Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your appetizer game with these delicious Salmon Meatballs, perfectly paired with a creamy avocado sauce. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this easy recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthy option for your gatherings. These light and savory meatballs make an irresistible finger food that will have everyone coming back for more.
These Salmon Meatballs not only make for a fantastic appetizer but are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutritious choice for any gathering.
Why Choose Salmon Meatballs?
Salmon meatballs are a fantastic alternative to traditional meatballs, offering a wealth of health benefits. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports heart health and promotes brain function. This makes the dish not only delicious but also nutritious. The delicate flavors of salmon combined with fresh ingredients create a sensational experience that appeals to both the palate and the well-being of your guests.
These meatballs are incredibly versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or an elegant dinner party, salmon meatballs can easily elevate your menu. They’re not only suitable for an appetizer but can also be served as a main course over a bed of greens or with a side of whole grains for a balanced meal.
One of the best things about salmon meatballs is their ease of preparation. Unlike traditional meatballs that often require extensive cooking techniques, these can be prepared quickly and efficiently. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that looks impressive and tastes gourmet, making them an ideal choice for busy home cooks.
The Perfect Pair: Creamy Avocado Sauce
Complementing the salmon meatballs, the creamy avocado sauce adds a layer of richness and flavor balance. Made with ripe avocados and Greek yogurt, this sauce is not only indulgent but also packed with nutrients. Avocados are a great source of healthy fats and fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness, making your appetizer even more satisfying.
The lime juice in the avocado sauce brightens the overall flavor of the dish, adding a refreshing zesty kick. This sauce is so versatile that it can be used beyond just dipping. You can drizzle it over salads, use it as a spread on sandwiches, or even dollop it on grilled fish or chicken for an added layer of deliciousness.
Making the creamy avocado sauce is simple and quick, enhancing the appeal of this entire recipe. With just a blender or food processor, you can whip up this decadent sauce in minutes. This convenience ensures you won’t spend hours in the kitchen and can focus on enjoying your event while impressing your guests.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs
- 1 pound fresh salmon, skinless and diced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients and prepare your meatballs and sauce.
Instructions
Make the Salmon Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the diced salmon, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the meatballs are cooking, make the sauce by blending the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth.
Serve
Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them warm with the creamy avocado sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy these delicious meatballs as a snack or appetizer!
Serving Suggestions
Salmon meatballs can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your theme or occasion. For a more casual setting, place the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving. They can also be presented on skewers with veggies for a colorful display. If you're aiming for elegance, serve them on small plates with a drizzle of the creamy avocado sauce and a garnish of fresh herbs.
Consider pairing these meatballs with a light salad or vegetable platter to round out your appetizer spread. A refreshing cucumber or arugula salad can provide the perfect contrast to the richness of the meatballs and avocado sauce. Additionally, serving alongside some whole-grain pita or crackers can add a delightful crunch to your presentation.
Cooking Tips
When preparing the salmon meatballs, make sure to chop the salmon into small, even pieces for uniform cooking. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little olive oil or an extra egg to reach the desired consistency. Additionally, be mindful not to overmix the ingredients, as this can lead to tough meatballs instead of tender bites.
For added flavor, consider infusing your meatball mixture with herbs and spices like dill, parsley, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also substitute part of the salmon with other types of fish or add finely diced vegetables for extra texture and nutrients.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover salmon meatballs, worry not! They store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring they retain their delightful texture.
The creamy avocado sauce can also be stored in the fridge, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If you do have leftovers, sprinkle a little lime juice on top before sealing to help prevent browning. This will keep your sauce looking and tasting delicious for any future meals or snacks.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before baking.
→ What can I serve with these meatballs?
They pair well with a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board.
Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these delicious Salmon Meatballs, perfectly paired with a creamy avocado sauce. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this easy recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthy option for your gatherings. These light and savory meatballs make an irresistible finger food that will have everyone coming back for more.
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salmon Meatballs
- 1 pound fresh salmon, skinless and diced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the diced salmon, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
While the meatballs are cooking, make the sauce by blending the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth.
Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them warm with the creamy avocado sauce on the side for dipping.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g