These salmon burgers with lemon basil mayo are a delightful twist on the classic burger. The fresh flavors of salmon, lemon, and basil come together to create a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to impress.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common, you may need to pay special attention to fresh basil and salmon fillet. Fresh basil can usually be found in the produce section, often near other fresh herbs. For the salmon fillet, make sure to choose a high-quality piece from the seafood section, and ask the fishmonger to remove the skin if it's not already done.
Ingredients for Salmon Burgers with Lemon Basil Mayo
Salmon fillet: The main protein for the burgers, providing a rich and flavorful base.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the burger mixture together, giving it structure.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.
Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness to the patties and the lemon basil mayo.
Lemon juice: Provides a bright, tangy flavor that complements the salmon.
Fresh basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic flavor to both the patties and the mayo.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the burgers.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the flavor profile.
Technique Tip for Making Salmon Burgers
When forming the salmon patties, make sure your hands are slightly damp. This will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands and help you shape the patties more easily. Additionally, chilling the patties in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes before grilling can help them hold their shape better on the grill.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
salmon fillet - Substitute with tuna fillet: Tuna has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative for salmon in burgers.
breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide a similar binding and texture to the burgers.
beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: A mixture of flaxseed meal and water can act as a binding agent for those who prefer a vegan option.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to mayonnaise but with fewer calories.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a suitable replacement for lemon juice.
chopped fresh basil - Substitute with chopped fresh parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to basil.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the taste of the burgers.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar spiciness but a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative.
mayonnaise - Substitute with avocado: Mashed avocado can provide a creamy texture and healthy fats, similar to mayonnaise.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a similar tangy flavor to lemon juice.
chopped fresh basil - Substitute with chopped fresh cilantro: Cilantro can offer a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor, making it a good alternative to basil.
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How to Store or Freeze Your Salmon Burgers
- Allow the salmon burgers to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the burgers soggy.
- Wrap each salmon patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their shape and prevents freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. This initial freezing step ensures they don't stick together.
- Once the patties are frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Store the lemon basil mayo separately in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to one week. Do not freeze the mayo as it can separate and lose its creamy texture.
- When ready to use, thaw the salmon patties in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
- Reheat the thawed patties on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This helps retain their original texture and flavor.
- Serve the reheated salmon burgers on fresh buns with a generous dollop of the lemon basil mayo on top for the best taste experience.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the salmon burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the burgers with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Serve with a fresh dollop of lemon basil mayo.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
- Place the salmon burgers in the skillet and cover with a lid.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until heated through.
- Serve immediately with lemon basil mayo.
Microwave Method:
- Place the salmon burgers on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Ensure the burgers are heated evenly; add more time if necessary.
- Serve with a fresh dollop of lemon basil mayo.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the salmon burgers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for even heating and adjust time if needed.
- Serve with lemon basil mayo.
Grill Method:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the salmon burgers on the grill and cover.
- Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until warmed through.
- Serve with a fresh dollop of lemon basil mayo.
Essential Tools for Making Salmon Burgers
Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, lemon juice, basil, salt, and pepper.
Grill: A cooking device used to cook the salmon patties by applying direct heat.
Spatula: A flat tool used to flip the salmon patties on the grill.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the precise amounts of breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the precise amounts of salt, pepper, and chopped basil.
Small bowl: Used to mix the lemon basil mayo.
Knife: Used to chop the salmon fillet and fresh basil.
Cutting board: A surface used for chopping the salmon fillet and basil.
Whisk: Used to beat the egg before adding it to the salmon mixture.
Tongs: Used to handle the salmon patties on the grill.
Buns: Used to serve the salmon burgers.
Spoon: Used to dollop the lemon basil mayo onto the salmon burgers.
How to Save Time on Making Salmon Burgers
Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the salmon and basil ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Quickly combine the salmon mixture by pulsing it in a food processor instead of mixing by hand.
Pre-make the mayo: Prepare the lemon basil mayo the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Form patties ahead: Shape the salmon patties and refrigerate them until ready to grill.
Preheat the grill: Start preheating the grill while forming the patties to ensure it's ready when you are.

Salmon Burgers with Lemon Basil Mayo
Ingredients
Salmon Burgers
- 1 lb salmon fillet skin removed, chopped
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg beaten
- 2 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon Basil Mayo
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, 2 tablespoon mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into 4 patties.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and chopped basil to make the lemon basil mayo.
- Serve the salmon burgers on buns with a dollop of lemon basil mayo on top.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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