Name: Fresh Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 500 g Salmon fillets (skinless and boneless); 15 g Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives); Zest of 1 Lemon; 1 tsp Garlic powder; 1 Medium egg; 4 tbsp Plain flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 1-2 tsp Milk; 50 g Peas (defrosted); Olive oil (for frying); 300 ml Natural yoghurt; 1/2 Cucumber (grated); 1 clove Garlic (crushed); Lettuce leaves; Burger buns; Tomato slices (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 61 reviews

If you’re craving a burger that feels fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this Fresh Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki Dressing Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the classic burger, blending the delicate, buttery texture of salmon with the bright, herbaceous zing of homemade tzatziki. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend barbecue, these salmon burgers offer an irresistible combination of lightness and heartiness that’s bound to become a new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four bright orange slices of raw salmon with white fat lines arranged side by side on a white plate at the top left. Around the plate are small white bowls holding different ingredients: finely chopped green cucumber at the bottom left, white flour below it, fresh green dill just right of the flour, and round frozen green peas at the middle right. In the center is a bowl with smooth, white cream. To the top right of these bowls are small brown containers with coarse black pepper and white sea salt. An unpeeled brown egg with a green stamp is placed between the pepper, salt, and the white bowls holding minced garlic and milk near the top right. A whole, bright yellow lemon is located at the bottom right, near a small white bowl with a light tan powder. All of this is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly simple but incredibly vital, each playing a unique role in balancing flavors, textures, and colors that make the dish so special.

500 g Salmon fillets (skinless and boneless): The star of the dish, providing a rich and tender base for your burgers.

15 g Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives): Brings a fresh, aromatic brightness that complements the salmon perfectly.
1 Lemon (zest only): Adds a vibrant citrus note that lifts the flavor to the next level.
1 tsp Garlic powder: Offers gentle warmth and depth without overpowering the delicate fish.

1 Medium egg: Acts as a natural binder, helping the patties hold their shape.
4 tbsp Plain flour: Provides structure and a slight hint of chewiness to the patties.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.

1-2 tsp Milk: Used to adjust the batter’s consistency for perfect patties.
50 g Peas (defrosted): Adds little bursts of sweetness and a pleasant pop of color.
Olive oil: For frying, offering both flavor and crispness.
300 ml Natural yoghurt: The creamy base for the cooling tzatziki dressing.

1/2 Cucumber (grated): Injects a refreshing crunch and moisture to your tzatziki.
1 clove Garlic (crushed): Gives the dressing its classic pungent kick.
Lettuce and burger buns: The perfect vehicle to hold your vibrant salmon creation.

How to Make Fresh Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki Dressing Recipe

A clear round food processor bowl is filled with multiple layers of ingredients: the bottom layer is an orange shredded or grated base, topped with fresh green dill bunches spread unevenly around the bowl. On top of the dill, there are scattered bright yellow lemon zest shreds and a mound of white flour sitting mostly on one side. Small black specks of pepper are lightly sprinkled over the herbs. A small amount of red liquid, possibly tomato or pepper juice, is visible near the bottom. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prep the Salmon and Herbs

Begin by cutting your salmon fillets into bite-sized chunks and popping them into a food processor. This step ensures the perfect texture—chunky enough to feel fresh, yet mixed enough to bind well. Then add your chosen herbs, lemon zest, and garlic powder for that fresh, aromatic punch.

Step 2: Blend Until Just Combined

Next, pulse everything gently together with the egg, flour, salt, and pepper. The trick here is to avoid over-blending; you want to preserve some texture so that your burgers don’t become paste-like. Just blend until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Fold in Peas and Adjust Batter

At this stage, stir in the defrosted peas by hand. They add a delightful sweetness and a splash of color. Then mix in enough milk to create a thick, spoonable batter — you want it moist but firm enough to hold shape.

Step 4: Fry Those Patties to Golden Perfection

Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Spoon the salmon mixture into four equal patties and carefully place them in the pan. Cook each side for 8 to 10 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and cook through.

Step 5: Whip Up the Tzatziki Dressing

While your salmon sizzles away, mix the natural yoghurt, grated cucumber, and crushed garlic in a bowl. This creamy tzatziki dressing perfectly balances the savory salmon with its cool, tangy freshness.

Step 6: Assemble and Enjoy

Once the patties are ready, build your burgers with fresh lettuce and buns, and generously drizzle the tzatziki dressing on top. Prepare yourself for a mouthwatering bite that celebrates freshness and bold flavors in every layer.

How to Serve Fresh Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your salmon burgers, think fresh and bright garnishes. Thin slices of red onion or ripe tomatoes add acidity and crunch, while a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like dill or chives amps up the vibrancy. A wedge of lemon on the side is always a lovely touch to squeeze over your burger for an added citrus zip.

Side Dishes

These salmon burgers pair beautifully with light, fresh sides that complement without overwhelming. Consider serving alongside crisp garden salads, roasted sweet potato fries, or even a simple quinoa salad tossed with lemon and herbs. All keep things balanced and delightful.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salmon patties as open-faced sandwiches topped with tzatziki and garnishes on toasted rye or sourdough bread. Or try wrapping them in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that’s just as satisfying. Either way, the Fresh Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki Dressing Recipe always make a show-stopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover salmon burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days, making a quick lunch or dinner option that’s easy to reheat.

Freezing

This recipe also freezes well. For best results, shape and cook the patties, then cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the burgers in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can dry them out. Pair with freshly made tzatziki to revive that fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon can work fine as long as it’s fully thawed and well-drained before cooking. Fresh salmon will provide a slightly better texture, but thawed frozen salmon is a great convenient option.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

No worries! You can finely chop the salmon and herbs by hand and then gently mix everything together. It might take a bit more elbow grease, but the results will still be delicious.

Can I make the tzatziki dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! The tzatziki can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully the next day, making it even more delicious on your salmon burgers.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. The patties can be cooked and stored in the fridge or freezer, and the tzatziki can also be made ahead. They reheat well, making this recipe perfect for preparing in advance and enjoying anytime.

Can I substitute the peas with another vegetable?

Yes, if you prefer, finely chopped green beans or corn kernels would make a tasty substitute. They will add a slightly different texture but just as much color and sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Fresh Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki Dressing Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those special meals that feels both indulgent and light, perfect for sharing good times with family and friends. Once you taste that juicy, herb-filled salmon paired with the cooling tzatziki, you might wonder how you ever enjoyed burgers any other way!