Seafood Smash Burgers

A Summer Delight in the Pacific Northwest

It’s not summer in the Pacific Northwest without the aroma of grilled salmon wafting through the backyard. This season, we’re taking this staple to new heights with the Wild Alaskan Coho Salmon Smash Burger—a lighter, innovative twist on the classic burger that might just become your new favorite summer dish!

Wild Coho salmon from the pristine waters of Alaska is renowned for its vibrant flavor and tender texture, making it the perfect centerpiece for a burger. Unlike its beef counterpart, Coho salmon offers a leaner alternative packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it not only delicious but also beneficial for your health.

What Makes Wild Coho Salmon Special?
Sourced from the cold, clean waters of Alaska, wild Coho salmon is celebrated for its sustainability and exceptional quality. Fishing practices in Alaska are rigorously managed to maintain the natural fish populations, ensuring that each catch contributes to an environmentally friendly and sustainable food source. Choosing wild Coho for your smash burgers means you’re supporting sustainable fishing practices while indulging in some of the best salmon available.

Crafting the Perfect Salmon Smash Burger:

Creating a salmon smash burger is an art that begins with high-quality ground Coho salmon. The key to a perfect patty is minimal handling to keep the texture light and tender. Season the salmon gently with salt, pepper, and a few spices to enhance its natural flavors without overpowering them.

Once your patties are formed, it’s time for the smashing technique. Preheat your griddle or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil it. Place the patties on the hot surface, then firmly press them down to create a wide, thin patty. This method ensures a beautifully caramelized crust while keeping the interior moist and juicy.

The Toppings and Buns:

To complement the natural flavors of the Coho salmon, opt for toppings that add a fresh, zesty character to your burger. Crisp lettuce, a slice of ripe tomato, and sliced red onion make perfect accompaniments. For the buns, choose something soft yet sturdy enough to hold up to the juiciness of the burger—brioche or a whole-grain bun offers a delicious contrast in textures.

Serving Your Smash Burgers:

Salmon smash burgers are versatile and can be served in various settings, from casual backyard barbecues to chic summer soirées. Pair them with a light, crisp white wine or a citrusy craft beer for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and satisfying meal, these burgers are sure to impress.

Time to Fire Up the Grill! 

This summer, embrace Wild Alaskan Coho Salmon Smash Burger as your go-to dish.Perfect for health enthusiasts and foodies alike, this recipe is a testament to how sustainable, health-conscious choices can lead to incredibly flavorful and satisfying meals. So fire up the grill and get ready to transform your summer eating experiences with a fresh take on a classic!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes 

Ingredients:

Salmon Patties:
  • 1 lb Wild Alaska Ground Salmon
  • 2 Tbsp All Purpose Seasoning
  • 1 egg
  • Salt & pepper
Burgers:
  • Brioche buns
  • 1 sweet onion, sliced
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • Sliced tomato
  • Leaf lettuce, washed
  • Spicy sauce 

Directions:
  1. Thaw coho salmon meat.
  2. Add the salmon meat to a bowl and season with your favorite all purpose seasoning. Whisk one egg and mix it into salmon until combined. Form into 8, 2 ounce balls.
  3. Before cooking the patties, caramelize the onion by chopping it and sautéing in butter until golden and soft.
  4. Heat butter in a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
  5. Place a ball of salmon meat on the hot griddle. Place a piece of parchment paper on top. Use a sturdy spatula (or a burger press, if you have one) to firmly smash the ball into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick. 
  6. Cook the patties for 1-2 minutes until the edges are crispy and browned. Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of cheese on one and caramelized onions on the other. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked to your desired doneness.
  7. Toast the burger buns on the griddle for a few seconds. Place two cooked patties on the bottom bun, add your desired toppings, and then top with the other half of the bun.
  8. Serve the smash burgers hot with your favorite sides, like fries or a salad.
  9. Enjoy!

    For more seafood recipes and to stock your freezer with wild seafood from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, visit premiercatch.com!