If you love dishes that are both comforting and fresh, then you are going to adore this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe. It’s a perfect marriage of tender, flavorful salmon meatballs baked to golden perfection and a luscious, smooth avocado sauce that adds brightness and creaminess without overwhelming the fish. This recipe is not just wholesome and vibrant but also incredibly easy to pull together, making it a real winner for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings where you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the delicate salmon to the zesty lime in the sauce, each component is simple yet essential to making this dish shine.
- 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, finely chopped: Provides the rich, meaty base that’s packed with omega-3 goodness.
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds the perfect lightness and helps bind the meatballs without weighing them down.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the meatballs together smoothly.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion: Brings a subtle sharpness that balances the salmon’s richness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh herbal touch that brightens the mixture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a hint of citrusy zing to keep flavors lively.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle depth of flavor without overpowering the fish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a light kick for balance.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking): Ensures the meatballs bake with a slight crisp and golden hue.
- 1 ripe avocado: The star of the sauce, blending creaminess and subtle buttery notes.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and a velvety texture to the avocado sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brings brightness and a fresh twist to the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce): Provides body and richness to make the sauce silky smooth.
- 1 small garlic clove, minced: Gives a little aromatic punch to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Crucial for seasoning the sauce perfectly.
How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Start by finely chopping the skinless salmon fillet into small pieces so your meatballs will have a great texture and cook evenly. In a large bowl, combine the salmon with panko breadcrumbs, egg, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture can hold its shape.
Step 2: Form and Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently shape the salmon mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and carefully place them on the baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray the meatballs with olive oil to ensure they brown nicely. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until they are cooked through and start to turn golden on the outside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, blend together the ripe avocado, plain Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This sauce offers a fresh, cooling complement to the warm salmon meatballs.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, serve the salmon meatballs warm, generously drizzled or dipped in your creamy avocado sauce. The combination of warm, tender meatballs with that luscious green sauce is nothing short of magical.
How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top just before serving. A wedge of lemon or lime on the side invites your guests to add a zesty splash that ties the flavors together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light side of sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale, or a simple quinoa salad for a wholesome, balanced meal. You can also serve the meatballs atop a bed of fluffy rice or tuck them into warm pita bread for an easy handheld option.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn your Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe into party bites by skewering the meatballs and serving them with dipping bowls of the avocado sauce. Another idea is layering the meatballs and sauce in small cups with crunchy veggies for a colorful appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover salmon meatballs or avocado sauce, keep the meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce is best stored separately in a sealed jar or bowl to preserve its freshness and creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked salmon meatballs by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. The avocado sauce doesn’t freeze well due to its creamy texture so it’s best to make that fresh or store refrigerated for a short time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover meatballs gently in a low oven at 325°F (160°C) or in a skillet with a touch of olive oil until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain their texture. Serve fresh avocado sauce on the side or make a quick fresh batch for best results.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, you absolutely can! Just make sure to drain and flake the canned salmon well before mixing it with the other ingredients. It’s a convenient option that still produces tasty meatballs.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To keep it gluten-free, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. The recipe is naturally pescatarian and packed with wholesome nutrients.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the avocado sauce?
If you’d like a dairy-free option, try replacing the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or even a splash of olive oil and a little water to reach a smooth consistency. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Yes, you can mix and form the meatballs a few hours before baking and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How do I make the avocado sauce less tangy?
Simply reduce the lime juice slightly or add a little more avocado or Greek yogurt to mellow out the tanginess. Tasting as you blend is key to getting the sauce just right.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe enough for anyone who loves a dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and truly satisfying. The mix of textures and vibrant flavors feels both indulgent and nourishing, making this a go-to recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (12–14 meatballs)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and healthy baked salmon meatballs served with a creamy avocado sauce. This recipe combines tender salmon with fresh herbs and spices, baked to perfection and paired with a smooth, zesty avocado dip. Perfect as a main course that’s both gluten-free and pescatarian friendly.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs
- 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking)
For the Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix the meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, egg, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well until the mixture binds together.
- Form the meatballs: Shape the salmon mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush or spray the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown and stay moist during baking.
- Bake the meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through, firm to the touch, and slightly golden on the outside.
- Prepare the avocado sauce: While the meatballs are baking, place the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper into a blender or food processor. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Serve the baked salmon meatballs warm with a generous spoonful of the creamy avocado sauce on the side.
Notes
- You can substitute canned salmon (well-drained and flaked) if fresh salmon isn’t available.
- Serve these meatballs with rice, fresh greens, or inside pita wraps for a more filling meal.
- The avocado sauce doubles as a delicious dip or salad dressing.
