Discover a delightful seafood twist with these Salmon Balls accompanied by a luscious Creamy Avocado Sauce. Each bite is bursting with fresh herbs and smoky paprika, delivering a flavorful and nutritious appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. This dish highlights the rich omega-3 benefits of fresh salmon combined with the silky texture of avocado, making it both wholesome and delicious.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a healthy snack, these salmon balls are easy to prepare, cook quickly, and pair beautifully with the vibrant green avocado sauce. The combination creates a balance of taste and texture that’s sure to satisfy your palate while nourishing your body.
- Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fresh herbs for a healthy, flavorful boost.
- The creamy avocado sauce adds richness and a perfect zesty balance.
- Quick to prepare and easy to customize with gluten-free options.
Ingredients
- Fresh Salmon Fillet: 1 lb of high-quality skinless salmon, rich in omega-3 fatty acids for heart-healthy benefits.
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup chopped; adds a bright, herbal note and freshness to the salmon balls.
- Fresh Cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped; brings a citrusy aroma and complements the sauce perfectly.
- Breadcrumbs or Almond Flour: 1/2 cup, to bind the mixture; almond flour works as a gluten-free alternative.
- Large Egg: 1, acts as a natural binder to hold the salmon balls together during cooking.
- Garlic Cloves: 2 cloves minced; adds a savory depth and aromatic kick to the mix.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp, imparts a subtle smoky flavor enhancing the seafood taste.
- Lemon Zest: 1 tbsp, for a bright citrus zing that lifts the overall flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, balanced seasoning to enhance all ingredients.
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp, used for grilling to achieve a golden crust without overpowering flavors.
- Ripe Avocado: 1, creamy base for the sauce to add a smooth, buttery texture.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: 1/2 cup, adds tang and creaminess to the avocado sauce.
- Lime Juice: 2 tbsp freshly squeezed, adds a zesty freshness and helps balance richness.
Instructions
- Coarsely Mince the Fresh Salmon
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Begin by finely chopping or pulsing the skinless salmon in a food processor until coarsely minced. This helps create a uniform texture that binds well without becoming a paste, maintaining a pleasant bite.
- Mix the Salmon with Fresh Herbs and Seasonings
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In a large bowl, combine the minced salmon with chopped parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs or almond flour, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute all flavors evenly, ensuring each ball has a balanced taste.
- Form Salmon Balls Evenly
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Using clean hands, take about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls approximately 2 inches in diameter. Aim to make 12-14 uniform balls for consistent cooking and presentation.
- Heat Skillet and Cook Salmon Balls
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the salmon balls in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, developing a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce
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In a food processor, blend ripe avocado, Greek yogurt or sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the salmon’s smoky and herbal notes, adding freshness and richness.
- Serve and Garnish
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Arrange the cooked salmon balls on a serving platter and either drizzle the avocado sauce over them or serve it as a dip. This presentation allows guests to enjoy the bold flavors together or individually.
- Form the salmon balls just before cooking to maintain the best texture and prevent sogginess.
- Use almond flour for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Adjust seasoning lightly after mixing to your taste before forming the balls.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover salmon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve the crispy exterior. The avocado sauce is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for one day with minimal color change by covering tightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these salmon balls as a delightful appetizer at parties or alongside a crisp green salad for a light lunch. They also pair excellently with steamed vegetables or quinoa for a wholesome dinner option.
- Ensure your salmon is fresh and skinless for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t over-process the salmon in the food processor to keep the ideal consistency.
- Use fresh herbs generously to brighten the flavor and aroma of the salmon balls.
FAQs
- Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
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While fresh salmon gives the best texture and flavor, canned salmon can be used in a pinch but will result in a softer texture.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
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Simply replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs as indicated in the ingredients.
- Can I bake the salmon balls instead of frying?
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Yes, baking at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden is a healthier alternative with good results.
- Is the avocado sauce suitable for dairy-free diets?
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Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or omit it and increase avocado and lime juice for a dairy-free sauce.
- How do I store leftovers?
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Keep salmon balls refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within 2 days; avocado sauce should be stored separately for 1 day.
- Can I prepare the salmon balls ahead of time?
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You can mix the salmon mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate, but form balls right before cooking to maintain texture.
- What pairs well with these salmon balls?
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Try serving with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or your favorite roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Salmon Balls with Avocado Sauce
Equipment
- 1 food processor
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet skin removed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil for grilling
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pulse the fresh salmon fillet in a food processor until coarsely minced.
- In a mixing bowl, combine salmon, parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into 12-14 balls, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the salmon balls for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In a food processor, blend avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Serve the salmon balls with the creamy avocado sauce drizzled or scooped over them.
Notes
- Best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated.
- Form balls just before grilling for best texture.
