If you’re craving a dish that effortlessly combines bright freshness with satisfying heartiness, the Salmon Burgers with Fresh Cabbage Slaw Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This recipe brings together tender, flavorful salmon patties packed with herbs and lemon, paired with a crisp and creamy cabbage slaw that adds an irresistible crunch. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends or family on a casual night or a sunny weekend lunch. Trust me, once you make these salmon burgers, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite that you’ll want to whip up again and again.

Salmon Burgers with Fresh Cabbage Slaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Salmon Burgers with Fresh Cabbage Slaw Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a clear role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor, texture, or that essential fresh bite that makes these burgers pop in every mouthful.

12-14 ounces cooked salmon (canned is great): Provides a tender and flavorful base that’s easy to work with.
2 eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the salmon patties together perfectly.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and keeps the patties from falling apart.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for elevating all the other flavors.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a hint of savory warmth without overpowering the fish.
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill): Brightens the patties with fresh, garden-like notes.
A squeeze of lemon juice: Adds a lively citrus brightness that complements the salmon beautifully.
Olive oil for pan-frying: Ensures a golden, flavorful crust on the patties.
1 head green cabbage, finely shredded: The star of the fresh cabbage slaw, providing crispness and color.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy dressing that’s tangy and healthy.
2-3 tablespoons white distilled vinegar (more to taste): Balances the creaminess of the yogurt with a gentle acidity.
1 teaspoon salt (for slaw): Enhances all the fresh slaw flavors.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for slaw): Adds subtle depth to the dressing.
1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, and dill): Brings the slaw to life with vibrant, herbal notes.
A drizzle of olive oil (for slaw): Rounds out the dressing with richness and gloss.

How to Make Salmon Burgers with Fresh Cabbage Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Burgers

Start by flaking the cooked salmon into a large bowl. This creates the perfect texture for your patties, light yet cohesive. Then, add the eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir everything until the mixture comes together beautifully. Shape this mixture into 3 large or 4 medium-sized patties—this is your chance to decide on the perfect burger size for your appetite.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon Patties

Heat a splash of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Carefully lay your patties into the pan, letting them cook undisturbed for a few minutes so they develop a golden brown crust that’s slightly crispy—oh, that texture! Flip them gently to cook the other side until equally golden. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with a pinch of salt to bring out their full flavor.

Step 3: Make the Fresh Cabbage Slaw

In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage, Greek yogurt, white distilled vinegar, salt, garlic powder, and the chopped fresh herbs. Add a light drizzle of olive oil and mix everything until it’s creamy and well coated. Now’s the moment to taste and adjust: you might want to add a touch more vinegar or salt to perfectly balance the tang and freshness just how you like it.

Step 4: Assemble and Enjoy

Place a warm salmon burger right on a generous bed of that luscious cabbage slaw. You can top it with an extra dollop of yogurt, a swirl of olive oil, and a scattering of fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost and beautiful presentation. Serve these salmon burgers while the patties are still warm, so the mix of textures and flavors really sings.

How to Serve Salmon Burgers with Fresh Cabbage Slaw Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like dill or parsley are perfect for scattering over your salmon burgers. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side is a simple touch that invites your guests to brighten each bite with a little citrus zing. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the slaw and burgers adds a silky sheen and richer mouthfeel that makes every bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp sides like roasted sweet potato fries or a light quinoa salad. The fresh cabbage slaw already delivers crunch and tang, so something subtly savory or mildly sweet on the side creates an exciting contrast. A cold, refreshing cucumber salad with dill or a handful of cherry tomatoes tossed in olive oil would complement the flavors without competing.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of using traditional burger buns, try serving these salmon patties wrapped in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb twist that highlights the freshness. You could also turn this into a vibrant salmon burger bowl by layering the cooked patties over mixed greens with the cabbage slaw on top, then garnishing with avocado slices for creaminess. The bright colors and mix of textures can really make this recipe stand out at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover salmon burgers and cabbage slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the patties from becoming soggy and ensures the slaw stays crisp and fresh. Your leftovers should last nicely for up to 2 days, making them a convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the salmon patties before cooking for easy meal prep. Place the formed patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. The fresh cabbage slaw, however, is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t suitable for freezing due to its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat the cooked salmon patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain their crispy exterior without drying out. Avoid microwaving to keep the best texture. The slaw is best served cold or at room temperature, so prepare a fresh batch if you prefer a vibrant crunch alongside your warmed patties.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh cooked salmon works beautifully in this recipe. Just bake or poach the fresh salmon before flaking it and combining with the other ingredients. Using fresh salmon will give your burgers a slightly different texture and a delicate fish flavor that’s equally delicious.

What fresh herbs are best for this recipe?

Chives, parsley, and dill are ideal because they contribute bright, fresh notes without overpowering the natural salmon flavor. Feel free to mix and match according to what you have on hand or your personal preference. Fresh herbs really elevate both the patties and the cabbage slaw in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This tweak keeps the salmon patties binding just as well without sacrificing the texture or taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. The salmon patties can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, while the cabbage slaw holds up nicely refrigerated for a day or two. This makes it an excellent choice for prepping easy, tasty meals for the week ahead.

How spicy is this dish?

This Salmon Burgers with Fresh Cabbage Slaw Recipe is naturally mild and refreshing, focusing on herbs, lemon, and creamy tanginess. However, if you like a bit of a kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon mixture or the slaw to give it some heat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting yet fresh about these Salmon Burgers with Fresh Cabbage Slaw Recipe, and I truly hope you give it a try soon. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also feels like a healthy, vibrant celebration on your plate. Whip it up for yourself or share with friends—the warm, herby salmon patties nestled on crisp cabbage slaw just might become your next favorite meal to make and enjoy together.