Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

Introduction

Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw are a modern take on the classic slider, offering a fresh and flavorful combination of crispy salmon and a zesty, peppery slaw. Each slider is packed with a golden, crispy salmon fillet, perfectly complemented by a tangy lemon arugula slaw that adds a delightful crunch and brightness to the dish. The contrast between the savory richness of the salmon and the refreshing, slightly spicy slaw creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a casual gathering, a weeknight dinner, or even a special occasion, these sliders will be a hit.

The first time I made these Crispy Salmon Sliders, I was blown away by how easy and fun they were to make. The salmon cooked up perfectly crisp on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. As the sliders came together with the fresh, lemony slaw, the smell in my kitchen was mouthwatering, and I couldn’t wait to taste them. The combination of the warm salmon and the cool, tangy slaw was the perfect balance of flavors that I knew I’d be craving again.

What I love most about these sliders is their versatility. They can be served as an appetizer or a main course, depending on the occasion. The lemon arugula slaw is easy to customize—add a little spice with jalapeños, swap in different greens like kale, or even drizzle with a creamy dressing. These Crispy Salmon Sliders are sure to impress your guests and will quickly become a favorite on your meal rotation.

Perfect for:

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• Casual dinners
• Lunches or brunches
• Game day snacks
• Summer cookouts
• Seafood lovers

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw Recipe

Here’s why Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw will quickly become one of your favorites:

• Crispy and Tender Salmon: The salmon is perfectly crispy on the outside while staying moist and tender on the inside, creating a delicious contrast in texture.
• Lemon Arugula Slaw: The bright, zesty lemony slaw with peppery arugula adds a refreshing crunch, perfectly complementing the rich salmon.
• Customizable: These sliders can be made with different types of fish or topped with a variety of sauces or garnishes to suit your preferences.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: The recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with protein, omega-3s, and fresh vegetables, these sliders offer a healthy yet indulgent meal option.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (8 sliders)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw:

For the Salmon Sliders:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 4 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 8 small slider buns
• Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

For the Lemon Arugula Slaw:

• 2 cups fresh arugula, roughly chopped
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Salmon: Rich in healthy fats and protein, salmon is the star of the dish, providing a satisfying, flavorful base for the sliders.
• Arugula: Arugula adds a peppery, fresh element to the slaw that brightens the overall flavor of the dish.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brings a refreshing tartness to the slaw, perfectly balancing the richness of the salmon.
• Slider Buns: Soft, mini buns hold everything together and create the perfect bite-sized serving for a satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw:

Prepare the Lemon Arugula Slaw:

1. Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the arugula, shredded cabbage, and shredded carrots.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the salmon.

Prepare the Salmon:

4. Season the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Brush each fillet with a thin layer of Dijon mustard for added flavor.
5. Cook the Salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if they have skin, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Cook until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Flake the Salmon: Once the salmon is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Use a fork to flake the salmon into large chunks.

Assemble the Sliders:

7. Toast the Buns: While the salmon rests, lightly toast the slider buns in the skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
8. Build the Sliders: Place a generous spoonful of the lemon arugula slaw onto the bottom half of each toasted slider bun. Top with flaked salmon and the top half of the bun.

Serve:

9. Serve Immediately: Garnish with extra lemon wedges if desired and serve the sliders while they’re still warm.

How to Serve Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw are perfect for serving in a variety of ways:

• For a Casual Meal: Serve as sliders for a fun, bite-sized meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
• As a Sandwich: For a heartier option, serve the salmon and slaw on larger buns or brioche for a filling sandwich.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• On a Platter: Serve the sliders on a platter for a great appetizer or snack at a party or barbecue.
• With Fries or Chips: Serve with a side of crispy fries or kettle chips for an extra satisfying meal.

Additional Tips for Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

Here are some tips to ensure your Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will yield the best flavor and texture for your sliders.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. A slightly pink center is perfectly fine, as it will continue to cook slightly after removing from the heat.
• Customize the Slaw: Feel free to add other ingredients to the slaw, such as radishes, cucumbers, or even a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
• Toast the Buns: Toasting the buns adds a nice crisp texture that holds up well against the moist salmon and slaw.
• Make the Slaw Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the slaw the day before and refrigerate it to save time.

Recipe Variations for Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw:

• Avocado Salmon Sliders: Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess and a boost of healthy fats.
• Spicy Salmon Sliders: Add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños to the slaw for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Slaw: Mix fresh dill or parsley into the slaw for added flavor.
• Mango Salsa Salmon Sliders: Top the salmon with a sweet and tangy mango salsa for a tropical twist.
• Sweet Chili Salmon Sliders: Use sweet chili sauce in place of Dijon mustard for a sweet and spicy flavor.
• BBQ Salmon Sliders: Drizzle BBQ sauce over the salmon before cooking for a smoky, sweet flavor.
• Crispy Skin-on Salmon Sliders: Leave the skin on the salmon fillets for added crispy texture and flavor.
• Coconut-Crusted Salmon Sliders: Coat the salmon fillets in shredded coconut before frying for a tropical crunch.
• Lemon Basil Slaw: Replace arugula with basil for a different herbal note in the slaw.
• Grilled Salmon Sliders: Grill the salmon instead of pan-frying for a smoky, charred flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy these sliders fresh, you can freeze the cooked salmon fillets. Store the salmon in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and assemble the sliders.
• Storage: Store leftover salmon fillets and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The slaw will stay fresh for up to 2 days, and the salmon for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment for Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw easier:

• Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet is perfect for cooking the salmon fillets evenly without sticking.
• Fork: For easily flaking the salmon after it’s cooked.
• Small Bowl: To mix the slaw dressing.
• Tongs or Spatula: For flipping the salmon fillets while cooking.
• Grater: If you’re shredding the carrots and cabbage by hand, a box grater works perfectly.

FAQ Section for Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

1. Can I use canned salmon for these sliders?
   While fresh salmon is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned salmon if needed. Just be sure to drain and flake it well before using.
2. Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
   Yes, the slaw can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good toss before serving.
3. How can I make these sliders gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps instead of regular buns for a gluten-free version.
4. Can I bake the salmon instead of frying it?
   Yes, you can bake the salmon fillets at 375°F for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through for a healthier alternative.
5. Can I make these sliders with another type of fish?
   Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other firm white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia.

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Conclusion

Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw are the perfect blend of crispy, savory salmon and refreshing, tangy slaw, all sandwiched between soft, toasted buns. This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making it ideal for weeknight meals, casual get-togethers, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fresh twist on classic sliders, these crispy salmon sliders are sure to be a hit!

I’d love to see how your sliders turn out! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram with your creations, and share your tips or any unique twists you added. Happy cooking!