Repices All
Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meatballs? Look no further! These baked salmon meatballs are not only packed with flavor but also loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to switch up your regular meatball routine, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why you’ll fall in love with these baked salmon meatballs. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time. Secondly, these meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a protein-packed addition to your favorite salad. Lastly, these meatballs are incredibly flavorful, with a perfect blend of herbs and spices that complement the natural richness of the salmon.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
For the creamy avocado sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, pulse the salmon until finely chopped.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, green onions, dill, parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the creamy avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the baked salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle the sauce over the meatballs.
Expert Tips for Success
1. To ensure the meatballs hold together, make sure you finely chop the salmon in a food processor. Avoid over-processing, as you still want some texture.
2. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
3. For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
4. Make sure to use ripe avocados for the creamy avocado sauce. They should be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy.
5. If you want a tangier sauce, add a bit more lime juice or a splash of white vinegar.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
1. Instead of parsley and dill, use cilantro and basil for a different flavor profile.
2. For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast instead.
3. If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with another type of fish, such as cod or halibut.
4. Add a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce to the meatball mixture for an umami kick.
Serving Suggestions
These baked salmon meatballs are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few serving suggestions:
1. Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
2. Pair the meatballs with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
3. Drizzle the creamy avocado sauce over a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing option.
4. Serve the meatballs on a toasted bun with some lettuce, tomato, and the creamy avocado sauce for a tasty salmon meatball burger.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep a breeze.
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
A: While fresh salmon is preferred for this recipe, you can use canned salmon in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well before using.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is easily scalable, so feel free to double or even triple the ingredients to feed a larger crowd.
Final Thoughts
These baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce are a true delight for seafood lovers and meatball enthusiasts alike. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends and family, these meatballs are sure to impress. Try this recipe out, and let the salmon meatballs become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Delicious and nutritious baked salmon meatballs packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, paired with a creamy avocado sauce. Easy to make and versatile, these flavorful meatballs are perfect as an appetizer, main course, or salad topper.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, pulse the salmon until finely chopped.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, green onions, dill, parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the creamy avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the baked salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle the sauce over the meatballs.
