These baked salmon meatballs are a tasty twist on a classic dish! They are packed with flavor, healthy ingredients, and are super easy to make. The tangy avocado sauce adds a creamy kick!
Making these meatballs is a breeze—you just mix, form, and bake. I love serving them with a fresh side salad. They make me feel like a chef, even though my kitchen is a bit of a mess! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillet is the star here. If you’re looking for an easier option, canned salmon works well too; just drain it well. For a different flavor, you can use trout or even canned tuna!
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko for its light and crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs are fine. If gluten-free is a must, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, or crushed rice cereal as a substitute.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and green onions bring freshness to the meatballs. If you don’t have parsley, any fresh herb works, such as cilantro or dill, depending on your taste. Dried herbs can substitute, too, but use less.
Egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients. If you’re vegan or allergic, try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) or one tablespoon of unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the sauce. Sour cream can be a substitute, or for a vegan version, use a plant-based yogurt. For added tang, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Not Dry?
The key to moist salmon meatballs is proper mixing and baking time. Overmixing can make them tough, so combine just enough. When forming, don’t pack them too tightly. This ensures they stay tender.
- Don’t skip the egg; it binds and provides moisture.
- Bake until golden but not overbaked—15-20 minutes is perfect. Use a meat thermometer; they should reach 145°F.
- If you like, you can add a bit of olive oil to the mixture for extra moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Tangy Avocado Sauce?
The avocado sauce should be smooth and flavorful. Start by blending the yogurt and avocado; then add lime juice and seasonings gradually. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This allows you to control the flavor.
- Make sure your avocado is ripe for the best creaminess.
- Blend until completely smooth; no chunks should remain.
- Chill the sauce for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.
How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs With A Tangy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Meatballs:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
For the Tangy Avocado Sauce:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for baking, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have savory salmon meatballs ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy later. This ensures that your salmon meatballs don’t stick!
2. Process the Salmon:
Next, take the fresh salmon fillet and chop it in a food processor until it’s finely chopped, but don’t puree it; you want some texture. Once done, transfer the salmon to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In your bowl of chopped salmon, add the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, green onions, egg, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until well combined—your hands may work best here!
4. Form the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to shape the mixture into small meatballs. Grab a handful and form them into balls about 1.5 inches wide. Place each meatball onto your prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space between each one.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes. They should be cooked through and golden brown on the outside when they’re ready.
6. Make the Tangy Avocado Sauce:
While your meatballs are baking, prepare the delicious avocado sauce! In a blender or food processor, combine the Greek yogurt, avocado, lime juice, and garlic powder. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once the meatballs are done baking, take them out and let them cool slightly. You’re now ready to serve your tasty salmon meatballs!
8. Enjoy!
Serve the baked salmon meatballs warm, either drizzled with the tangy avocado sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to completely thaw it before processing. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker results. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before mixing.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even almond flour for a gluten-free option. If using oats, consider giving them a quick blend in the food processor to create a finer texture more similar to breadcrumbs.
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover salmon meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. They also freeze well; just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tangy avocado sauce up to 1 day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To prevent browning, squeeze a little extra lime juice on the surface before sealing. Give it a quick stir before serving, as it may thicken when chilled.
