Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce that makes them a standout dish for any occasion. These tender, flavorful salmon bites pair perfectly with a luscious avocado sauce that adds a fresh, creamy tang. The combination is refreshing yet comforting, making this recipe a fantastic choice whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a unique appetizer. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself returning to this delightful recipe again and again because it just hits all the right notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in the Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce. Each element plays a vital role, from the tender salmon providing protein and richness, to the fresh herbs and lemon juice adding brightness and zing.

• Fresh skinless salmon fillets: Use quality salmon for the best flavor and moist texture.
• Plain breadcrumbs: These bind the mixture and help keep the balls tender yet structured.
• Large egg: Acts as a natural glue, holding everything together beautifully.
• Fresh dill or parsley, chopped: Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the salmon.
• Lemon juice: Brings acidity to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the fish.
• Ripe avocado: The creamy base for the avocado sauce that makes the dish so special.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and silky texture to the avocado sauce.
• Garlic powder: Provides a subtle, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.

How to Make Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get everything ready for baking. Flake the salmon into small, even pieces using a fork or your hands, placing them into a large mixing bowl. This is important so that your salmon balls will hold together and cook evenly.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Add the breadcrumbs, egg, freshly chopped dill or parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper directly into the bowl with the flaked salmon. Mix everything gently until just combined—you want all the flavors to marry without overworking the mixture, which could make the salmon balls dense.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Salmon Balls

Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, then form the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place these evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake the salmon balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, offering a satisfying crispness on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce

While the salmon balls are baking, prepare the sauce by blending the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, additional lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This luscious avocado sauce not only adds a cooling contrast but also brings a vibrant green color that makes the dish pop visually.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once the salmon balls are golden and fragrant, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle or dollop the creamy avocado sauce over the top, or serve it on the side for dipping. The warm texture of the balls combined with the cool, velvety sauce makes for an unbeatable bite every time.

How to Serve Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to enhance the freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side brighten the plate and invite guests to add just a little extra zing to their salmon balls.

Side Dishes

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce pair beautifully with light, fresh sides. Think crisp green salads, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even a simple quinoa pilaf. These sides won’t compete with the main dish but will round out your meal with texture and additional nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salmon balls on small skewers as elegant appetizers or stack them atop cucumber rounds for a fresh and vibrant bite-sized treat. You can even make a colorful platter by placing the salmon balls alongside other seafood favorites, making it perfect for parties or special gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon balls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eaten within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. The creamy avocado sauce is best kept separate to maintain its texture and flavor.

Freezing

Salmon balls freeze well! Place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the salmon balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy. Serve with fresh avocado sauce for that creamy burst of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Using canned salmon can work in a pinch, but fresh salmon delivers a much better texture and flavor. If you do use canned, make sure to drain it well and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe isn’t naturally gluten-free due to the breadcrumbs, but you can easily substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs without compromising the taste or texture.

Can I make the sauce vegan?

Yes! Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, and your creamy avocado sauce will still be rich and flavorful, perfect for a vegan twist.

What if I don’t have an oven?

You can also pan-fry the salmon balls in a little olive oil over medium heat until golden brown on all sides. This gives a lovely crispness and speeds up the cooking process.

How spicy is this dish?

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce aren’t spicy—they have a fresh, mild flavor profile. You can easily add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the salmon mixture or sauce if you want a bit of heat.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce, you’ll have a new favorite that’s as versatile as it is delicious. It’s a dish that feels special but is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for any meal. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this fresh, flavorful delight—you’re going to love every bite!

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