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If you’re hunting for a delightful dish that strikes the perfect balance between fresh seafood and rich, creamy comfort, then you absolutely need to try the Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe. This recipe brings together tender, flavorful salmon formed into bite-sized balls, baked to golden perfection, and paired with a luscious avocado sauce that adds a refreshing yet indulgent twist. It’s a crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving it as a main course, appetizer, or party snack, and the combination of bright herbs, zesty lemon, and creamy avocado makes every bite a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s amazing about the ingredients in this recipe is how simple yet thoughtfully selected each one is — they come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and vibrancy without any fuss. Using fresh salmon, herbs, and creamy avocado ensures every element shines through beautifully.
- 1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets: The star ingredient offering tender, rich flavor and healthy omega-3s.
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs: They add the perfect binding texture and help the balls hold their shape while baking.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to keep everything together without overpowering the taste.
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs that brighten the salmon with herbal notes and a pop of green.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds zesty acidity to balance richness and lift the entire dish.
- 1 ripe avocado: The foundation of the creamy sauce, giving silky smoothness and subtle buttery flavor.
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Gives the sauce tang and body while keeping it light and healthy.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Provides a gentle savory depth that enhances both salmon and sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors.
How to Make Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it reaches the ideal temperature by the time you assemble your salmon balls, allowing them to cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden exterior.
Step 2: Flake the Salmon
Take your fresh skinless salmon fillets and gently flake them into small pieces in a large mixing bowl. Breaking them up this way makes the salmon easier to combine with the other ingredients while keeping a nice, tender texture in every bite.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together
Add the plain breadcrumbs, egg, chopped fresh dill or parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the salmon. Mix everything thoroughly but gently — you want the mix to hold together without becoming a dense paste. This blend balances flavor, moisture, and structure perfectly.
Step 4: Form the Salmon Balls
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls roughly 1 inch in diameter. Make sure they’re reasonably uniform so they cook evenly. Place these little gems onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray in the oven and bake your salmon balls for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color on the outside, which signals they’re cooked through and ready to enjoy. The aroma filling your kitchen here is pure magic.
Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the salmon balls bake, blend together one ripe avocado, plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the sauce is silky smooth. This creamy avocado sauce perfectly complements the baked salmon balls with its fresh, tangy richness, offering a cool counterpoint to the warm bites.
Step 7: Serve Warm with the Sauce
Serve your golden salmon balls warm alongside the creamy avocado sauce. Whether you dip each bite or drizzle the sauce over the top, the pairing is absolutely irresistible and guaranteed to become a fast favorite.
How to Serve Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add bursts of color, sprinkle finely chopped fresh dill or parsley over the salmon balls just before serving. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or a wedge of lemon on the side invites picky eaters and seasoned foodies alike to customize their dish as they like.
Side Dishes
These salmon balls pair beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even a fluffy quinoa pilaf. The creamy avocado sauce is versatile enough to complement many textures, so consider serving with a side of garlic-roasted potatoes or steamed asparagus to round out the meal deliciously.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, thread the salmon balls onto cocktail skewers and serve with individual dipping bowls of avocado sauce — perfect for parties or casual gatherings. You can also nestle them atop baby greens with a drizzle of the sauce for an elegant appetizer presentation that feels fancy but is easy to assemble.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), store the salmon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the creamy avocado sauce separate and fresh, ideally in a sealed container with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon balls for up to 2 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. The avocado sauce is best made fresh, so skip freezing it.
Reheating
Reheat salmon balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain their texture. Serve freshly blended avocado sauce on the side for the best flavors.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
While fresh salmon delivers the best texture and flavor, canned salmon can work in a pinch. Just be mindful that it may alter the consistency, so adjust the amount of breadcrumbs to help the mixture bind properly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These salmon balls reheat well and keep their flavor over a few days in the fridge. Preparing the sauce fresh before serving helps maintain the avocado’s creamy brightness.
Can I bake the salmon balls instead of frying them?
This recipe actually calls for baking, which is a healthier alternative that still yields a lovely golden crust without extra oil or fuss.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce?
If you prefer dairy-free options, try substituting the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a smooth nut-based yogurt. The avocado’s creaminess ensures the sauce stays rich and velvety.
How can I make the salmon balls spicier?
To add some heat, mix in finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the salmon mixture. You can also spice up the avocado sauce with a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe — it’s comfort food elevated with fresh, wholesome ingredients and a flavor profile that excites your taste buds. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become one of your go-to dishes for busy weeknights or entertaining friends. You’ll love how effortlessly impressive and delicious it is!
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Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and healthy salmon balls baked to perfection and served with a smooth and creamy avocado sauce. This recipe combines fresh salmon with herbs and breadcrumbs to create tender, flavorful bites perfect for a light meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Salmon Balls
- 1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon balls.
- Prepare the salmon: Flake the salmon fillets into small pieces in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even texture for the mixture.
- Mix ingredients: Add breadcrumbs, egg, chopped fresh dill or parsley, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the flaked salmon. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form balls: Shape the mixture into small 1-inch balls, then place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet to avoid sticking.
- Bake the salmon balls: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Make the avocado sauce: While the salmon balls bake, blend the ripe avocado, plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the warm salmon balls alongside or topped with the creamy avocado sauce for a fresh and flavorful dish.
Notes
- Use fresh or previously frozen salmon fillets, skinless for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste before forming the balls.
- The avocado sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavors.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute plain gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Make sure to use ripe avocado for a creamy, smooth sauce texture.
