healthy boost without sogginess.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Brings a salty, tangy bite that complements the salmon beautifully.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs): Helps bind the patties while adding a little crunch.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of savory aroma to the mix.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional): Imparts a fresh, herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with fish.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and lifts the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking): Ensures a beautiful golden crust on the patties.
- Burger buns (gluten-free if desired): The perfect handheld vessel for your delicious patties.
- Fresh greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.): Adds crispness and freshness to each bite.
- Tomato slices: Juicy and refreshing, balancing the richness of the salmon.
- Tartar sauce or tzatziki (optional): Creamy condiments that elevate the burger experience.
How to Make Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Begin by combining your flaked salmon with squeezed-dry spinach, crumbled feta, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, optional fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything together thoroughly until you have a uniform mixture. If it feels a bit sticky, don’t worry—just pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up. This step is key to ensuring your patties hold their shape during cooking.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide your mixture into four equal portions and shape each piece into a round patty about ¾ inch thick. Make sure they are compact but not overly compressed, allowing for a juicy texture once cooked. The size is perfect for fitting into your burger buns without overpowering the other layers of your sandwich.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Burgers
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the patties in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C). This cooking method gives you that irresistible crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the burgers to your buns or lettuce wraps if you prefer a low-carb option. Layer with fresh greens, juicy tomato slices, and your favorite sauce, whether that’s tartar sauce, tzatziki, or even a simple squeeze of lemon. The combination of creamy, fresh, and tangy layers perfectly complements the flavorful salmon patties.
How to Serve Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a wonderful way to elevate your Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe and personalize it. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley sprinkled over the top bring a fresh aroma, while a dollop of creamy tzatziki or tartar sauce adds lush, cooling contrast. Thinly sliced red onions or avocado bring texture and flavor nuances that make each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
These salmon burgers pair marvelously with simple sides that don’t compete with their vibrant flavors. A crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or sweet potatoes provide fantastic complementary colors and tastes. For a more casual feel, seasoned sweet potato fries or a light quinoa salad offer a filling yet light accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try serving these patties atop a bed of mixed greens as an open-faced sandwich or wrapped inside warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. You can also turn them into sliders for a party platter, garnished with colorful veggies and served alongside a variety of dips to keep things fun and interactive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover salmon burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy your homemade Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe again without compromising quality.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freezing for about an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen patties can last up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results and follow the cooking instructions as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your cooked salmon burgers in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the patties. Proper reheating helps maintain their juicy, tender texture and delicious flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen salmon works just fine as long as it’s properly thawed and drained to remove excess moisture. Both fresh and canned salmon are great options depending on what you have on hand.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be easily adapted to be gluten-free by swapping regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or using crushed nuts as a binder. Just make sure the burger buns you choose are gluten-free too if you want to keep it entirely gluten-free.
Can I make the patties in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties a few hours ahead or even the day before. Keep them covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to cook to ensure they hold together well and taste fresh.
What sauces pair best with this recipe?
Tartar sauce and tzatziki are fantastic choices that complement the salmon’s flavor beautifully. You could also try a lemon aioli, dill mayo, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavor kick.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Make sure your ingredients are well combined and that the mixture is chilled before shaping the patties. Using an egg and breadcrumbs as binders helps hold everything together. Cooking them on medium heat without flipping too frequently allows a nice crust to form that keeps them intact.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about a homemade burger that’s both wholesome and packed with vibrant, fresh flavors. This Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe is a perfect example of that balance, delivering a tasty, nutritious meal you’ll want to come back to time and again. Give it a try and enjoy the joyful blend of salmon, spinach, and tangy feta in every bite—your taste buds will thank you!
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Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers are a delicious and healthy twist on classic burgers, combining tender salmon with nutritious spinach and tangy feta cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, they make a perfect quick meal served on buns or lettuce wraps with fresh greens and tomato slices.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh or canned salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Cooking and Serving
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Burger buns (gluten-free if desired)
- Fresh greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
- Tomato slices
- Tartar sauce or tzatziki (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Patties: In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, cooked spinach, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, dill (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated, forming a cohesive mixture.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the salmon mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty. If the mixture feels too sticky or loose, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to help firm up the patties before cooking.
- Heat the Pan: Warm olive oil in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat until hot but not smoking, preparing the surface for cooking the patties evenly.
- Cook the Burgers: Carefully place the patties in the heated pan. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety and optimal texture.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place the cooked salmon patties onto burger buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Top with fresh greens, tomato slices, and your choice of sauces such as tartar sauce or tzatziki to enhance flavor.
- Serve: Complement your burgers with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad to complete the meal, making it balanced and satisfying.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy these healthy, flavorful Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers with family or friends.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.
- Refrigerating the patties before cooking helps them hold together better.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but be sure to squeeze out excess water.
- Fresh dill adds a nice herbal touch but is optional.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon burgers reach a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- For a low-carb meal, serve the patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
