Keto Salmon Burgers: Delicious and Healthy Recipes

Salmon burgers are a delightful and nutritious alternative to traditional beef burgers, especially for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. Packed with healthy fats, high-quality protein, and essential nutrients, these burgers can be customized with various flavors and toppings to suit your taste. This article explores several keto-friendly salmon burger recipes, offering options from classic preparations to Asian-inspired variations.

Why Choose Salmon Burgers?

Salmon is an excellent choice for a keto diet because it is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. Additionally, salmon is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and overall satiety.

Classic Keto Salmon Patties

This recipe focuses on creating simple yet flavorful salmon patties that are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound wild-caught salmon, skin removed and cut into 1/4" sized chunks
• ½ cup super fine almond flour
• 1 scallion, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil

Instructions:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the salmon, almond flour, scallion, eggs, salt, pepper, and dill.
2. Using your hands, form the salmon mixture into eight patties, each about ½ inch thick.
3. Heat a large shallow skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon patties to the skillet, ensuring they do not touch. You may need to cook them in batches.
5. Brown the patties on both sides, then reduce the heat to low and continue cooking until the salmon is opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the patties tender.

Mustard Dill Sauce

A creamy mustard dill sauce complements the salmon patties beautifully.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup sour cream (olive oil mayonnaise may be substituted for a dairy-free option)
• 1 teaspoon mustard (whole grain recommended)
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, minced
• Sea salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or mayonnaise), mustard, and dill.
2. Add sea salt to taste and mix thoroughly.
3. Serve the sauce with the salmon burgers.

Keto Asian Salmon Burgers

For those who enjoy Asian flavors, this recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic salmon burger.

Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers

Ingredients:

• Fresh salmon (or frozen thawed)
• Keto breadcrumbs or pork rinds (for gluten-free option)
• Green onions
• Cilantro
• Soy sauce
• Ginger
• Lemon zest
• Egg
• Celery
• Fresno chile pepper (or jalapeno)
• Garlic
• Avocado oil

Hoisin Sriracha Mayo:

• Mayonnaise
• Hoisin sauce (ensure it’s gluten-free if needed)
• Lemon juice
• Sriracha

Pickled Red Onions:

• You can buy these pre-made or make them yourself.

Garlic Ginger Pickles:

• Adds a tangy and flavorful crunch.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon: Pulse the salmon in a food processor in batches until it reaches a ground meat/sausage-like texture.
2. Make the Hoisin Sriracha Mayo: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and Sriracha. Cover and refrigerate.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the celery, chile pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the salmon, keto breadcrumbs or pork rinds, green onions, cilantro, soy sauce, ginger, lemon zest, and egg. Mix with your hands, then add the cooled celery/chili mixture and combine.
5. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour.
6. Shape Patties: Divide the salmon mixture into 4 equal parts and shape into patties.
7. Cook the Patties: Heat the remaining avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Let the pan come to temperature (about 5 to 8 minutes) and carefully add the patties to the hot oil, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown on the outside. Remove to a plate.
8. Toast the Buns: Meanwhile, toast the keto hamburger buns under the broiler.
9. Assemble the Burgers: Place a patty on a toasted bun, top with hoisin sriracha mayo, pickled red onions, and garlic ginger pickles.

Keto Salmon Cakes with Mustard Dill Sauce

This recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients and a creamy, tangy sauce to create a delightful dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound wild-caught salmon, skin removed
• ½ cup super fine almond flour
• 1 scallion, minced
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil

Sauce:

• ¼ cup sour cream (or olive oil mayonnaise)
• 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, minced
• Sea salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon Cakes: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the salmon, almond flour, scallion, eggs, salt, pepper, and dill.
2. Form the mixture into eight patties, about ½ inch thick.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil.
4. Cook the salmon patties in batches, ensuring they don't touch, until browned on both sides and cooked through.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or mayonnaise), mustard, and dill. Add sea salt to taste.
6. Serve the salmon burgers with the mustard dill sauce.

Easy Keto Salmon Patties with Zucchini and Jalapeño

This recipe incorporates zucchini for added moisture and jalapeño for a touch of heat, resulting in flavorful and healthy salmon patties.

Ingredients:

• Baked or grilled wild salmon (or canned salmon, drained well)
• Zucchini, shredded
• Onion
• Jalapeño
• Cilantro
• Lime juice
• Egg
• Salt
• Almond flour (or almond meal)
• Avocado oil or olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mixture: Add the salmon, zucchini, eggs, onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to a blender and process until well mixed.
2. Form Patties: Form patties about 1/4 cup in size, packing the salmon mixture tightly.
3. Coat with Almond Flour (Optional): Dip the patties in seasoned almond flour to coat.
4. Fry the Patties: Heat avocado oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add salmon patties, leaving space between each patty to allow for browning. Cover the skillet while browning the first side for about 5 minutes. Flip the patties when they are golden brown and continue cooking the second side for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove and Serve: Remove salmon patties from oil and place on a tray lined with paper towels. Repeat with remaining salmon mixture. Serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Keto Salmon Burgers

• Use High-Quality Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon is recommended for the best flavor and nutritional value.
• Binders: Almond flour, eggs, and keto-friendly breadcrumbs (or pork rinds) are excellent binders to hold the patties together.
• Flavor Enhancers: Fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, and scallions add brightness and depth to the patties. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika can also be used.
• Moisture: Adding shredded zucchini or a small amount of mayonnaise can help keep the patties moist.
• Cooking Technique: Cook the patties over medium heat to ensure they are cooked through without burning. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming dry.

Serving Suggestions

Keto salmon burgers can be served in various ways to create a complete and satisfying meal.

• With Keto Buns: Use homemade or store-bought keto hamburger buns for a traditional burger experience.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the patties in lettuce wraps.
• Salads: Top a simple green salad with the salmon patties for a nutritious and filling meal.
• Cauliflower Rice: Serve the burgers with cauliflower rice for a low-carb side dish.
• Avocado Salsa: Top the salmon patties with avocado jicama salsa for a creamy and crunchy twist.
• Sautéed Vegetables: Pair the burgers with sautéed vegetables like red peppers, zucchini, and kale for a balanced meal.

Storing and Reheating

• Storing: Once the salmon patties have cooled to room temperature, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow thawing at room temperature for about 20 minutes prior to reheating.
• Reheating: Preheat the oven to 425º F. Place leftover salmon patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes until hot throughout.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

To make these salmon burgers gluten-free:

• Use ground pork rinds or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Ensure that the hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
• Serve the burgers in lettuce leaves or with gluten-free buns.

Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide

Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto

tags: #keto #salmon #burgers #recipe