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Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce
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These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce are a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for any meal. Moist salmon meatballs baked to a golden finish pair wonderfully with a creamy, zesty avocado sauce, balancing fresh ingredients with comforting flavors. Ideal for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or lunchboxes, this recipe is family-friendly, nutrient-rich, and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salmon Meatballs

  • 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, finely chopped or pulsed
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill or parsley), chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

For the Avocado Sauce

  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
  • 1 small garlic clove
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Start by finely chopping or pulsing fresh salmon fillets in a food processor until just combined but not mushy. Transfer to a bowl and mix in minced garlic, finely diced onion, panko breadcrumbs, egg, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Combine gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
  2. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the salmon mixture into small, uniform meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking. This size ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil to encourage browning, then bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden on the outside. Avoid overbaking to keep them juicy.
  4. Prepare the Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine ripe avocado flesh, lime juice, Greek yogurt (or your preferred alternative), a pinch of salt, pepper, and a small garlic clove in a blender or food processor. Blend until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust lime juice or seasoning as desired.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your freshly baked salmon meatballs warm, drizzled with or dipped into the luscious avocado sauce. Garnish with extra herbs or a wedge of lime for a bright, refreshing finish.

Notes

  • Don’t overprocess salmon; keep some texture in the fish for a better mouthfeel.
  • Use fresh, high-quality salmon for superior flavor and moisture.
  • Chill the meatball mixture for 10 minutes before shaping to help them hold together better.
  • Brush the meatballs with olive oil before baking to achieve a golden crust without frying.
  • Adjust the avocado sauce thickness by thinning with water or additional lime juice if a drizzle consistency is desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon meatballs, avocado sauce, baked salmon, healthy appetizer, gluten free, quick dinner, seafood recipe, omega-3, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/baked-salmon-meatballs-with-avocado-sauce/