Baked Salmon Meatballs with a Tangy Avocado Sauce Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinner or impress your guests with these Baked Salmon Meatballs paired with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce. Packed with omega-3s and bursting with flavor, these salmon meatballs are tender, juicy, and delightfully easy to prepare. The accompanying avocado sauce adds a zesty, velvety touch that perfectly complements the dish.

This healthy, flavorful recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy salmon in a unique and versatile format.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, and the avocado sauce provides healthy fats and vibrant flavor.
2. Easy to Make: Baking the meatballs makes preparation simple and mess-free.
3. Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
4. Perfect for Any Meal: Serve as an appetizer, in a salad, with pasta, or as a main course.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Meatballs

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare Salmon: If using fresh salmon, chop it finely or pulse it in a food processor until ground but not pureed.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
4. Form Meatballs: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the tops of the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown in the oven.
6. Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Tangy Avocado Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more lime juice or salt if needed.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Meatballs: Arrange the baked salmon meatballs on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle or Dip: Drizzle the avocado sauce over the meatballs or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika for a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Main Dish: Serve the meatballs over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
2. As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks and a bowl of avocado sauce for dipping.
3. In a Wrap: Stuff the meatballs into a pita or tortilla with lettuce, cucumber, and sauce for a portable meal.
4. With Zoodles: Pair with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon ensures the meatballs are moist and flavorful. Canned salmon can be used in a pinch, but the texture may differ.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the meatballs dense. Combine ingredients until just incorporated.
3. Evenly Sized Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and even cooking.
4. Keep the Sauce Fresh: Prepare the avocado sauce close to serving time to prevent browning. Adding extra lime juice can help preserve its vibrant color.

Variations

Spicy Kick

Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado sauce for heat.

Dairy-Free

Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the sauce to make the recipe dairy-free.

Gluten-Free

Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs.

Herbaceous Twist

Use cilantro instead of parsley for a fresh, citrusy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Canned Salmon?

Yes, canned salmon can be used as a substitute. Be sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin.

What Other Sauces Pair Well?

While the avocado sauce is a perfect match, you can also serve these meatballs with tzatziki, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Can I Fry the Meatballs Instead of Baking?

Yes! Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Conclusion

These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Tangy Avocado Sauce are a showstopper that seamlessly combines health and indulgence. Whether you’re preparing a fancy dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish delivers bold flavors and comforting textures.

Try it today, and watch it become a family favorite!

Yield: 4

Baked Salmon Meatballs with a Tangy Avocado Sauce Recipe

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Elevate your weeknight dinner or impress your guests with these Baked Salmon Meatballs paired with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce. Packed with omega-3s and bursting with flavor, these salmon meatballs are tender, juicy, and delightfully easy to prepare. The accompanying avocado sauce adds a zesty, velvety touch that perfectly complements the dish.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Salmon Meatballs:
• 1 lb fresh salmon, skin removed, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Tangy Avocado Sauce:
• 1 large ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water, as needed, to thin the sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, parsley, green onions, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Using damp hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

2. Bake the Meatballs

1. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates they are fully cooked.

3. Make the Tangy Avocado Sauce

1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired sauce consistency.

4. Serve

1. Arrange the baked salmon meatballs on a platter or over a bed of greens, rice, or quinoa.
2. Drizzle with the tangy avocado sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Make it dairy-free: Use a plant-based yogurt for the avocado sauce.
• Add more spice: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Meal prep: Make the meatballs and sauce ahead of time; store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal.
• Pair with zucchini noodles, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes for a hearty dinner.
• Use the meatballs and sauce as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.