Savory Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever enjoyed a dish that feels like a warm hug? Baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce embody that comforting experience, blending tender salmon with the smooth richness of avocado. This dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a cozy evening with friends.

Imagine the aroma of seasoned salmon wafting through your kitchen, the anticipation of that first bite, where the tender meatballs melt in your mouth, complemented by the creamy, zesty avocado sauce. This recipe is ideal for gatherings or as a delightful weeknight meal. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare while still impressing your guests with its vibrant flavors. Let’s get cooking and prepare to savor an unforgettable dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Key Ingredients For Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Salmon Fillet: Choose high-quality salmon for the best flavor; it should be bright in color and smell fresh.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Panko breadcrumbs to add texture; they help bind the meatballs together.
• Fresh Parsley: Finely chop fresh parsley for added flavor and a pop of color in your meatballs.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic depth; finely mince them to infuse maximum flavor.
• Egg: One large egg acts as a binder for the meatball mixture, ensuring they hold their shape during baking.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors of both the meatballs and sauce.
• Avocado: Choose ripe avocados; they create a creamy sauce that perfectly complements the salmon meatballs.
• Greek Yogurt: Use plain Greek yogurt as a base for the sauce, adding creaminess without excess fat.
• Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all other flavors in both the meatballs and sauce.

For the Sauce:

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an herby note to your sauce; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
• Cumin Powder: A pinch of cumin brings warmth and earthiness to balance out the creaminess of the avocado.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.

Second Step: Prepare Salmon

In a mixing bowl, use a fork to flake the fresh salmon fillet into small pieces. Ensure there are no bones remaining.

Third Step: Mix Ingredients

Add breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper to the bowl with salmon. Combine thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Fourth Step: Form Meatballs

Using your hands, form mixture into small meatballs about one inch in diameter. Place them on your prepared baking sheet spaced evenly apart.

Fifth Step: Bake Meatballs

Bake in preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until cooked through and slightly golden on top.

Sixth Step: Prepare Avocado Sauce

While meatballs bake, combine ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, cumin powder, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Finally: Serve

Transfer baked salmon meatballs onto plates and drizzle generously with creamy avocado sauce for an irresistible finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Select Quality Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible; it has superior flavor compared to farmed varieties.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients for meatballs, mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Experiment With Spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.
• Use Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe but not overripe; they should yield slightly when pressed gently.

Enjoy preparing these delectable baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce! They are sure to become a beloved staple at your table.

Presentation Ideas

This Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh Salad – Serve the meatballs atop a bed of mixed greens, accompanied by cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.
• Whole Grain Rice – Complement the dish with a side of brown rice or quinoa, which adds nutty flavors and fiber to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables – Pairing these salmon meatballs with roasted asparagus or zucchini enhances the dish’s overall nutrition and flavor.

How to Store Baked Salmon Meatballs

To preserve the freshness of your Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce, store them in an airtight container. Place the meatballs separately from the sauce to prevent sogginess. They can last up to three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs without sauce. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating your Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce, do so gently to maintain their texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer using a microwave, heat in short intervals to prevent overcooking.

Nutritional Benefits

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce not only taste delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health. Additionally, avocados provide healthy fats and are packed with vitamins E and C. This combination makes for a nutrient-dense meal that supports overall wellness.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce in various delightful ways. Consider placing them on whole wheat pita bread for a satisfying sandwich option. Alternatively, serve them as an appetizer at gatherings alongside toothpicks for easy snacking. These versatile meatballs can also be added to pasta dishes for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon for baked salmon meatballs?

Yes, you can use canned salmon as an alternative to fresh salmon when making baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce. Canned salmon is convenient and often less expensive while still offering robust flavor and texture. Ensure you drain it well before mixing it with other ingredients for optimal results.

What type of breadcrumbs should I use in this recipe?

For the best flavor in your baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce, opt for panko breadcrumbs or whole wheat breadcrumbs. Panko provides a lighter texture that helps keep the meatballs tender while maintaining structure during baking. Whole wheat breadcrumbs add extra fiber and nutrition.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free panko. This allows everyone to enjoy this delicious dish without compromising dietary needs.

How spicy is the creamy avocado sauce?

The spiciness of your creamy avocado sauce depends on the amount of jalapeño or hot sauce you choose to add. For a mild flavor, omit these ingredients altogether; however, if you enjoy heat, start with just a small amount and adjust according to your taste preferences when preparing baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce.

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Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 meatballs 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a delightful and nutritious dish that combines tender salmon with a rich, silky avocado sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, these meatballs deliver an explosion of flavor in every bite. With simple preparation and fresh ingredients, you’ll impress your guests while enjoying a heart-healthy meal that’s easy to make.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillet
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Panko)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 ripe avocado
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (for sauce)
• ¼ tsp cumin powder (for sauce)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, flake the salmon into small pieces; remove any bones.
3. Mix in breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper until combined.
4. Form mixture into one-inch meatballs and place on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and cooked through.
6. For the sauce, blend avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
7. Serve meatballs drizzled with avocado sauce.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: - Choose wild-caught salmon for optimal flavor. - Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender. - Feel free to customize the sauce by adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper.