There is something truly special about the Salmon Burger with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe that makes it a standout favorite for any casual dinner or weekend cookout. This dish perfectly balances the tender, flaky texture of fresh salmon with the bright, herby kick of dill and the refreshing creaminess of a Greek yogurt sauce. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that combines vibrant flavors, a satisfying bite, and beautiful presentation, making it an all-around winner you’ll be excited to share with friends and family over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to capturing the fresh, vibrant taste of this Salmon Burger with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe. Each component plays a meaningful role—whether it’s the fresh dill bringing herby brightness, or the Greek yogurt adding creamy tanginess that elevates every bite.
- Skinless salmon fillets (1 1/2 pounds): The main star, providing flaky, moist texture and rich flavor.
- Fresh dill (5 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a fragrant, herbal note that pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Green onions (2, finely chopped): Bring a subtle crunch and mild sharpness to the burger mixture.
- Plain Greek yogurt (both 2 tablespoons for patties, 3/4 cup for sauce): Enhances moisture and adds creamy tang in both salad and sauce.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons for patties, 1 tablespoon for sauce): Brightens and balances flavors with refreshing acidity.
- Lemon zest (1/2 teaspoon): Provides an extra citrus punch for the yogurt sauce.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon for patties, 1/4 teaspoon for sauce): Essential for enhancing all flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For cooking the patties to a golden perfection without stickiness.
- Brioche burger buns (4): Soft and lightly sweet, perfect for holding your luscious salmon patty.
- Optional toppings (sliced red onion, tomato, arugula): Add freshness, slight acidity, and bite to your burger.
How to Make Salmon Burger with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Mix the Salmon
Start by cutting the salmon into small chunks, then pulse half in a food processor for a coarse grind. Combining chopped and ground salmon creates a beautiful texture that’s not too mushy or dense. This balance is what makes the patties hold together while remaining satisfyingly flaky. Next, add fresh dill, green onions, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mixture and gently fold everything just until combined—you want flavorful bites but want to avoid overworking the mixture which could lead to tough burgers.
Step 2: Form and Chill the Patties
Divide the salmon mixture into four even portions, approximately six ounces each, then shape each into a firm 1-inch thick patty using damp hands to prevent sticking. Chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes firms up the patties and helps prevent falling apart during cooking, ensuring you get a beautiful sear on the outside while the inside stays tender.
Step 3: Make the Dill Yogurt Sauce
While the patties rest, whisk together Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and freshly ground black pepper for a fresh sauce. This sauce complements the salmon perfectly by adding creaminess paired with zesty brightness. Cover and refrigerate it until the burgers are ready, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon Patties
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat, ensuring it is hot before adding the patties. Cooking each side for 4-5 minutes will develop a gorgeous golden crust while cooking the patty through. Look for an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C)—this guarantees perfectly cooked salmon that’s juicy and safe to eat. The aroma while cooking will have you eager to dive in.
Step 5: Toast the Buns and Assemble
Toast brioche buns under a broiler or in the pan to add a tender crunch and help prevent sogginess. For assembly, spread a generous dollop of the refreshing dill yogurt sauce on the bottom of each bun, add your salmon patty, then layer on sliced red onions, fresh tomatoes, and peppery arugula if you like. Cap with the top bun, and you are set to enjoy an incredible homemade salmon burger experience!
How to Serve Salmon Burger with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like thinly sliced red onions, juicy tomato slices, and a handful of fresh arugula bring crunch and brightness to your salmon burger. These toppings complement the creamy dill yogurt sauce and beautifully seasoned fish patties, creating a harmony of textures and tastes with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pairing these salmon burgers with crisp, fresh side dishes elevates the meal even further. Consider light salads dressed with lemon vinaigrette, crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries, or even a refreshing cucumber and dill salad. These sides keep the meal bright and balanced and ensure you never feel weighed down.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salmon burger open-faced with the dill yogurt sauce drizzled artistically on top, or create sliders with mini brioche buns for a party platter. You can also serve the patties on crisp lettuce leaves with extra sauce on the side for a low-carb option that still dazzles guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cooked salmon burgers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the dill yogurt sauce separately to keep it fresh and prevent the burgers from becoming soggy. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick, delicious meal the next day without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, formed uncooked salmon patties freeze beautifully. Place parchment paper between each patty, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to maintain that fresh-cooked taste and texture that makes this Salmon Burger with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe so fantastic.
Reheating
To reheat salmon patties, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent the patties from drying out or becoming rubbery. Reheat the dill yogurt sauce separately and add fresh sauce when serving to keep the bright, creamy flavor intact.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh fillets?
While fresh salmon is ideal for texture and flavor, you can substitute canned salmon if needed. Be sure to drain it well and mash it gently, then adjust seasonings accordingly since canned salmon is often saltier and more processed.
How can I make the patties hold together better?
Ensure to chill the patties for at least 10 minutes before cooking. Using a little Greek yogurt in the mix as a binder helps, but you can also add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or an egg if you find the mixture too loose.
Is the dill yogurt sauce necessary?
While you can serve these burgers without sauce, the dill yogurt sauce is what truly elevates the dish by adding creamy, tangy notes that brighten and complement the rich salmon, making each bite more memorable.
What’s the best way to avoid overcooking salmon burgers?
Cook them on medium heat and monitor closely—salmon cooks quickly and can dry out if left too long. Check for a golden crust and an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C) for perfect doneness.
Can I grill these salmon burgers outdoors?
Absolutely! Just make sure your grill is clean and well-oiled. Grill patties over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, just like cooking on a skillet, to achieve that lovely smoky flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying burger experience, this Salmon Burger with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe deserves a spot on your menu soon. Its combination of vibrant herbs, creamy sauce, and tender salmon patties makes for a meal that is both impressive and effortless. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Salmon Burger with Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These flavorful Salmon Burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Made with fresh salmon, dill, and a zesty lemon-yogurt sauce, they are perfectly moist and tender. Quick to prepare and cook, these burgers are ideal for a nutritious lunch or dinner, served on toasted brioche buns with optional fresh toppings like red onion, tomato, and arugula.
Ingredients
Salmon Burgers
- 1 1/2 pounds skinless salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Dill Sauce
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
To Serve
- 4 Brioche burger buns
- Sliced red onion (optional)
- Sliced tomato (optional)
- Arugula (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut the salmon fillets into small bite-sized chunks. Place half of the salmon chunks into a food processor and pulse until coarsely ground. Transfer both the ground and remaining chopped salmon into a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Burger Ingredients: Add fresh dill, green onions, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl with salmon. Gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture to maintain a tender texture.
- Form Patties: Divide the salmon mixture into four equal portions, about 6 ounces each. Using damp hands, firmly shape each portion into a 1-inch thick patty. Place patties in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to firm up before cooking.
- Make the Dill Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth. Cover and refrigerate the sauce until ready to use.
- Cook the Salmon Patties: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Brush the pan with oil if using a grill pan. Once hot, cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C).
- Toast the Buns: Toast the brioche buns under a broiler or in the pan until lightly browned and warm.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of dill sauce on the bottom halves of the buns. Place a salmon patty on each, then top with sliced red onion, tomato, and arugula if desired. Finish with the top buns and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use skinless salmon fillets for easier preparation and better texture.
- Chilling the patties helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145°F ensures food safety and prevents overcooking.
- Dill sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Optional fresh toppings add extra crunch and flavor but can be omitted for simplicity.
- Brioche buns add richness, but you can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free buns.
