Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce: A Healthy and Flavorful Delight

Enjoy a delightful twist on traditional meatballs with our Baked Salmon Meatballs paired with a creamy avocado sauce. These nutritious and flavorful meatballs are perfect for a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

For the Salmon Meatballs:

• 1 1/2 pounds fresh salmon, skin removed and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

• 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Water, as needed to thin the sauce

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Salmon Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, green onions, minced garlic, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs: Bake the salmon meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly golden on the outside.
5. Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.

How to Prepare

The secret to these delicious salmon meatballs is using fresh salmon and a combination of flavorful ingredients like Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs. Baking the meatballs keeps them moist and tender while adding a slight crisp on the outside. The creamy avocado sauce is a perfect complement, providing a rich and tangy contrast to the savory meatballs. For the best texture, ensure the avocados are ripe and the sauce is blended until smooth.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: About 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh? Yes, you can use canned salmon, but fresh salmon will provide a better texture and flavor. If using canned, make sure to drain it well and remove any large bones.
2. What can I serve with Salmon Meatballs? They pair well with a simple green salad, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them and bake directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover meatballs and avocado sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the meatballs in the oven or microwave, and stir the avocado sauce before serving.
5. Can I use a different sauce? Absolutely! These salmon meatballs also pair well with tzatziki, dill sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor profile.