Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

If you adore seafood with a fresh twist that still feels comforting and rich, then these Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are going to steal your heart. This dish brings together tender, perfectly baked salmon balls infused with fragrant herbs and zesty lemon, paired with a velvety avocado sauce that adds a luscious, tangy finish. It’s a wonderful balance of flavors and textures you can easily whip up for a weeknight dinner or share with friends at your next gathering. Plus, it’s healthy, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is the secret to making Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce shine. Each component plays a vital role from adding texture to layering flavor and brightness in this dish.

• 1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets: The star of the show, fresh salmon offers rich omega-3s and a delicate flavor perfect for the balls.
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs: These provide structure to the salmon balls, ensuring they hold together beautifully when baked.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping keep the mixture firm and moist.
• 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs infuse the salmon balls with an aromatic, herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
• 2 tbsp lemon juice: A touch of acidity that balances the richness of the salmon and avocado sauce.
• 1 ripe avocado: Adds creamy texture and healthy fats to the sauce, creating that dreamy finish.
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Contributes tanginess and creaminess to the avocado sauce while keeping it light.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory depth without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances the natural flavors throughout the recipe.

How to Make Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Step 1: Prepare and Flake the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Flake the fresh salmon fillets into small pieces in a large bowl using a fork, making sure there are no large chunks. This creates a uniform texture, ensuring each salmon ball bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Salmon Ball Ingredients

Add the breadcrumbs, egg, freshly chopped dill or parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper directly to the flaked salmon. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until well combined. You want the mixture moist but firm enough to shape into balls without falling apart.

Step 3: Shape the Salmon Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. This size ensures quick, even cooking while maintaining a satisfying bite. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the salmon balls turn golden brown on the outside and are cooked through inside. The result is a lovely crisp exterior with tender salmon inside.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce

While the salmon balls bake, blend together the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This sauce adds a refreshing, luscious foil to the savory salmon balls, making every bite unforgettable.

Step 6: Serve Warm with Sauce

Once baked, serve the salmon balls warm alongside the creamy avocado sauce for dipping or drizzling. The combination is simply irresistible and packed with nutrition.

How to Serve Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like extra chopped dill or parsley add a vibrant, herbaceous splash of color and fragrance that complements the dish wonderfully. Thin lemon wedges not only brighten the presentation but also allow guests to add an extra pop of fresh citrus.

Side Dishes

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce pair beautifully with light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or quinoa salad. These sides create a balanced meal full of bright flavors and textures that won’t overshadow the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salmon balls on wooden skewers for a fun appetizer or cocktail party snack. Alternatively, place them atop toasted crostini with a dollop of the avocado sauce for a sophisticated bite-sized treat anyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salmon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the creamy avocado sauce separate to preserve its freshness and vibrant color. This way, both components stay delicious when reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze the salmon balls before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. The avocado sauce, however, is best made fresh, as freezing can affect its texture.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the frozen or refrigerated salmon balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp again, about 10-15 minutes. Serve immediately with freshly prepared avocado sauce for the best taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh for Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce?

While fresh salmon offers the best texture and flavor, you can use canned salmon in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and check for any bones before mixing.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the salmon balls intact.

Can I prepare the avocado sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the avocado sauce a few hours in advance, but to avoid browning, cover it tightly with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface. It’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum creaminess and color.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the sauce?

If you prefer, sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative works well, though Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and thickness that complements the avocado beautifully.

How do I prevent the salmon balls from falling apart while baking?

Make sure your salmon mixture is well combined with the egg and breadcrumbs, and avoid overworking it. Chill the shaped balls briefly before baking to help them hold their shape better.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are truly one of those delightful dishes that feel special but are incredibly easy to prepare. They bring together wholesome ingredients with vibrant flavors and give you a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I can’t encourage you enough to try making this at home—it’s sure to become a favorite you’ll reach for time and again, sharing that warm, satisfying goodness with everyone at your table.

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