These Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa are juicy, zesty, and loaded with bold flavors.
The poblano peppers and green onions add a subtle kick, while the creamy avocado salsa on top keeps everything cool and refreshing.
Whether you serve them with a bun or on a bed of greens, they’re the perfect summer dinner.
Why I Love This Recipe
Fresh salmon gives these burgers amazing texture and flavor
Easy to prep and cook – ready in under 30 minutes
Avocado salsa on top makes it feel fancy (but it’s super simple)
Healthy, light, and packed with protein
Great with or without a bun
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Salmon fillet – Use fresh, skinless salmon for best texture
Panko breadcrumbs – Adds lightness and helps bind the burgers
Green onions & poblano pepper – Brings flavor and mild heat
Egg – Keeps everything together
Fresh lemon or lime juice – Brightens everything up
Avocado – Creamy and cool, perfect contrast to the warm burgers
Simple seasoning – Just salt and pepper to let the ingredients shine
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chop salmon finely for better binding and even cooking
Use a food processor if you prefer a quicker method
Wet your hands when forming patties – less sticking
Make the salsa right before serving to keep avocado fresh
Grill or pan-sear – both work great with this recipe
How to Make Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Remove the skin and finely chop the salmon fillet into small chunks.
Place the chopped salmon into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Burger Ingredients
Add panko breadcrumbs, egg, chopped green onions, chopped poblano pepper, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Shape and Cook the Patties
Form the salmon mixture into burger-sized patties.
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Avocado Salsa
In a separate bowl, combine chopped avocado, chopped poblano pepper, green onions, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Gently stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Top each cooked salmon burger with a generous spoonful of avocado salsa.
Serve on toasted buns or over a salad for a bun-free option.
What to Serve It With
Toasted brioche buns or lettuce wraps
Roasted sweet potato wedges
Cucumber salad or coleslaw
A cold sparkling lemonade or citrus iced tea
Variations / Substitutions
Make it gluten-free with GF panko or almond meal
Go paleo or Whole30 by using crushed plantain chips instead of breadcrumbs
Add heat with a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños
Use cilantro in the salsa for a fresh twist
Serve as sliders for a party-friendly version
Storage & Leftovers
Uncooked patties: Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking
Cooked burgers: Refrigerate up to 3 days in an airtight container
Avocado salsa: Best served fresh, but can be stored with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface for up to 1 day
Freeze uncooked burgers: Separate with parchment and freeze up to 2 months
Reheat cooked patties in a skillet or air fryer for best texture
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon?
Fresh salmon is best for texture, but canned will work in a pinch—just drain it very well.
How do I keep the burgers from falling apart?
Make sure the salmon is finely chopped and the egg and panko are well mixed in to bind.
Can I cook these in a skillet?
Yes! A lightly oiled nonstick skillet over medium-high heat works perfectly.
What can I use instead of poblano peppers?
You can substitute with bell peppers for mild flavor or jalapeños for heat.
Is the avocado salsa spicy?
It has a mild kick from the poblano, but it’s mostly creamy and fresh.
Do I need to chill the patties before cooking?
Chilling for 10–15 minutes can help them hold shape, but it’s not required.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Make the patties and store in the fridge, then cook fresh when ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
These Salmon Burgers with Avocado Salsa are a vibrant, healthy, and satisfying meal that feels restaurant-quality but comes together in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors or pan-searing indoors, the result is juicy, flavorful burgers with a fresh, creamy topping that takes them over the top.
