Description
These Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a delicious and healthy appetizer or main dish, combining tender, baked salmon balls seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, served alongside a smooth, tangy avocado sauce that adds a perfect creamy complement. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is great for entertaining or a wholesome family meal.
Ingredients
Salmon Balls
- 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the salmon balls evenly and quickly.
- Prepare Salmon: Place fresh salmon fillet pieces into a food processor and pulse carefully until finely chopped but not pureed, maintaining some texture for the balls.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon with whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg, freshly chopped dill, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Form Balls: With clean hands, shape the mixture into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place these balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake: Bake the salmon balls in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown on the outside and are cooked through inside.
- Prepare Sauce: While the salmon balls bake, mash the ripe avocado in a bowl. Mix in Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Remove the baked salmon balls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly so they hold shape while serving.
- Plate: Arrange the warm salmon balls on a serving platter and drizzle or serve alongside the creamy avocado sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for added color and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- If you do not have a food processor, finely chop the salmon by hand using a sharp knife.
- The avocado sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 1 day; if doing so, add lime juice just before serving to maintain freshness.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the salmon balls for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Ensure salmon is fresh or previously frozen and properly thawed to ensure safety and optimal taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
