Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile: Great for meal prep, parties, or a quick weeknight dinner.
- Healthy and Nutritious: High in protein and heart-healthy fats.
- Easy to Make: Baked for a mess-free and lighter option.
- Bursting with Flavor: Lemon, herbs, and creamy avocado elevate every bite.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor or blender
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Tender, flavorful, and packed with omega-3s, these Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meatballs. Served with a rich avocado sauce, they make a perfect main dish or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the salmon into chunks and place it in a food processor. Pulse until finely minced, but not a paste.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and lightly golden.
Step 4: Make the Avocado Sauce
- While the meatballs bake, blend the avocado, lime juice, Greek yogurt, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the baked salmon meatballs on a plate and drizzle with the creamy avocado sauce. Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon ensures a moist, flavorful meatball.
- Chill the Mixture: If it’s too soft, refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes before shaping.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before adding the egg for perfect seasoning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use canned salmon?
Yes, but fresh salmon provides the best texture and flavor. If using canned, ensure it’s drained well.
Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream in the avocado sauce.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the meatballs in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion: Healthy and Delicious!
These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of salmon in a new and exciting way. With a creamy avocado sauce that perfectly complements the tender meatballs, this dish is sure to impress at your dinner table.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Enjoy these salmon meatballs as a nutritious, flavorful addition to your weekly meal rotation. Don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends!
