Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
These Baked Salmon Meatballs are flaky, tender, and full of rich, savory flavor. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, they make for the perfect healthy dinner or appetizer. The salmon provides a great source of omega-3s and protein, while the creamy avocado sauce adds a fresh, cooling element to the dish. Serve with a side salad or veggies for a complete, satisfying meal!
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Ingredients
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Ingredients for Baked Salmon Meatballs
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillets – Skinless and boneless for easy preparation.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and keep them light.
- 1 large egg – Adds structure and moisture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – For freshness and color.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens the flavor of the salmon.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds tang and depth.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For greasing the baking sheet and drizzling.
Ingredients for Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado – For the creamy base.
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and tang.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice – For a fresh, zesty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil – To smooth the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Water – To thin the sauce, if necessary.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Use a sharp knife to chop the fresh salmon into small pieces or pulse the salmon in a food processor until finely chopped. Be sure not to over-process—it should still have texture.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Form the mixture into 12-14 meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil to help with browning.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
Step 4: Make the Avocado Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, make the creamy avocado sauce.
In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce drizzled on top or as a dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use Fresh Salmon – Fresh salmon gives the best flavor and texture, but you can also use canned salmon if necessary. Just be sure to drain it well.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix the meatball ingredients just until combined to keep them light and tender.
- Make Ahead – You can form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Add Some Heat – If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Modern American
