Salmon Balls Avocado Sauce: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Salmon balls avocado sauce: Prepare to be amazed by this delightful appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! Imagine tender, flavorful salmon morsels, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, then drizzled with a creamy, vibrant avocado sauce. Sounds divine, right?

While the exact origins of salmon balls are difficult to pinpoint, the combination of seafood and creamy sauces has a long and rich history in coastal cuisines around the world. Think of Scandinavian gravlax with dill sauce or Japanese sushi with wasabi mayo – the pairing of fish and creamy elements is a timeless classic. This recipe takes that classic combination and elevates it with the healthy fats and vibrant flavor of avocado.

People adore this dish for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve these salmon balls avocado sauce as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party, a satisfying snack, or even a light lunch. Second, the combination of textures is simply irresistible. The slightly crispy exterior of the salmon balls gives way to a tender, flaky interior, perfectly complemented by the smooth, cool avocado sauce. Finally, it’s a relatively healthy option, packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and healthy fats from the avocado. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this culinary gem!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Salmon Balls:
• 1 pound skinless, boneless salmon fillet, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking
• For the Avocado Sauce:
• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2-3 tablespoons water, to adjust consistency
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh dill sprigs
• Lime wedges
• Red pepper flakes

Preparing the Salmon Balls:

Okay, let’s get started with the salmon balls! This part is super easy, and the key is to make sure everything is finely chopped so the balls hold together nicely.

1. Chop the Salmon: First, take your salmon fillet and chop it as finely as you possibly can. You don’t want big chunks; think more like a coarse mince. This will help the salmon balls bind together properly. I usually use a sharp chef’s knife and just go over it a few times until it’s the right consistency.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, red onion, dill, Dijon mustard, egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. I like to use my hands to gently mix it all together, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salmon balls tough.

3. Form the Balls: Now, using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the salmon mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. I find that a cookie scoop helps to keep them uniform in size, which ensures they cook evenly. Gently roll each ball between your palms to smooth out any cracks. Place the formed salmon balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking.

Cooking the Salmon Balls:

Time to cook these little guys! We’re going to pan-fry them for a nice golden-brown crust, but you could also bake them if you prefer a healthier option (instructions for baking are below!).

1. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough so that the salmon balls sizzle when they hit the pan, but not so hot that they burn. A good way to test is to drop a tiny piece of the salmon mixture into the oil; if it sizzles gently, you’re good to go.

2. Cook the Salmon Balls: Carefully place the salmon balls in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Use a spatula to gently flip them over. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

3. Remove and Drain: Once the salmon balls are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy.

Baking Option:

If you prefer to bake the salmon balls, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the formed salmon balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned. Remember to check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.

Making the Avocado Sauce:

While the salmon balls are cooking (or cooling slightly), let’s whip up the avocado sauce. This sauce is creamy, tangy, and the perfect complement to the rich salmon.

1. Prepare the Avocado: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a food processor or blender. You can also mash them by hand in a bowl if you don’t have a food processor, but the sauce will be smoother if you use one.

2. Combine Ingredients: Add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper to the food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. I like mine to be easily pourable but still thick enough to cling to the salmon balls.

3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more lime juice for extra tang, more salt and pepper to taste, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. This is your chance to make it perfect for your palate!

Assembling and Serving:

The final step! This is where all your hard work pays off. Get ready to enjoy these delicious salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce.

1. Plate the Salmon Balls: Arrange the cooked salmon balls on a serving platter or individual plates.

2. Drizzle with Avocado Sauce: Generously drizzle the avocado sauce over the salmon balls. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping, if you prefer.

3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh dill sprigs, lime wedges, and red pepper flakes, if desired. These garnishes add a pop of color and extra flavor.

4. Serve Immediately: Serve the salmon balls with avocado sauce immediately. They are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. These are great as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a party snack!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon ball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Add some veggies: Finely grated zucchini or carrots can be added to the salmon ball mixture for extra nutrients and moisture. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess water before adding them.
• Use different herbs: Instead of dill, try using parsley, chives, or a combination of herbs.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs.
• Serve with different sauces: If you’re not a fan of avocado, try serving the salmon balls with a lemon-dill aioli, a sweet chili sauce, or a creamy yogurt sauce.
• Make them ahead: The salmon balls can be formed ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. The avocado sauce is best made fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours if necessary. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent browning.

Enjoy your homemade Salmon Balls with Avocado Sauce! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you come up with!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Salmon Balls with Avocado Sauce are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of the flaky, flavorful salmon with the creamy, vibrant avocado sauce is simply divine. It’s a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying, quick to prepare, and impressive enough to serve to guests. What more could you ask for?

I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve these salmon balls as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a main course. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner. Second, it’s packed with nutrients. Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, while avocados are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and potassium. You’re nourishing your body while indulging your taste buds!

Third, and perhaps most importantly, it’s just plain delicious! The subtle sweetness of the salmon is perfectly balanced by the tangy lime juice and cilantro in the avocado sauce. The texture is also wonderful – the tender salmon balls paired with the smooth, creamy sauce create a delightful mouthfeel.

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. While I personally love these salmon balls served with a simple side salad, there are endless possibilities. You could try serving them over quinoa or brown rice for a more substantial meal. They would also be fantastic with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or sweet potatoes.

For a fun twist, you could try adding different herbs and spices to the salmon mixture. A pinch of red pepper flakes would add a touch of heat, while some dill or parsley would enhance the fresh, herbaceous flavor. You could even experiment with different types of fish, such as tuna or cod, although I highly recommend sticking with salmon for the best flavor and texture.

As for the avocado sauce, feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. If you want a sweeter sauce, add a touch of honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as cumin, chili powder, or garlic powder.

Another great variation is to bake the salmon balls instead of pan-frying them. Simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the salmon balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through. This is a healthier option and requires less hands-on time.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of these Salmon Balls with Avocado Sauce for yourself. I truly believe it will become a new favorite in your household.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me. I would love to hear your feedback, see your photos, and learn about any variations you try. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I can’t wait to hear from you! Happy cooking!