Salmon burgers have earned their place as a beloved dish for food enthusiasts worldwide.
And the tender, flavorful nature of a salmon burger serves as the perfect blank canvas for a myriad of toppings.
Whether you prefer sticking with classic combinations or daring to be different, there’s no denying that the right salmon burger toppings can elevate your dining experience.
In this guide, we’re about to embark on a culinary journey exploring good toppings for salmon burgers, ranging from the traditional to the truly outlandish.
So strap in and get ready to get inspired!
What Is a Salmon Burger?
A salmon burger is a culinary delight featuring a tender salmon patty with a mild but rich and oceanic flavor and a tender texture, which is typically sandwiched between two buns.
It’s known to be a healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it’s not only delicious but also beneficial for heart health.
But that’s not all. A salmon burger patty's lightness, softness, and moistness create a versatile canvas that goes with an array of toppings.
Some of the best toppings for salmon burgers include those that give the salmon patty a satisfying crunch, provide a rich, buttery contrast, or lend tangy and herbaceous notes that enhance the salmon’s natural richness.
Curious about which toppings can do this? Join us as we explore the best topping options in detail!
Classic Toppings: Rediscovering the Best Salmon Burger Toppings
Ah, the classics. These simple salmon burger toppings have stood the test of time — they're widely loved and accepted by all.
You’re likely to find them at any summer BBQ or family gathering.
But don’t let their familiarity fool you.
When done right, these traditional and easy salmon burger toppings can make your burger taste just as exciting as any eccentric topping.
Lettuce and Tomato
Lettuce and tomato are burger classics for a reason.
Fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon patty.
Pro Tip: Consider grilling or roasting your tomatoes for extra flavor.
Additionally, opt for butterhead or romaine lettuce for a satisfying crunch. Keep it crisp by refrigerating it with a paper towel.
Red Onions
Red onions bring a unique spicy and sweet taste to your salmon burger that’s simply unmatched.
Their sharpness cuts through the richness of the salmon, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Pro Tip: For a versatile twist, you can grill or caramelize red onions to bring out their inherent sweetness, complementing your burger’s taste.
Also, aim for thin slices to ensure they harmonize with your other salmon burger toppings without dominating the flavor of your dish.
Pickles
Pickles add a tangy twist to your salmon burger that perfectly complements its flavor.
These vinegar-soaked cucumber slices bring a burst of acidity, playing a crucial role in harmonizing with your salmon and other toppings.
You can freely choose your favorite pickle variety to go on top of your salmon burger, be it classic dill pickles or sweet bread and butter slices.
Pro Tip: For more crunch, you can coat your pickles in a batter made with flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and water and fry them up before using them as a topping.
Classic Mayo
Mayonnaise’s velvety texture and mild flavor make it a beloved choice for salmon burgers.
A creamy delight, it’s delicious on its own, but it can also tie other salmon burger toppings together.
Pro Tip: Want a burst of zesty freshness? Add a bit of lemon juice to your mayo.
But if you're craving a subtle kick of heat, sprinkle it with some pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to it.
Mustard
Mustard, whether spicy or mild, brings a tang to your salmon burger.
It adds a depth of flavor, with its sharpness enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Pro Tip: There are numerous mustard varieties to choose from, including Dijon, which brings a bold, tangy taste that goes perfectly with the mild flavor of your salmon patty.
You can also go for whole grain mustard, which offers a wonderful crunch when spread on your buns, or honey mustard, which adds sweetness to the mix.
Ketchup
The sweet and tangy notes of ketchup are a classic in the burger realm.
Its vibrant red color and familiar flavor can provide comfort to many.
Pro Tip: Mix ketchup with some horseradish or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up. You can also add some dill to your ketchup for a more complex, herbaceous flavor.
Cheese
Cheese melting over a hot salmon patty is a sight to behold, making your salmon burger just irresistible.
Whether it's the sharpness of cheddar or the butteriness of Havarti, a cheese topping for a salmon burger introduces a creamy, gooey texture and a rich taste that makes the salmon pop.
Pro Tip: American cheese and Havarti cheese slices will melt exceptionally well on a hot salmon patty.
Avocado Slices
Avocados bring a buttery texture and a subtle nutty flavor to the table.
Their creaminess perfectly contrasts with the flaky salmon, providing a melt-in-the-mouth experience.
Rich in healthy fats, they're an excellent choice as a healthy and rich topping for your salmon burger.
Pro Tip: Enhance the flavor of your avocado slices with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Crispy Bacon
Bacon and salmon may initially sound like an unusual combination, but it's pure culinary magic when they meet in a salmon burger.
The crispy, smoky bacon strips elevate the overall flavor and texture profile of the burger, and their saltiness complements the mildness of the salmon.
Plus, the allure of bacon is hard to resist, adding an extra layer of indulgence to your meal.
Pro Tip: To achieve perfectly crispy bacon, try baking it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This method ensures even cooking and minimal splattering.
Grilled Pineapple
For those who adore the sweet and savory combination, grilled pineapple is a must-try.
The charred, caramelized slices bring a tropical sweetness that’s alluring.
Their natural sugar counterbalances the savory elements of the burger, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.
Pro Tip: You can also marinate your salmon patty briefly in pineapple juice before grilling can add sweetness to your dish.
Aim for 10 to 15 minutes of marinating time for the perfect balance of flavors.
Barbecue Sauce
Smoky, sweet, and tangy, barbecue sauce is summer in a battle. Adding some to your salmon burger transports you to those warm outdoor gatherings.
It complements your salmon patty by introducing a smoky sweetness.
Whether you prefer a classic version or one with some spice, barbecue sauce never disappoints. And it can also double as a key ingredient in your marinade for a more intense flavor infusion.
Pro Tip: Want to whip up your own homemade barbecue sauce? Mix ketchup, apple cider or red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, water, and paprika.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms sautéed in butter or olive oil are an earthy delight. They bring a meaty texture and a deep, umami flavor that’s irresistible.
On a salmon burger, they make for a luxurious and satisfying topping.
Pro Tip: Add some garlic or herbs during the sautéing process to make your mushrooms even more delicious.
Jalapeño Slices
These thin, green pepper rings bring a spicy kick and delightful crunch to the table.
By incorporating these fiery jalapeño slices into your salmon burger, you'll introduce an exciting contrast in texture and a burst of bold, peppery taste that harmonizes perfectly with the salmon patty.
Pro Tip: To mellow the heat of your jalapeños, remove the seeds and membranes. Also, try pickling them for a tangy twist or grilling them quickly to accentuate their smoky flavor.
International Flavors: Going ’Round the Globe With Your Patty
Who says your salmon burger can’t be a global flavor adventure?
Explore a world of taste with these creative salmon burger toppings, each inspired by international cuisines, offering a delightful twist to your burger experience.
Travel from the vibrant streets of Mexico to the aromatic kitchens of India with these toppings, promising a whirlwind of flavors.
Kimchi
Kimchi, known for its fiery, fermented profile, imparts a distinct Korean flair to your salmon burger.
Its tangy zing, spicy kick, and slight crispness create a delectable harmony with the mild flavor and flaky texture of the salmon patty. Plus, its vibrant hues add more color to your plate!
Pro Tip: For an extra punch of flavor, try pan-frying your kimchi briefly before adding it to your salmon burger; it brings delightful smokiness and depth to the dish.
Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce, a creamy blend of Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, serves as a refreshing topping that complements the savory salmon patty in your burger.
The coolness of tzatziki contrasts with the warmth of your salmon patty, while its tanginess amps up its flavor, creating a delightful sensory experience.
Pro Tip: Before making your tzatziki sauce, be sure to grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture for a smoother, less watery consistency.
Mango Salsa
Sweet mango chunks combined with spicy jalapenos and zesty lime make this Latin American delight a tropical treat!
The freshness of mango salsa offsets rich, fishy flavors, making it an ideal choice to pair with fish like tuna and salmon.
Used on top of a salmon burger, it gives the dish a bright, invigorating flavor.
Pro Tip: Make sure to use ripe mangos for this, as unripe ones may be too sour to go with your salmon burger.
Guacamole
Guacamole, a Mexican sauce boasting a creamy avocado base with a subtle tang of lime and a touch of cilantro, is a great salmon burger topping.
Its richness pairs well with a tender salmon patty for a truly satisfying experience.
Pro Tip: Put a personalized twist on your guacamole with a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce.
Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce boasts a very pleasant fusion of savory and sweet flavors.
Crafted with the umami taste of soy sauce, the sweet essence of mirin and sugar, and the astringent flavor of sake, teriyaki sauce gives your salmon burger a more complex, delectable flavor profile.
Pro Tip: When using teriyaki sauce as a salmon burger topping, remember that a little goes a long way. Be cautious not to overwhelm the delicate salmon flavor with too much of the sauce.
Just brushing a small amount of it onto your hot salmon patty for a mouthwatering glaze is enough for you to enjoy its taste to the fullest!
Sriracha Mayo
For those who like it hot, sriracha mayo is a godsend.
Its heat contrasts with the mild flavors of the fish, creating a fiery yet delightful experience with each bite.
Pro Tip: To give your sriracha mayo more tang, add two tablespoons of lemon juice to it.
Curried Yogurt
Curried yogurt is a flavor-packed topping for a salmon burger patty.
It marries the exotic allure of curry powder and different spices with the tanginess of yogurt, creating a unique and delightful sauce with a bold flavor.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of paprika and turmeric to enhance the color and flavor of this topping.
Chimichurri
Originating from Argentina, chimichurri is a vibrant sauce bursting with fresh flavors. It’s a harmonious blend of parsley, garlic, vinegar, and chili, delivering both tanginess and spice.
A drizzle of chimichurri atop your salmon patty provides a delectable and invigorating twist.
Pro tip: You can use chimichurri as a marinade for your salmon patty. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling or pan-frying for an extra burst of flavor.
Pico de Gallo
Searching for a salmon burger topping with no mayo? Choose pico de gallo, a vibrant salsa that boasts a medley of flavors with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime.
It’s an ideal companion for a salmon burger, injecting a burst of zesty freshness into it.
Pro Tip: Opt for ripe tomatoes when making pico de gallo; they offer a natural sweetness. You can also add some freshly squeezed lime juice for a bit of tanginess.
Wasabi Mayo
Wasabi mayo brings a fiery Japanese twist to your salmon burger experience. It marries the sharp, pungent notes of wasabi with the creaminess of mayo, resulting in a sauce that delivers both spiciness and velvety smoothness.
Enhancing your salmon burger, a dollop of this tantalizing topping promises a wasabi kick with every bite.
Pro Tip: Always start with a small amount of wasabi paste when you’re making wasabi mayo to avoid excess spiciness. You can gradually increase to your desired level of heat.
Mix it well with mayo for a fiery but well-balanced sauce that won’t overpower the salmon’s flavor.
Healthy and Fresh: Nutrient-Packed Flavors
Hunting for healthy salmon burger toppings to pair with your nutritious salmon patties?
Good news: there’s no need to compromise on flavor when going for healthier toppings, and our list of the best ones below proves this.
Top your salmon burger with some of these nutrient-packed options!
Spinach and Feta
Individually, spinach and feta bring distinct qualities to the table.
The spinach adds an earthy flavor to your salmon burger, while feta introduces a delightful saltiness that harmonizes beautifully with the fish.
And together, they create a low-calorie, low-fat topping combo that’s truly enjoyable.
Pro Tip: Wilt your spinach slightly in a pan with a touch of olive oil and garlic before topping your salmon patty with it to slightly soften the leaves.
As for your feta cheese, try whipping it with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil to make it creamier.
Hummus
Celebrated for its creamy texture and subtle nutty undertones, hummus serves as a nutritious and delectable topping for your salmon burger.
Its velvety consistency beautifully juxtaposes the flakiness of the salmon.
Pro Tip: Don’t like boring old hummus? Experiment with different hummus variations like roasted red pepper hummus or broccoli and cheddar hummus.
Grilled Veggies
Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are fantastic additions to your salmon burger, introducing a delightful charred sweetness.
And aside from amplifying the burger’s taste with their smoky flavors, they also serve as a nutritionally balanced topping.
Pro Tip: To grill these veggies to perfection, slice them evenly and brush them with olive oil before grilling.
Kale Slaw
Kale slaw offers an alluring twist on traditional coleslaw, delivering both nutrition and flavor.
The robust, earthy notes of kale pair harmoniously with a salmon burger, creating a topping that’s full of freshness and zing.
Pro Tip: Opt for fresh kale leaves to ensure they’re crisp and vibrant. Massage the kale with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice to soften its texture and mellow out its natural bitterness.
Radish Salsa
This combination of crisp, slightly spicy notes of radishes with the rich, savory flavors of the burger.
The contrast in textures — with the burger's tenderness and the salsa's crunch — adds depth to each bite.
Pro Tip: Letting the chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before spooning it on top of your burger can also augment its refreshing taste.
Greek Yogurt and Dill
Greek yogurt and dill team up to deliver a wonderful, creamy sensation with a zesty kick. Topping your salmon burger with this sauce gives it some refreshing tanginess.
It also introduces a smooth layer that enhances the salmon burger’s overall texture while keeping it a guilt-free indulgence.
Pro Tip: Opt for Greek yogurt with at least 2% fat for a richer texture.
Bean Sprouts
Bean sprouts are an excellent choice to add crunch and freshness to your salmon burger.
Their mild, nutty flavor pairs harmoniously with the salmon’s taste.
Pro Tip: Rinse bean sprouts thoroughly and pat them dry to ensure they stay crisp. You can also blanch them briefly for a vibrant color and slightly tender texture, making them the perfect salmon burger topping.
Eccentric and Daring: For Culinary Adventurers
Attention, culinary thrill-seekers: this section is for you.
With these unique salmon burger topping ideas, you can push the boundaries of your taste buds and captivate your guests with a sense of curiosity and amazement.
So if you’re ready to embark on a gustatory adventure, let’s plunge right in!
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter infuses your salmon burger with a creamy richness, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of savory flavor.
A generous layer of peanut butter atop your salmon patty will make it lusciously flavorful — and even help keep it moist.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different peanut butter varieties — like crunchy or honey-infused peanut butter — for added texture and sweetness.
Smoked Salmon Roe
Smoked salmon roe takes your salmon burger to the next level with its briny taste and unique slippery texture.
It introduces a touch of luxury and a gourmet twist that upgrades both the flavor and presentation of your dish.
Pro Tip: Delicately add a spoonful of smoked salmon roe onto your salmon burger just before serving to preserve its delicate texture and ensure a delightful burst of flavor.
Blue Cheese Crumbles
A daring and delicious topping choice, these crumbles bring a creamy, tangy, and funky flavor to the dish.
Their bold, complex taste pairs wonderfully with the richness of salmon, creating a satisfying contrast.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles generously on top of the hot salmon patty. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, enhancing its creaminess.
Crispy Onion Rings
Known for their enticing golden exterior and tender inner layers, onion rings introduce an alluring texture contrast to the salmon burger.
These savory rings elevate the overall flavor profile of the salmon, transforming every bite into a delightful, crunchy experience.
They serve as a topping that adds both fun and flavor, ensuring a smile accompanies each mouthful.
Pro Tip: Want crispier results? Double-dip your onion rings in the batter. Also, you can use a seasoned flour mixture for added depth of flavor, and consider choosing Vidalia onions for more sweetness.
Pomegranate Seeds
These tiny ruby red seeds bring a burst of delightful tartness to your salmon burger.
Their sweet and tangy profile creates a harmonious counterpoint to the burger’s richness, resulting in a perfectly balanced symphony of flavors.
Pro Tip: To easily extract the seeds, cut a pomegranate in half and tap the back with a spoon. Use a bowl to catch the seeds.
Spicy Raspberry Compote
Sweet raspberries and chilies come together in this unique fruity sauce!
Raspberries bring a burst of natural sweetness, balancing the rich flavors, while the spicy kick adds a bold, fiery dimension that enhances the overall flavor profile of your salmon burger.
Pro Tip: You can either blend ripe raspberries into a smooth consistency for a smoother sauce or leave them chunky for added texture.
Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or fewer chili peppers or less hot sauce.
Bacon Jam
Bacon jam, made from caramelized bacon, serves as an exquisite topping for enhancing the flavor of your salmon burgers.
In this concoction, sweetness harmonizes with savoriness, and the subtle smokiness of bacon further brings the flavor profile to new heights, resulting in a mouthwatering delight that complements salmon burgers.
Pro Tip: Warm the bacon jam slightly before spreading it, intensifying its flavor and ensuring a delightful melt-in-the-mouth experience.
Chili Chocolate Sauce
Nothing says daring like the extraordinary fusion of sweet and spicy flavors found in a delectable chili chocolate sauce.
Chili peppers, the fiery stars of this sauce, add a captivating heat that harmonizes beautifully with the richness of chocolate, making for a one-of-a-kind but succulent salmon burger topping that offers a delightful surprise with every bite.
Pro Tip: Use smaller peppers if you want more of a kick. Combine them with high-quality dark chocolate in a double boiler on low heat for a smooth sauce.
Goat Cheese and Honey
The pairing of goat cheese and honey offers a wonderful blend of contrasting flavors.
The creamy, tangy notes of goat cheese harmonize beautifully with the natural sweetness of honey.
This dynamic duo adds a touch of sophistication to your dish.
Pro Tip: When using goat cheese, allow it to come to room temperature before spreading it on your burger for a smoother texture. Drizzle honey sparingly to avoid overwhelming the palate.
Pickled Ginger
Originating from Japan, pickled ginger is a delightful condiment that often shares the plate with sushi. Its distinct tanginess and vibrant pink hue add visual and gustatory appeal to any dish.
When used as a salmon burger topping, pickled ginger provides a fresh, bright, and tangy flavor that boosts the burger’s flavor.
The sharp and zesty notes of pickled ginger beautifully complement the salmon's taste, resulting in a culinary experience that effortlessly melds the culinary traditions of the East with the West.
Pro Tip: Marinating pickled ginger briefly in a touch of soy sauce incorporates an extra layer of umami into this topping.
Don't forget to pat it dry before adding it to your salmon burger to ensure optimal texture.
Maple Syrup and Bacon
Maple syrup and bacon create a delectable fusion and offer an exquisite flavor balance.
The sticky sweetness of maple syrup goes seamlessly with the savory smokiness of perfectly cooked bacon when placed atop a salmon burger.
Pro Tip: When drizzling maple syrup over your salmon burger topped with bacon, do it just before serving to maintain its glossy texture and avoid sogginess.
Fig Jam and Prosciutto
Fig jam and prosciutto bring sophistication and depth to your salmon burger.
The culinary combo puts together sweet, earthy figs and salty, slightly chewy prosciutto that bring an exciting contrast to your moist, light salmon patty.
Pro Tip: Glaze fig jam over your prosciutto and grill it for extra flavor and a slightly crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for Making Salmon Burgers, Or Is Fresh Salmon Better?
You can use frozen salmon to make salmon burgers, but fresh salmon is often preferred for its better texture and flavor.
If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it properly before preparation because improperly thawed meat may become soggy or cook unevenly.
What's the Best Way To Reheat Leftover Salmon Burgers Without Drying Them Out?
To reheat leftover salmon burgers without drying them out, place them in an oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes or until sufficiently warmed.
Avoid exposing them to heat for longer periods, as this may interfere with their moisture and flavor.
What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes To Serve With Salmon Burgers?
Popular side dishes for a salmon burger include sweet potato chips or fries, quinoa salads, potato salad, or a simple garden salad. These complement the flavor of salmon burgers nicely.
Dress Up Your Salmon Burger With Scrumptious Toppings
Among the many burger recipes and variants around the world, a salmon burger stands out for its versatility and adaptability.
And with salmon burger toppings that span from classic to eccentric, there’s no limit to how you can dress up this seafood delight.
Whether you’re a traditionalist or a daring food explorer, there’s a topping combination out there that’s just right for your palate.
So why wait? Dive into these toppings, mix and match, and create your own signature version of a succulent salmon burger.
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