Salmon Burgers with Sesame-Soy Glaze Recipe by The Pioneer Woman

A sweet umami drizzle and crisp mint salad turn flaky patties into a vibrant meal treat.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 17, 2025

A sweet umami drizzle and crisp mint salad turn flaky patties into a vibrant meal treat.

Salmon Burgers with Sesame-Soy Glaze: A Quick, Flavorful Dinner

Looking for a lighter, seafood twist on the classic cheeseburger? These Salmon Burgers with Sesame-Soy Glaze, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, bring together the tender, flaky texture of salmon with a sweet, umami glaze and a crunchy, cooling cucumber salad. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering big flavors with minimal prep—and it’s a hit for anyone seeking something different from the usual beef patty.

Why You Must Try These Salmon Burgers

Salmon burgers are not just a healthier alternative to red meat; they also deliver a punch of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making them a satisfying and nourishing meal. The addition of a sesame-soy glaze provides a sweet, salty, and nutty touch that complements the delicate flavor of the salmon. Topped with a tangy, minty cucumber salad, these burgers are a refreshing departure from tradition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather your ingredients for both the burgers, glaze, and salad. Fresh, quality ingredients will take your final dish to new heights.

For the Cucumber Salad

1 English cucumber, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons thinly sliced pickled ginger plus 1 tablespoon of its brine
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Sesame-Soy Glaze

1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil (plus more for flavor adjustment)

For the Salmon Burgers

1 1/4 pounds salmon, skin removed
Remaining 3 tablespoons soy sauce
Remaining 1 teaspoon sesame oil
3 scallions, thinly sliced
Cooking spray
6 toasted buns (preferably brioche or whole wheat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cucumber Salad

Toss all the cucumber salad ingredients together in a medium bowl. Set aside for at least 20 minutes, tossing occasionally, which helps the flavors meld and the cucumbers pick up the tang of the vinegar and ginger brine. The salad can sit for up to an hour, which only enhances its flavor.

Making the Sesame-Soy Glaze

Combine the lime juice, honey, butter, 1/3 cup soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook until it thickens—about 7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool, stirring occasionally, until it becomes glossy and thick. Taste and adjust flavors as needed: adding a bit more honey if it’s too tart, or a touch more sesame oil for a nuttier aroma.

Preparing the Salmon Burgers

Preheat your broiler and coat a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. In a food processor, pulse the salmon with the remaining 3 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil until roughly chopped. Add the scallions and pulse a few times more—keeping some texture is key for a good bite. Divide the mixture into 6 mounds and shape into 3/4-inch-thick patties, each about 3 1/2 inches wide. Broil until cooked through and lightly golden on top, 6–8 minutes.

Assembling the Burgers

Place the salmon burgers on toasted buns, brush with the sesame-soy glaze, and top with a generous mound of cucumber salad. Serve the remaining glaze on the side for dipping or extra drizzle.

Tips for Perfect Salmon Burgers

Fresh vs. Frozen Salmon: Fresh salmon delivers the best flavor and texture; however, high-quality frozen salmon (thawed and patted dry) can also work.
Texture Matters: Pulse the salmon just enough to combine—don’t overprocess, or your burger may turn pasty.
Broiling for Convenience: Broiling is a hands-off cooking method that quickly cooks the burgers and reduces oil splatter compared to pan-frying.
Cucumber Salad Prep: The cucumber salad can be made ahead to save time; just toss before serving.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This recipe is versatile. Consider these easy swaps and sides:

Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free buns.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the glaze for extra heat.
Sauce Swaps: Try a quick wasabi mayo or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
Side Suggestions: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes, Asian slaw, or sesame noodles.

Nutritional Information (Estimated Per Serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbohydrates	Fat
380	28g	32g	16g

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The salmon provides a rich, savory base, while the glaze adds sweet, salty, and umami notes. The cucumber salad is crisp, tangy, and slightly spicy, cutting through the richness of the burger. Together, they create a burger that feels both indulgent and refreshing—a perfect meal for warm days or whenever you want a lighter, satisfying dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

This recipe is designed for fresh salmon for optimal texture and flavor. Canned salmon may result in a denser, saltier patty, but in a pinch, you can substitute—just be sure to drain and gently flake the salmon, and skip the added salt in the recipe.

Can I grill the salmon burgers instead of broiling?

Yes! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just make sure your burgers are firm enough to handle the grill; you may want to add a little more breadcrumbs or chill them before cooking to hold their shape.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store cooked burgers and cucumber salad separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat burgers gently in a toaster oven or on the stove. The cucumber salad is best enjoyed cold, not reheated.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prep the glaze, salad, and salmon mixture in advance. Assemble and cook just before serving for the freshest taste.

Can I freeze the uncooked salmon patties?

Yes! Place the shaped uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Conclusion

These Salmon Burgers with Sesame-Soy Glaze offer a fresh, healthy, and utterly delicious twist on the classic burger. With a little prep, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home—no beef required. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just craving something new for dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb