If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to make, and feels as fresh as a summer breeze, you have got to try this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe. These tender salmon meatballs combine the perfect balance of herbs, zest, and texture, then pair effortlessly with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a satisfying main, this recipe is sure to become a favorite crowd-pleaser in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, playing a specific role to create a dish that’s flavorful, moist, and visually appealing. From fresh salmon to fragrant dill and creamy avocado, each component helps you achieve that magical balance of taste and texture.
- Fresh salmon fillet: The star of the dish, providing a rich, tender base packed with omega-3s and flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Adds lightness and structure to the meatballs without weighing them down.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape perfectly while baking.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses a deep, aromatic kick that complements both salmon and avocado brilliantly.
- Green onions (chopped): Offers fresh, vibrant notes and a mild crunch to the mix.
- Fresh dill (chopped): Brings that classic herbal brightness that pairs naturally with seafood.
- Lemon juice and zest: Adds a refreshing citrus zing, lifting the flavors beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper: Balances and enhances all other ingredients.
- Olive oil: Used for brushing, it helps create a golden crust on the meatballs.
- Ripe avocado: Base of the sauce, providing creamy richness and healthy fats.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and a velvety texture to the avocado sauce.
- Lime juice: Brightens the sauce with a citrus pop that complements the salmon.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): Adds an herbaceous lift to the sauce, balancing its creaminess.
- Additional garlic clove: For a subtle savory depth in the dipping sauce.
- Water: Used sparingly to adjust the avocado sauce to your preferred consistency.
How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Chop the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, place the skinless salmon fillet into a food processor and pulse just enough to finely chop the fish — you want small pieces, not a puree, to maintain a lovely texture in the meatballs.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
Transfer your chopped salmon into a large mixing bowl. Add the panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped green onions, fresh dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine these ingredients gently but thoroughly. This mixture is what gives the meatballs their savory, herby, and bright taste profile.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, which should give you around 18 to 20 pieces. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with olive oil to encourage a beautiful golden finish. Pop them into the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the meatballs are cooked through and have developed a light golden crust.
Step 4: Make the Avocado Sauce
While your salmon meatballs bake, it’s time to whip up that creamy avocado sauce. Combine the ripe avocado, plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic clove, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until ultra smooth, adding water slowly to thin out the texture until you reach a perfect drizzle or dip consistency. This sauce truly elevates the meatballs, providing a luscious, cool balance to their warmth.
How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped dill or cilantro over the meatballs when plating for a pop of color and freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side allow you or your guests to add a bright squeeze of citrus to taste, which is a delightful finishing touch.
Side Dishes
These salmon meatballs pair wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad, herbed quinoa, or even some grilled vegetables. For a more indulgent option, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles provide a comforting, hearty contrast to the bright avocado sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve your salmon meatballs skewered on wooden sticks for a fun appetizer setup at your next gathering. Or tuck them into soft pita pockets with fresh greens and a generous dollop of avocado sauce for a trendy, handheld meal. No matter how you serve them, they are sure to delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado sauce separate to maintain its vibrant flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Remember to freeze the sauce separately if needed, as avocado sauce can change texture after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat the meatballs gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep their texture firm and delicious. The avocado sauce is best served fresh, but if refrigerated, give it a quick stir before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before processing. Fresh salmon tends to have the best texture, but thawed frozen salmon works well in these meatballs too.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs if I need a gluten-free option?
Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers can be great alternatives. They will still provide the binding and texture you need without compromising flavor.
Is it possible to make these meatballs without a food processor?
Yes! You can finely chop the salmon with a sharp knife instead, though it will take a bit more time and effort. The key is to keep the chop fine enough so the meatballs hold together well.
Can I make the avocado sauce spicier?
Definitely. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a small jalapeño, or even a dash of hot sauce will give the avocado sauce a pleasant kick that pairs well with the mild salmon meatballs.
How long do the meatballs keep after baking?
The cooked meatballs are best eaten within 3 days if stored properly in the refrigerator, ensuring you enjoy their full flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Trying out the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe is like discovering a fresh, delicious gem that’s surprisingly simple to make. The combination of tender salmon, zesty herbs, and creamy avocado sauce creates a dish that’s full of character and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or yourself, I promise these meatballs will bring a smile to your table and leave you inspired to create more wholesome, flavorful meals.
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Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 meatballs
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Pescatarian
Description
These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce are a healthy and flavorful dish perfect for an appetizer or main course. Made with fresh salmon and aromatic herbs, they are baked to golden perfection and served with a creamy, tangy avocado-yogurt sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare, gluten-free (when using gluten-free breadcrumbs), and packed with protein and healthy fats.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs:
- 1 pound fresh salmon fillet (skin removed)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
For the Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
Instructions
- 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.
- Prepare the salmon mixture: Place the salmon fillet in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but not pureed. Transfer to a mixing bowl and add panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped green onions, fresh dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form meatballs: Shape the salmon mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush the tops of the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown as they bake.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15–18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly golden on top.
- Make the avocado sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic clove, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to achieve a drizzle- or dipping-friendly consistency.
- Serve: Serve the baked salmon meatballs warm, drizzled with the avocado sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy as an appetizer or a main dish.
Notes
- These meatballs are delicious served cold over salads or tucked into pita bread with greens for a light meal.
- You can substitute dill with parsley or basil depending on your flavor preferences.
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving.
