Name: Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce: A Nutritious and Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483871H17M53S
Total time: PT-483871H17M53S
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skin removed; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 ripe avocados; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Water (as needed for consistency)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, these baked salmon meatballs with avocado sauce are the perfect choice. They offer a unique twist on traditional meatballs by using fresh salmon, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. The creamy avocado sauce adds a refreshing and velvety contrast to the savory meatballs, making this dish an excellent option for a light dinner, meal prep, or even an elegant appetizer.

Ingredients

For the Salmon Meatballs:

Fresh salmon fillets
Garlic
Onion
Egg
Panko breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese
Lemon zest
Dijon mustard
Fresh dill
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil

For the Avocado Sauce:

Ripe avocados
Greek yogurt
Lime juice
Garlic
Fresh cilantro
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Water (as needed for consistency)

Directions

Preparing the Salmon Meatballs:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Salmon: Remove the skin from the salmon fillets and finely chop or pulse in a food processor until coarsely ground.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the salmon, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, egg, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Form the Meatballs: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll into small balls, placing them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the meatballs to help them brown beautifully while baking.
Bake: Place the meatballs in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Preparing the Avocado Sauce:

Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Adjust Consistency: Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning as necessary for a well-balanced flavor.

Serving:

Serve the baked salmon meatballs warm, drizzled or dipped with the creamy avocado sauce.
Garnish with extra dill or cilantro for added freshness.
Pair with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain like quinoa for a complete meal.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon mixture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
Dairy-Free Version: Omit the Parmesan and substitute the Greek yogurt in the sauce with dairy-free yogurt.
Different Herbs: Try basil or parsley instead of dill for a unique flavor twist.
Tangy Sauce: Replace lime juice with lemon juice in the avocado sauce for a different citrus note.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the meatballs on a tray before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Sauce Storage: Store avocado sauce in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to prevent browning, and use within 2 days.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon?

Yes, canned salmon can be used, but make sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin before mixing.

What can I serve with these salmon meatballs?

They pair well with a fresh salad, quinoa, rice, roasted vegetables, or even in a wrap or pita.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze them uncooked for later use.

How do I keep the avocado sauce from turning brown?

Add extra lime or lemon juice and store it with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent oxidation.

Can I cook these meatballs in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

To make it keto-friendly, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with almond flour.

Can I use a different fish?

Yes! You can try trout or cod, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C), or they should be firm and opaque inside.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches if necessary.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can finely chop the salmon with a knife or use a potato masher for a chunkier texture.

Conclusion

Baked salmon meatballs with avocado sauce offer a nutritious and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs. They are easy to prepare, packed with healthy fats and protein, and incredibly versatile. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal!

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