Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

Introduction

These baked salmon meatballs are a delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, they make a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh salmon, skin removed and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Water to thin, if needed

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Step 3: Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Bake the salmon meatballs for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden.
5. Step 5: While the meatballs bake, prepare the avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water to reach desired consistency.
6. Step 6: Serve the baked salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for a lighter texture.
• Try adding finely chopped red onion or scallions to the meatballs for a mild bite.
• If fresh salmon isn’t available, thawed frozen salmon works well too.
• Make the avocado sauce ahead and refrigerate, just add water before serving to refresh the texture.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, and stir the sauce before serving. Avoid microwaving the avocado sauce to prevent discoloration and texture change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Fresh salmon is preferred for texture, but you can use canned salmon if finely drained and mashed. Adjust seasoning as canned salmon is often salted.

Is it possible to freeze the meatballs?

Yes, shape the meatballs and freeze them on a tray before baking. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 63 reviews

These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce offer a healthy and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs. Made with fresh salmon and aromatic herbs, the meatballs are baked to perfection and paired with a smooth, tangy avocado and Greek yogurt sauce, making for an easy and nutritious meal or appetizer.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 30-33 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (about 16–20 meatballs) 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salmon Meatballs

• 1 lb fresh salmon, skin removed and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Avocado Sauce

• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water to thin, if needed

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to help the meatballs hold their shape.
3. Form the meatballs: Using your hands or a scoop, shape the salmon mixture into small, even-sized meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Cook until the meatballs are cooked through, firm to the touch, and slightly golden on the outside.
5. Make the avocado sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a little water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
6. Serve: Transfer the baked salmon meatballs to a serving platter and serve alongside the creamy avocado sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Use fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor.
• Make sure to finely chop the salmon to help the meatballs hold together better.
• Adjust seasoning in both meatballs and sauce to taste.
• The avocado sauce can be thinned with water or lemon/lime juice for a lighter dip.
• These meatballs can also be cooked on a stovetop using a lightly oiled skillet if preferred.
• Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: baked salmon meatballs, avocado sauce, healthy meatballs, salmon recipe, creamy avocado dip, easy dinner, low fat seafood