I had the pleasure of living in Colorado for just over 14 years, ten of which were spent in the Colorado Springs area. Restaurants in landlocked states that serve fresh seafood are few and far between. Sometimes, a different take on an item like salmon, which is typically served fresh, can be a pleasant surprise.
I frequented a restaurant that was just down the road from my townhouse. They served a “Salmon BLT” that was basically a salmon burger with bacon and tomato. It was one of my favorite menu items for years until the place closed. Here’s my take on that menu item that I’m calling the “RP Salmon Burger”. It’s an excellent choice for the grill or the skillet.
Ingredients (4 burgers):
• 1.5 lbs fresh skinless salmon, divided
• 1 shallot, minced (or scallions)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• 2 tbsp capers or dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon (zest + juice)
• Salt, pepper
• Optional: egg for binding
• Optional: Your favorite store-bought salmon seasoning for an additional kick
Instructions:
1. Cube salmon; puree 2/3 in food processor for binding.
2. Chop the remaining 1/3 coarsely.
3. Mix all with shallot, breadcrumbs, capers/dill, mustard, lemon zest/juice, and seasonings.
4. Form 4 patties; chill 30 min.
5. Pan-sear or grill 4-5 min per side until 145°F internal.
Tips:
· Use fresh salmon; partially process some into paste for binding, leave the rest chunky for texture.
· Chop and pat the capers dry to reduce water. It helps bind the mixture.
· Place your food processor or blender blades in the freezer to improve function and help keep the blend temperature lower.
· Lemons can make a lot of zest. It freezes well and breaks apart easily when you need a small amount for recipes.
Serve on a toasted bun with tartar sauce, tomato, and arugula.
I like salmon just about any way it comes. According to the internet, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health, reduces inflammation, and lowers triglycerides, while having lower saturated fat (further decreasing heart disease risk), fewer calories, and more nutrients like vitamin D and B12. But why worry about all of that? This is just good stuff. Check out more tips at Reelpassion.com.
