Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your appetizer game with these Baked Salmon Balls paired with a luscious Creamy Avocado Sauce. Each bite is a delightful fusion of rich salmon flavor and creamy goodness, making this dish not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for any gathering or casual dinner, these salmon balls are a delightful twist on traditional recipes that everyone will love.
These Baked Salmon Balls are not just delicious; they're a healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks. They're packed with protein and seared to perfection, boasting a crispy exterior and moist interior. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, they deliver an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that will impress your friends and family.
Why You'll Love These Salmon Balls
- Healthy and packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Easy to prepare and bake.
- Perfect for gatherings or as a meal.
Healthy Ingredients for a Wholesome Meal
Baked Salmon Balls are not only delicious but also a nutritious choice for health-conscious individuals. Salmon is renowned for its high omega-3 fatty acid content, which is essential for heart health and brain function. These beneficial fats help reduce inflammation and improve overall wellness, making salmon a key ingredient in a balanced diet. When combined with fresh ingredients like green onions and lemon juice, you get a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
The addition of Greek yogurt in the Creamy Avocado Sauce contributes to this dish's health benefits as well. Greek yogurt is high in protein and probiotics, both of which promote digestive health. Coupled with the healthy fats from avocado, this sauce not only enhances the flavor of the salmon balls but also adds a creamy texture without excessive calories. Since the sauce is simple and quick to make, it seamlessly aligns with the health-focused theme of the dish.
A Flavorful Fusion
The flavor profile of Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce offers a delightful mix of savory and creamy elements. The garlic powder infuses each bite with aromatic depth, while the lemon juice brightens up the rich flavor of salmon, making it more vibrant and palatable. This harmony of flavors ensures that every mouthful is enjoyable, pleasing even the pickiest of eaters.
Moreover, the dipping sauce elevates the entire experience by providing a cool, creamy counterbalance to the warm, seasoned salmon. The lime juice gives the sauce a citrusy punch, complementing the fish without overpowering it. Together, these components create a dish that’s not only appealing to the eyes but is also packed with layers of taste, making it an excellent addition to any menu.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing for game day, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Baked Salmon Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve as appetizers or snacks, allowing guests to indulge without feeling guilty. They’re also a fantastic way to introduce more seafood into your diet, especially for those who might be hesitant about eating fish.
Moreover, these salmon balls can easily be scaled up or down depending on the event size, making them versatile for any occasion. They can also be served alongside a variety of sides or salads, easily incorporating them into a larger meal. The adaptability of this recipe ensures that you can enjoy these delicious bites anytime!
Ingredients
For the Salmon Balls
- 1 lb fresh salmon, skin removed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon Mixture
In a food processor, pulse the salmon until coarsely chopped. Add breadcrumbs, green onions, beaten egg, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until combined but still chunky.
Form the Balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Form the salmon mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Salmon Balls
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway for even cooking.
Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the salmon balls are baking, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Serve
Remove the salmon balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with the creamy avocado sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious baked salmon balls!
Storage Tips
If you have leftover Baked Salmon Balls, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their flavor and texture, reheat them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, rather than using the microwave, which may result in a soggy texture. This careful reheating will help preserve their delightful crispiness, making them as enjoyable as when they were freshly baked.
For longer storage, consider freezing the salmon balls before baking. Arrange the formed balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly cooked results.
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavor profile of the salmon balls by adding different herbs and spices such as dill, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Additionally, feel free to swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or panko for a different texture. The options are limitless and allow you to tailor the dish to your personal taste preferences.
You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances the dish's vibrancy but also increases the fiber content, making your snacks even healthier. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own—the more personalized, the more enjoyable!
Serving Suggestions
Baked Salmon Balls are incredibly versatile in terms of serving. Pair them with a fresh salad for a light meal or serve with whole-grain pita bread and fresh veggies to create a delightful platter. For a casual gathering, consider offering a variety of dipping sauces along with the creamy avocado sauce, such as a tangy tzatziki or a spicy sriracha mayonnaise. This variety will keep your guests engaged and satisfied with multiple flavor options.
To enhance the presentation, serve the salmon balls on a beautiful platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and colorful vegetables. This simple touch will make your dish visually appealing, adding to the overall dining experience. Remember, food not only needs to taste good, but it should look appetizing too!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, canned salmon works well for this recipe. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing.
→ How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs.
Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these Baked Salmon Balls paired with a luscious Creamy Avocado Sauce. Each bite is a delightful fusion of rich salmon flavor and creamy goodness, making this dish not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for any gathering or casual dinner, these salmon balls are a delightful twist on traditional recipes that everyone will love.
Created by: Eleanor Briggs
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salmon Balls
- 1 lb fresh salmon, skin removed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
In a food processor, pulse the salmon until coarsely chopped. Add breadcrumbs, green onions, beaten egg, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until combined but still chunky.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Form the salmon mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway for even cooking.
While the salmon balls are baking, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and salt in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Remove the salmon balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with the creamy avocado sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g