Quick Fish Finger Burgers
Looking for a fast, family-friendly meal that delivers plenty of crunch and flavour? These Quick Fish Finger Burgers transform a freezer staple into a satisfying burger packed with crispy fish fingers, creamy wasabi tartare, and a refreshing watercress and nashi pear salad.
Perfect for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or easy entertaining, this recipe combines convenience with fresh ingredients to create a burger that’s far more exciting than your average takeaway option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Crispy and satisfying
- Family-friendly
- Easy to customise
- Great for busy weeknights
- Fresh, crunchy salad topping
- Creamy homemade wasabi tartare
Ingredients
For the Burgers
- 16 frozen fish fingers
- Vegetable oil, for shallow frying
- 4 burger buns, split and lightly toasted
For the Salad
- 2 cups watercress sprigs
- 2 nashi pears, cored and thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For the Wasabi Tartare
- 125g (1/2 cup) Kewpie mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp capers, drained and finely chopped
- 2 tsp wasabi paste
Why Fish Finger Burgers Work So Well
Fish fingers are already coated and perfectly portioned, making them ideal for quick burger recipes.
Combined with:
- Soft toasted buns
- Fresh salad
- Creamy tartare sauce
- Sweet and crunchy pear
They create a delicious balance of flavours and textures.
How to Make Quick Fish Finger Burgers
Step 1: Cook the Fish Fingers
Microwave the fish fingers briefly to thaw.
Heat oil in a frying pan and cook the fish fingers until:
- Golden brown
- Crispy
- Heated through
Drain on paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Wasabi Tartare
Combine:
- Kewpie mayonnaise
- Chopped capers
- Wasabi paste
Mix well and season to taste.
The result is a creamy, tangy sauce with a gentle kick.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad
Place the watercress and sliced nashi pear into a bowl.
Whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Rice wine vinegar
- Toasted sesame seeds
Pour over the salad and toss gently.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
Spread the wasabi tartare over both halves of each toasted bun.
Layer with:
- Crispy fish fingers
- Watercress and pear salad
Serve immediately.
What Makes Nashi Pear Perfect for Burgers?
Nashi pears add:
- Natural sweetness
- Crunchy texture
- Refreshing flavour
- Light acidity
They balance the richness of the fish and mayonnaise beautifully.
Tips for the Best Fish Finger Burgers
Use an Air Fryer
For a lighter version, cook fish fingers in an air fryer until crisp and golden.
Toast the Buns
Lightly toasted buns help prevent sogginess and improve texture.
Adjust the Wasabi
Prefer a milder flavour? Reduce the wasabi slightly.
Like extra heat? Add more to taste.
Serve Immediately
These burgers are best enjoyed while the fish is hot and crispy.
Variations
Swap the Protein
Try using:
- Crumbed chicken fillets
- Grilled fish
- Hot smoked salmon
- Cooked prawns
Add Extra Crunch
Include:
- Shredded cabbage
- Pickled cucumber
- Crispy lettuce
- Thinly sliced radish
Change the Sauce
Alternative options include:
- Traditional tartare sauce
- Sriracha mayo
- Garlic aioli
- Sweet chilli mayo
Add Cheese
A slice of Swiss or cheddar cheese works surprisingly well with fish burgers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Sweet potato fries
- Wedges
- Garden salad
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
For a lighter meal, pair with extra watercress salad.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store leftover fish fingers separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating
Reheat in:
- Air fryer
- Oven
- Frying pan
Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain crispness.
Freezing
Cooked fish fingers can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 813
- Protein: 22.5g
- Fat: 49.8g
- Carbohydrates: 66.4g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade fish fillets instead of fish fingers?
Yes. Crumbed or grilled fish fillets work perfectly.
What does wasabi tartare taste like?
It combines creamy mayonnaise, tangy capers and a mild horseradish-style heat from the wasabi.
Can I make these ahead of time?
The tartare and salad can be prepared ahead. Cook the fish fingers just before serving.
Can I use another type of pear?
Yes. Packham, Corella or Beurre Bosc pears can be substituted.
Final Thoughts
These Quick Fish Finger Burgers are proof that simple ingredients can create a meal packed with flavour. The combination of crispy fish fingers, spicy wasabi tartare and refreshing pear salad delivers a delicious twist on a classic burger that’s perfect for both kids and adults.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch, these burgers are guaranteed to become a household favourite.