Description
Savory Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a quick and flavorful dinner option, combining the fresh taste of salmon with vibrant herbs and a rich, smooth avocado dip. Perfectly pan-grilled to golden perfection and served with a zesty, creamy sauce, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Balls
- 1 lb Fresh Salmon Fillet (Skin removed)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Chopped)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Can substitute with almond flour)
- 1 large Egg (Binds the mixture)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tbsp Lemon Zest
- 1 tsp Salt (To taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (To taste)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (For grilling)
Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe Avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Can substitute with sour cream)
- 1 tbsp Lime Juice
- 1 clove Garlic (Minced)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (To taste)
- 1/4 tsp Pepper (To taste)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Optional, for blending)
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by finely chopping or pulsing the fresh salmon fillet in a food processor until roughly minced but not pureed for better texture.
- Mixing the Salmon Ball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced salmon, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together well.
- Forming the Salmon Balls: Roll the salmon mixture into balls about 2 inches in diameter. Aim to make 12-14 even portions to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Cooking the Salmon Balls: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon balls carefully so they don’t break apart. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove from the heat and set aside.
- Preparing the Creamy Avocado Sauce: In a food processor, blend together the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro (if using) until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serving: Drizzle the creamy avocado sauce over the warm salmon balls or serve it on the side as a delicious dipping sauce. Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for later meals.
Notes
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Using fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro adds brightness and flavor to the salmon balls.
- If you prefer a dairy-free avocado sauce, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative or use sour cream as suggested.
- Make sure not to over-process the salmon in the food processor to maintain a good texture.
- These salmon balls can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes as a hands-off cooking alternative.
- Leftover salmon balls can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
