Salmon burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Salmon is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice. Trident salmon burgers in particular provide an extra boost of flavor from the seasoning blend. Cooking trident salmon burgers properly ensures they turn out moist and tender on the inside with a nice sear on the outside. Read on to learn everything you need to know about cooking up the perfect trident salmon burger!
What is trident salmon?
Trident salmon refers to salmon caught in the cold waters of the North Pacific near Alaska. Trident Seafoods is one of the largest seafood producers in North America and is known for their line of seasoned salmon burgers. Their trident salmon burgers contain wild Alaskan salmon blended with peppers, spices, brown sugar, and other natural flavors. This seasoned blend gives the burgers a delicious robust flavor.
What ingredients do you need?
To cook trident salmon burgers just like the pros, you will need:
- Trident salmon burger patties (thawed if frozen)
- Burger buns or bread of your choice
- Lettuce, tomato, onion (optional burger toppings)
- Cheese slices (optional)
- Cooking oil or oil spray
- Salt and pepper
- Aluminum foil
Having the key ingredients lined up ahead of time makes the cooking process smooth and easy.
Should you thaw the salmon burger patties first?
If you purchased frozen trident salmon burgers, they will need to thaw before cooking. There are a couple of safe ways to thaw frozen salmon burgers:
- Place patties on a plate in the refrigerator overnight. Place the plate on a lower shelf to prevent raw meat juices from dripping on other foods.
- Defrost in the microwave using the “defrost” setting if available. Cook immediately after thawing.
You’ll know the patties are ready to cook when there are no more ice crystals present and they are pliable but firm to the touch.
Should you season the salmon burger patties?
One of the benefits of trident salmon burgers is they already contain a flavorful blend of seasonings. So you don’t need to season them further before cooking. Simply pat the patties dry with paper towel before cooking.
What is the best way to cook trident salmon burgers?
You can cook trident salmon burgers in a skillet/frying pan, on the grill, or even the air fryer. Here are cooking instructions for each method:
Stovetop Skillet/Frying Pan Method
Cooking the burgers in a hot skillet or frying pan on the stovetop allows you to cook them quickly while developing a nice sear.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp oil or spray skillet with oil.
- Place salmon burger patties in the hot skillet without crowding them too close together. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until nicely browned.
- Flip burgers carefully using a thin spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side until browned and cooked through.
- Optional: Add cheese slice on top during the last 1-2 minutes if desired. Cover skillet to help melt cheese faster.
- Transfer burgers to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm while you cook remaining patties.
- Serve burgers on buns with desired toppings.
Grilled Method
Grilling the burgers over direct high heat gives them nice grill marks and smoky barbecue flavor.
- Preheat grill to high heat. Oil grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Place salmon burger patties on grill and cook for 4-5 minutes with lid closed until browned with grill marks. Flip and grill another 4-5 minutes on second side.
- Optional: Top burgers with cheese during last 1-2 minutes if desired.
- Transfer burgers to a plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve on buns with desired toppings.
Air Fryer Method
Using an air fryer allows you to cook the burgers with little to no oil for a healthier version.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
- Place salmon burger patties in air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping patties halfway through. Cook until browned and center is opaque.
- Optional: Top with cheese during last 1-2 minutes if desired.
- Let burgers rest 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve on buns with desired toppings.
How can you tell when the salmon burgers are fully cooked?
Salmon burgers are cooked through when:
- The center is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- The internal temperature reaches 145°F on a food thermometer.
- The outside appears nicely browned.
Take care not to overcook the burgers, as salmon can become dry and tough if cooked too long. Remove them from the heat source once they are just opaque in the middle.
Should you add any toppings or garnishes?
Here are some delicious topping ideas for trident salmon burgers:
- Lettuce, tomato, and onion – classics!
- Tartar sauce, ketchup, or mustard
- Avocado slices
- Pickles
- Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions
- Swiss, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese
- Bacon
- Pineapple slice
- Fried egg
Get creative and customize your salmon burger with your favorite flavors and textures!
What sides go well with trident salmon burgers?
Here are some tasty sides to serve with trident salmon burgers:
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw
- Potato or pasta salad
- Corn on the cob
- Sauteed spinach or kale
- Rice pilaf
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli
- Caesar salad
- Fruit salad
Pairing the salmon burgers with fresh veggie sides adds extra nutrients. But don’t shy away from traditional burger sides like fries for the full experience!
Conclusion
Cooking up moist, flavorful trident salmon burgers at home is easy when you follow a few simple steps. Thaw frozen patties, cook over direct heat until browned and opaque in the center, and enhance with delicious toppings. Grilling, pan-frying, or air frying all produce delicious results. Salmon burgers make for a satisfying meal full of healthy fats and protein. Now that you know how to cook them like a pro, enjoy trident salmon burgers for lunch or dinner anytime!