Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Delicious and versatile, salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce are bound to impress your family and friends. This recipe is a delightful blend of fresh salmon, bright herbs, and a perfectly tangy sauce that elevates any meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, preparing a healthy weeknight dish, or planning a summer party, these salmon balls are sure to become a favorite. The combination of crispy golden bites paired with the creamy, zesty sauce is what makes this recipe truly special.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe shines for several reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want to serve something nutritious. Second, it’s budget-friendly, especially if you have salmon on hand or can catch a good sale. Plus, kids often approve of salmon balls because they resemble a fun finger food, making them perfect for family meals or entertaining.
"My whole family gobbled these up! They’re not only delicious but so easy to make!"
How this recipe comes together
Making salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce is a straightforward process. You’ll start by mixing fresh salmon with simple ingredients to create flavorful and hearty balls. After forming and baking the salmon balls, whip up a quick avocado sauce that blends perfectly with the warm bites. The steps are simple and will have you ready to serve in no time!
Gather these items
To make these savory salmon balls, you’ll need:
- 1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to play with the herbs; dill and parsley work wonderfully, but you can also experiment with tarragon or cilantro for a different twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, flake the salmon into small pieces.
- Add breadcrumbs, egg, chopped herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon balls are golden brown.
- While they bake, prepare the creamy avocado sauce by blending the avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve the salmon balls warm with a generous drizzle of creamy avocado sauce.
Best ways to enjoy it
These salmon balls are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm as an appetizer or alongside a crisp green salad for a filling meal. You can also make them party-friendly by setting up a dip station with the creamy avocado sauce and some veggie sticks or pita chips. For a heartier option, serve them with quinoa or brown rice and a side of steamed vegetables.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, place any uneaten salmon balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for about 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the cooked salmon balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they should be good for up to three months. Just make sure to give them a thorough reheat once thawed.
Helpful cooking tips
- If you want to save time, consider using pre-cooked or leftover salmon.
- For a crispier exterior, you might briefly pan-sear the salmon balls in a bit of olive oil before baking.
- Make sure your salmon is fresh – quality is key to flavor!
Creative twists
Feel free to mix things up with this recipe! For a spicy kick, try adding some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture. You can also swap the Greek yogurt with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for dietary needs. Thinking of something different? Add some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese to the mix for a Mediterranean flair!
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is generally around 15 minutes, with baking time added for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, canned salmon can work; just be sure to drain it well and check for bones. Canned salmon will also cut your prep time drastically.
How should I season the salmon balls?
The recipe provides a basic seasoning, but feel free to customize it with additional spices like paprika, onion powder, or cayenne for more flavor.
These salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce are not just a feast for the taste buds; they also come together effortlessly and can be enjoyed in various ways. Give them a try, and I guarantee they’ll become a recipe you return to again and again!
Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients
For the Salmon Balls
- 1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets Make sure the salmon is fresh for the best flavor.
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped Feel free to experiment with herbs.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt Can swap with sour cream or dairy-free yogurt.
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp lemon juice Adds a tangy flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, flake the salmon into small pieces.
- Add breadcrumbs, egg, chopped herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon balls are golden brown.
Sauce Preparation
- While they bake, prepare the creamy avocado sauce by blending the avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Serving
- Serve the salmon balls warm with a generous drizzle of creamy avocado sauce.
