Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

If you love a good slider (who doesn’t?), then you’re in for a treat with these Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw! Imagine golden-brown, crispy salmon fillets tucked into soft, pillowy buns, topped with a zesty, lemony arugula slaw that brings a fresh, peppery bite. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures—the richness of the salmon, the crunch of the slaw, and the softness of the bun coming together in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, craving something light yet filling, or simply want to impress with something fresh and exciting, these sliders are your go-to. Trust me, they’re bound to become a favorite!

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

Here’s why these sliders are a game-changer:

• Fresh and Flavorful: The crispy salmon and the bright, zesty slaw are a match made in heaven. The flavors are light, vibrant, and completely crave-worthy.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: You don’t need to be a chef to pull these off. These sliders have a sophisticated taste but are so easy to make.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a party or making them for a quick weeknight meal, these sliders fit every occasion.
• Light but Filling: The crispy salmon gives you that savory satisfaction, while the slaw adds a refreshing crunch, making them hearty without being heavy.
• Customizable: You can tweak the toppings to suit your tastes—add a little spicy mayo for some kick, or swap arugula for spinach if you prefer!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these mouthwatering crispy salmon sliders with a tangy slaw:

For the Salmon Sliders:

• Fresh Salmon Fillets: Choose skinless fillets for a crispy, tender texture. When fried, salmon takes on a crispy exterior while staying moist inside.
• Breadcrumbs: For coating the salmon, making it perfectly crispy.
• Egg: Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the salmon fillets for that crispy, golden crust.
• Garlic Powder: For an added layer of savory flavor in the crispy coating.
• Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color to the salmon crust.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the salmon fillets to perfection.
• Olive Oil: For pan-frying the salmon and achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
• Mini Slider Buns: Soft and pillowy buns that will cradle the crispy salmon and creamy slaw.

For the Lemon Arugula Slaw:

• Arugula: Fresh, peppery arugula gives the slaw a nice bite that pairs beautifully with the rich salmon.
• Shredded Carrots: Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch to the slaw.
• Red Cabbage: Thinly shredded cabbage adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring brightness and a zesty tang to the slaw.
• Mayonnaise: For creaminess and to help bring the slaw ingredients together.
• Honey: A little touch of sweetness to balance the tangy lemon.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to create these crispy salmon sliders:

1. Prepare the Salmon

Start by cutting your salmon fillets into small, slider-sized portions. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

2. Coat and Fry the Salmon

Dip each piece of salmon into the egg mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, fry the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

3. Make the Lemon Arugula Slaw

In a large bowl, toss the arugula, shredded carrots, and shredded red cabbage together. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss everything until the slaw is well coated.

4. Assemble the Sliders

To assemble, slice your mini slider buns in half. Place a piece of crispy salmon on the bottom half of each bun, then top with a generous spoonful of lemon arugula slaw. Place the top bun on and press gently to secure.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy salmon sliders immediately while they’re warm, with a side of extra slaw or crispy fries if you like. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful bites!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

How to Serve Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw

These sliders are perfect as a main dish or an appetizer. Here are some ideas for what to pair them with:

• Crispy French Fries: A classic side dish that complements the sliders perfectly. You can even sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top for extra flavor.
• Sweet Potato Fries: For a healthier twist with a touch of sweetness.
• Pickled Vegetables: Serve with some tangy pickled cucumbers or pickled onions to add a refreshing bite that contrasts with the richness of the salmon.
• Chilled White Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay would be the perfect drink to enjoy with these sliders.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some Sriracha or hot sauce to the mayonnaise for a spicy twist on the slaw.
• Meal Prep: These sliders can be prepped ahead of time! You can fry the salmon earlier in the day and store it in the fridge. Assemble the sliders right before serving for the freshest taste.
• Different Toppings: Try adding avocado slices or a dollop of tartar sauce for an even more indulgent experience.
• Slaw Variations: Feel free to add in some thinly sliced apples or red onions for extra crunch and sweetness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Just make sure to thaw the fillets completely before preparing them to ensure they cook evenly.

Q2: Can I bake the salmon instead of frying it?
A2: Absolutely! For a lighter option, bake the salmon at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and crispy.

Q3: Can I make the slaw in advance?
A3: Yes! You can make the slaw a few hours ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to toss it again before serving to refresh the flavors.

Q4: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A4: Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground almonds for a nutty crunch!

Q5: Can I make these sliders into a larger sandwich?
A5: Definitely! Use regular sandwich buns and stack the crispy salmon and slaw high for a delicious, hearty sandwich.

Conclusion

These Crispy Salmon Sliders with Lemon Arugula Slaw are a fresh, exciting take on classic sliders. With crispy salmon, a tangy lemony slaw, and a soft bun to hold it all together, each bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving them at a casual get-together or enjoying them for a light, satisfying meal, these sliders are sure to become a favorite. So go ahead—treat yourself to these crispy, flavorful bites that are as fun to make as they are to eat!

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