Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy a delightful twist on seafood with these baked Salmon Balls, paired with a luscious creamy avocado sauce that adds a rich, buttery flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or a healthy snack, these bites are packed with protein and omega-3s, making them both nutritious and satisfying. Serve them at your next gathering for a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will love!
Discover the perfect blend of flavors and textures with our delicious salmon balls!
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports heart health, brain function, and is packed with high-quality protein that is essential for muscle maintenance and recovery. Regular consumption of salmon can help lower inflammation in the body, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Plus, its unique combination of nutrients can enhance overall wellbeing and longevity.
In addition to omega-3s, salmon is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals. It contains B vitamins that play a crucial role in energy production as well as vitamin D, which is vital for bone health. The selenium in salmon has antioxidant properties, supporting the immune system. Incorporating salmon into your meals contributes significantly to daily nutritional needs, ensuring you and your family stay healthy and energized.
The Versatility of Avocado
Avocado is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a fantastic addition to many dishes. Not only does avocado elevate the taste of your meals, but it is also loaded with healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. It aids in absorbing fat-soluble vitamins and contributes to overall balanced nutrition. Whether you are a fan of savory or sweet dishes, avocados can seamlessly fit into any recipe.
Additionally, avocados are packed with fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer. They are a great source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports proper muscle function. Using avocado in sauces, like our creamy avocado sauce, not only enhances flavor but also adds a nutritious component that everyone can enjoy.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
These salmon balls can be served with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Try pairing them with a fresh green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the salmon and sauce. Roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad also make excellent accompaniments, providing an additional layer of flavor and nutrition. Experimenting with different sides can elevate this dish for various occasions or personal preferences.
For a fun twist, consider serving the salmon balls in slider form using whole-grain buns. You can add a slice of tomato or garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor. This makes for a satisfying lunch or casual dinner option. Don’t forget to explore other homemade dips or sauces to accompany the salmon balls, providing endless opportunities to customize your dining experience.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Balls
- 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix these ingredients well to enhance the flavors!
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon Balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, bread crumbs, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Salmon Balls
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce
In a blender, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Serve
Serve the warm salmon balls with the creamy avocado sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious homemade salmon balls!
Storage Tips
To keep your salmon balls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to three days. Reheating them in the oven ensures they retain their crispiness, providing you with an enjoyable experience just like the first time. If you want to make a batch ahead of time, these salmon balls can also be frozen before baking. Just shape them and place them on a baking tray to freeze them individually before transferring to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
When you're ready to enjoy from frozen, simply bake them straight from the freezer. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, but they'll still taste great. The creamy avocado sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Make sure to use it within two days for best flavor and quality.
Customizing Your Salmon Balls
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients in your salmon balls! You can add grated parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor or mix in chopped herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh twist. If you're looking to spice things up, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to tweak this recipe to suit your taste preferences.
You can also experiment with different types of fish if salmon isn’t your favorite. Tuna or even canned salmon work well as alternatives. Moreover, gluten-free breadcrumbs can easily be substituted to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Customizing recipes to meet your needs enhances enjoyment and encourages you to make healthy, nutritious meals that your entire family will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the salmon balls?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Make sure to thaw them before cooking.
→ What can I serve with these salmon balls?
They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as part of a seafood platter.
Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Enjoy a delightful twist on seafood with these baked Salmon Balls, paired with a luscious creamy avocado sauce that adds a rich, buttery flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or a healthy snack, these bites are packed with protein and omega-3s, making them both nutritious and satisfying. Serve them at your next gathering for a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will love!
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24.0
What You'll Need
For the Salmon Balls
- 1 pound salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, bread crumbs, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
In a blender, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Serve the warm salmon balls with the creamy avocado sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 15g
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2.5g