Description
These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a game-changer! Juicy, tender, and packed with protein, these salmon meatballs are baked to perfection and paired with a smooth, flavorful avocado sauce. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, an appetizer, or over a fresh salad, this dish is healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make!
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Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped (or canned, drained)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or whole wheat)
- 1 egg – Helps bind the meatballs together.
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt – Keeps them moist and tender.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds great flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – For a fresh, herby touch.
- ½ teaspoon salt – To enhance the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little kick.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens up the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – For a hint of citrusy freshness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For a little richness.
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado – The star ingredient, creamy and smooth.
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt – Adds extra creaminess and tang.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – Enhances the avocado’s flavor.
- 1 clove garlic – For a punch of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps create a smooth consistency.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons water – Adjust as needed for the perfect texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using fresh salmon, finely chop it or pulse it in a food processor until minced.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, Greek yogurt, garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
- Using a spoon or small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil to help them brown.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and lightly golden.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the salmon meatballs from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
- Drizzle or dip them in the creamy avocado sauce and serve warm.
- Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.
Notes
Tips for the Best Baked Salmon Meatballs
- Use Fresh Salmon for the Best Flavor – Canned works, but fresh is even better!
- Don’t Overmix – Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
- Brush with Olive Oil – This helps them brown beautifully while baking.
- Make Extra Sauce – It’s so good, you’ll want to drizzle it over everything!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean