Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a seafood dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing, you’ll absolutely adore the Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe. Imagine tender, perfectly crisped salmon patties nestled in soft slider buns, topped with a vibrant lemony arugula slaw that brings brightness and a delightful crunch to every bite. This recipe delivers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for casual gatherings with friends. Ready to dive into an exciting flavor journey? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting those irresistible Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe. From the flaky salmon to the zingy lemon dressing, the components come together to create a dish that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.

• Fresh salmon fillets (1 lb): The star of the dish, providing moist, flaky richness and omega-3 goodness.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): Add crunch and structure to the salmon patties for that perfect crispy crust.
• Mayonnaise (1/4 cup + 2 tbsp for slaw): Gives creaminess and moisture to both patties and slaw.
• Dijon mustard (1 tbsp + 1 tsp for slaw): Introduces subtle tang and depth to the flavor profile.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp + 1 tbsp for slaw): Keeps the dish fresh and bright with citrusy zestiness.
• Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): Adds a mellow garlic note without overpowering the delicate salmon.
• Smoked paprika (1/4 tsp): For a faint smokiness that elevates the fish patties beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Crucial for balancing all those vibrant flavors.
• Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, optional): Brings a herbaceous hint and vibrant green color.
• Egg (1, beaten): Acts as a binder to hold the patties together perfectly.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): For frying patties to golden, crisp perfection.
• Fresh arugula (2 cups): Peppery greens that create a lively contrast in the slaw.
• Shredded cabbage (1/2 cup): Adds crunch and a touch of sweetness, especially if you use purple cabbage.
• Small carrot (1, julienned or shredded): Brightens the slaw with color and natural sweetness.
• Slider buns (4): Soft and petite buns that cradle the sliders without overwhelming them.
• Lemon wedges (optional): For garnishing and an extra squeeze of citrus magic.

How to Make Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Patties

Begin by placing the fresh salmon fillets into your food processor, pulsing them just until coarsely chopped. You want a chunky texture here, so avoid over-processing. This ensures your salmon patties have that perfect flaky bite and don’t turn into fish paste.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Transfer the chopped salmon to a mixing bowl. Add the panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley if you’re using it. Give everything a good stir to combine evenly.

Step 3: Bind the Patties

Pour in the beaten egg and mix thoroughly until the mixture sticks together nicely. If the blend feels too wet to handle, sprinkle in a bit more panko breadcrumbs until it holds form well.

Step 4: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions, shaping each into a patty about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Keep them evenly sized so they cook uniformly and fit perfectly on your slider buns.

Step 5: Cook the Salmon Patties

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Carefully place the patties into the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until they develop a crispy, golden-brown crust. Flip gently to keep them intact and cook through.

Step 6: Drain the Patties

Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and set them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This step keeps the sliders delightfully crisp without being greasy.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Arugula Slaw

In a medium bowl, toss together the arugula, shredded cabbage, and shredded carrot. In a smaller bowl, whisk mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Dress the Slaw

Pour the lemon dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly. This slaw is where the fresh, peppery, and zesty flavors make the sliders truly pop.

Step 9: Assemble the Sliders

Lightly toast your slider buns for a bit of crunch and warmth, if you like. Spread a touch of mayonnaise or your preferred spread on the bottom halves. Layer each bun with a crispy salmon patty, then top generously with the lemon arugula slaw.

Step 10: Serve with a Citrus Kick

Place the top bun on each slider and add lemon wedges on the side for the perfect cheek-tingling finish just before serving.

How to Serve Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe

Garnishes

To really enhance your Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe, don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish. Fresh lemon wedges add a fresh, tangy dimension when squeezed over the sliders right before eating, brightening up every bite. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika for visual appeal and a hint of extra flavor.

Side Dishes

These sliders pair wonderfully with light, summery sides like sweet potato fries, a crisp cucumber salad, or even a refreshing fruit salsa. If you want to keep things classic, homemade coleslaw or a handful of kettle-cooked chips are delicious companions. The key is to balance the zest and creaminess of the sliders with something with either crunch or coolness.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by serving the salmon sliders on a wooden board or a slate tray, garnished with microgreens or extra lemon slices. Wrapping each slider partially in parchment paper tied with twine can add a rustic, casual charm if you’re entertaining. For a festive touch, consider tiny skewers or cocktail picks piercing the sliders to keep everything neat and easy to grab.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which can be rare with this recipe), store the salmon patties and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the buns from becoming soggy and keeps everything tasting fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked salmon patties by placing them on a parchment-lined tray, freezing until firm, and then transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the slaw or buns as their texture will not hold up upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat patties gently in a skillet over low-medium heat or in an oven until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact. Toast fresh buns before assembling for the best slider experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen salmon fillets if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture and pat the salmon dry before pulsing to avoid a soggy mixture.

What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers work well. They provide the crunch and binding necessary for those crispy patties.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Just substitute mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative and ensure your bread is dairy-free. The recipe is naturally low in dairy, so swaps are simple.

How spicy are the salmon sliders?

This Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe is mild with a gentle kick from smoked paprika and Dijon mustard. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more paprika or incorporating some finely chopped jalapeño for heat lovers.

Can I prepare the salmon patties ahead of time?

Definitely! You can mix and form the patties up to 24 hours ahead, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Just cook them fresh to get that wonderful crispy exterior when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about biting into a Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe that combines freshness, crispness, and a burst of flavor all at once. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or surprising guests, this recipe promises satisfying, finger-licking deliciousness. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and let these sliders brighten up your table!

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