Name: Salmon Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Appetizers-snacks
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped.; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs.; 1 egg, lightly beaten.; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped.; 1 tsp garlic powder.; 1/2 tsp paprika.; Salt and pepper to taste.; 1 tbsp olive oil (for baking).; 1 ripe avocado.; 1/4 cup sour cream.; 1 tbsp lemon juice.; 1 clove garlic, minced.; Salt and pepper to taste.

These Baked Salmon Meatballs are an easy and healthy appetizer or snack option that’s full of flavor. Made with fresh salmon, breadcrumbs, parsley, and a blend of spices, these meatballs are baked to perfection and served with a creamy avocado sauce. The avocado sauce, made with ripe avocado, sour cream, and lemon juice, adds a tangy and refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the salmon. Whether you’re serving these at a party or enjoying them as a light meal, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for any occasion.

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce — Baked salmon meatballs with avocado sauce | Myhomemaderecipe.com

If you're searching for a light yet flavorful appetizer, these Baked Salmon Meatballs with a Tangy Avocado Sauce are a perfect choice. The salmon is seasoned and baked to perfection, while the creamy avocado sauce adds a refreshing twist that elevates the dish. This is an easy, healthy recipe that’s ideal for serving at parties or enjoying as a quick snack.

INGREDIENTS

Salmon fillet: 1 pound of fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped. This forms the base of the meatballs, providing a rich, natural flavor.
Breadcrumbs: ½ cup of breadcrumbs helps bind the meatballs together, giving them structure and texture.
Egg: 1 lightly beaten egg adds moisture and helps hold the meatballs together.
Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley bring a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon of garlic powder adds a savory depth to the flavor.
Paprika: ½ teaspoon of paprika provides a subtle warmth and color to the meatballs.
Salt and pepper: To taste, these seasonings balance the flavors of the dish.
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon of olive oil for drizzling over the meatballs before baking, ensuring they come out crisp and golden.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it lightly with olive oil or using a non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon fillet, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be moist and hold together when shaped into meatballs.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a tablespoon, form the salmon mixture into small, evenly-sized meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each meatball for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs: Drizzle the salmon meatballs with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake the meatballs for 12-15 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and cooked through. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
Step 5: Prepare the Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, make the creamy avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
Step 6: Serve: Once the salmon meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, drizzled with the tangy avocado sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges for a bright, fresh touch.

Serving and Storage Tips

These Baked Salmon Meatballs are best served warm, freshly baked, and drizzled with the tangy avocado sauce.
If you're hosting a party, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving. Add the avocado sauce right before serving.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can serve these with a side of lemon wedges or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.
To store leftovers, place the cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The avocado sauce should be stored separately to keep its freshness.
When reheating leftovers, use the oven to maintain the meatballs' crisp texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Helpful Notes

If you don't have fresh salmon, you can use canned salmon as a substitute. Be sure to drain it well and remove any bones before using it in the recipe.
Feel free to customize the seasoning in the meatballs to your taste. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can replace the sour cream in the avocado sauce with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Gordon Ramsay: Always make sure your salmon is fresh and high-quality to get the best flavor and texture in your meatballs.
Chef Jamie Oliver: Suggests adding a touch of citrus zest to the salmon mixture to brighten up the flavors and make the dish feel lighter.
Chef Nigella Lawson: Recommends garnishing with fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, to enhance the presentation and flavor.