Salmon Burgers with Mango Salad

I've made a few versions of salmon burgers before but this by far is my favorite.  Topping these juicy, delicate burgers with avocado, mango and cucumber adds a light and crunchy pop of flavor.  The mango's sweetness and the creaminess of the avocado pair perfectly with salmon. You can pop this between two buns or on top of half an English muffin for a more well rounded meal but if you are looking for a lighter dish enjoy this one as is or on top of a bed of lettuce.  As the temperatures heat up, these salmon burgers will definitely be my go-to instead of the tired ol' veggie burger.
See you all back here soon!

Salmon Burgers with Mango Salad
Recipe by Ali Caron, RD
Serves 4

Ingredients: 
Salmon Burgers:
10 oz fresh salmon
1 shallot, minced
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1 egg white
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dill
salt and pepper to taste

Mango Salad:
1/2 cup diced cucumber
1/2 cup diced mango
1/2 cup diced avocado
splash of lime juice
1/4 tsp dried parsley
pinch of salt

Directions:
Cut salmon into 1-2 inch cubes.  Add salmon and all other burger ingredients into food processor.  Grind until fully combined.  Divide mixture evenly into four balls and form patties with hands.  Place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set.
Meanwhile, combine all ingredients for mango salad in a small bowl and mix well. Set aside.
Place patties on greased pan or surface over medium heat.   Cook on each side for 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown.  Serve topped with mango salad.

Nutrition Facts: (1 Burger with 1/3 cup Mango Salad) 236 Calories, 12.5g Fat, 13g Carbohydrate, 19g Protein, 2.5g Fiber, 193mg Sodium, 445mg Potassium

Cocoa-nut Energy Bites

Okay guys, this recipe was really fun to make, if you don't mind a little mess!  These Cocoa-nut Energy Bites are my take on Medjool Date Power Balls from NaturalDelights.com.  It's almost impossible to believe healthy these bites are because they taste just like No-Bake cookies.
I had never even tried a date before making this recipe and I was pleasantly surprised.  They are sweet and gooey and taste almost like caramels (YUM). Dates are little powerhouses that boast high numbers of potassium, fiber and iron.  You can't go wrong with this recipe, but feel free to play around with other ingredients!  I think this would be especially fun to make with children, too.
I bet you can't eat just one, although they are surprisingly filling and make a perfect snack.
See you back here soon!

Cocoa-nut Energy Bites
Recipe by Ali Caron, RD
Makes about 12 balls (6 servings)

Ingredients:
1 cup sliced almonds
16 Medjool dates, pitted
2 tablespoons water
1/2 cup organic shredded coconut
1 tablespoon (low sodium) peanut butter
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions: 
Place 1 cup almonds in food processor and pulse until ground.  Place almonds in a medium bowl.
Place pitted dates in food processor along with a few tablespoons water and blend until smooth.  Add to bowl.  Add coconut, peanut butter, cocoa powder and cinnamon to bowl.  Combine well with fork (or use your hands).
Scoop about 2 tablespoons into your hands and roll to form a ball.  Place on parchment lines baking sheet and place in refrigerator for about 30 minutes.  Store in air-tight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts: (2 Bites) 138 Calories, 12g Fat, 7g Carbohydrates, 5g Protein, 4g Fiber, 9mg Sodium, 209mg Potassium