Creamy Avocado Salmon Balls: A Delectable Seafood Delight

Craving a delicious and nutritious dish that will wow your taste buds? Look no further than these flavorful Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce! Packed with fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, a hint of smoked paprika, and a touch of garlic, these salmon balls are a delightful twist on traditional fish recipes. Pair them with a velvety avocado cilantro sauce that brings a perfect balance of moisture and zing to every bite.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner option or a show-stopping appetizer for entertaining guests, these salmon balls are sure to impress. The recipe is simple yet versatile, making it easy to adapt for gluten-free diets or richer textures. Plus, with the vibrant colors and gourmet flavors, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in a meal that’s both healthy and indulgent with these Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce.

Quick Benefits

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• High in omega 3 fatty acids for heart health
• Perfect for meal prep and versatile serving options
• Can be made gluten-free with a simple swap

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Avocado Salmon Balls: A Delectable Seafood Delight Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Simple ingredients with gourmet flavor
• Perfect for meal prep and versatile serving options
• Adaptable for gluten-free diets
• Appeals to both kids and adults for a family-friendly meal
• High in omega-3 fatty acids for heart health
• Great for batch cooking as they can be made ahead and reheated
• Works as an appetizer or main dish for various occasions
• Fresh herbs add brightness and complexity
• Transform leftovers into different meals like pitas, bowls, or appetizers
• Kids love them as salmon nuggets with a fun dipping sauce
• Tips for enhancing the recipe with butter, broiling, and chilling the mixture
• Variations like almond flour for gluten-free, sour cream for a richer sauce, and herb substitutions

Ingredients for Creamy Avocado Salmon Balls: A Delectable Seafood Delight

For the Salmon Balls

• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil, for grilling
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free option
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

For the Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce

• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream for a richer texture
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 ripe avocado

Pro Tips for Creamy Avocado Salmon Balls: A Delectable Seafood Delight

To make these salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce, start by chilling the salmon mixture for 30 minutes before forming the balls to make handling easier and improve the texture. Consider grating frozen butter into the mixture for extra richness and moisture without adding liquid. For a crispier exterior, broil the salmon balls for the final 2 minutes of cooking time to achieve a delightful texture contrast.

For a gluten-free version, replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour. Store any leftover salmon balls and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, bake them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. Sour cream can be used instead of Greek yogurt for a richer, tangier sauce. If cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, fresh dill or chives make excellent alternatives for both the sauce and salmon mixture, providing a unique twist to the flavors.

How to Make Creamy Avocado Salmon Balls: A Delectable Seafood Delight

Step 1: Step 01

Chop the salmon fillet finely or pulse in a food processor until coarsely minced. Combine the minced salmon with parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir until ingredients are well mixed.

Step 2: Step 02

Form small portions of the mixture into 2-inch diameter balls, making approximately 12-14 balls.

Step 3: Step 03

In a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook the salmon balls for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Step 04

In a food processor, blend avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice if desired.

Step 5: Step 05

Serve the salmon balls with the avocado cilantro sauce, either drizzled on top or as a dipping sauce. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate any leftovers.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and enjoyed your delicious Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce, proper storage is key to preserving their freshness. Store any leftover salmon balls and the avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon balls can be kept for up to 3 days, ensuring they maintain their flavor and texture. To reheat, it is recommended to warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving to prevent them from becoming tough. For the avocado sauce, cover the surface with plastic wrap pressed directly against it to prevent browning. Just before serving any remaining sauce, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to revive its brightness.

To make the most of your leftover salmon balls, consider various serving options throughout the week. Transform them into a Mediterranean-style lunch by placing them in warm pita pockets with chopped cucumber and tomato. Incorporate them into grain bowls with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of the avocado sauce for a wholesome meal. For an elegant appetizer, skewer each ball with toothpicks and serve alongside the sauce for dipping at your next gathering. Another delightful idea is to serve them over zucchini noodles dressed with a light lemon olive oil dressing to create a refreshing and satisfying dish. Experiment with different presentations to keep mealtime exciting and enjoyable.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free option, swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour in the salmon balls mixture. This substitution will still provide the necessary texture and binding while catering to dietary restrictions.

For a richer sauce, you can replace the Greek yogurt with sour cream. Sour cream will add a tangier flavor and a creamier texture to the avocado cilantro sauce, enhancing its richness.

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use fresh dill or chives as alternatives in both the creamy avocado sauce and the salmon mixture. These herbs will provide a different flavor profile while still maintaining the freshness and vibrancy that herbs bring to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these flavorful salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce as a unique and elegant appetizer at your next gathering. Skewer each ball with a decorative toothpick and arrange them on a platter, accompanied by a bowl of the velvety avocado cilantro sauce for dipping. Your guests will love the combination of fresh flavors and the convenient bite-sized portions, perfect for mingling and enjoying delicious bites.

For a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, try serving these tender salmon balls over a bed of zucchini noodles tossed in a light lemon olive oil dressing. The bright, citrusy flavors of the noodles complement the herbaceous salmon balls beautifully, creating a wholesome and flavorful meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

FAQs for Creamy Avocado Salmon Balls: A Delectable Seafood Delight

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free version of the salmon balls.

How should I store leftover salmon balls and sauce?

Store leftover salmon balls and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I bake the salmon balls instead of grilling?

Yes, bake them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.

Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for the sauce?

Yes, sour cream works well if you prefer a richer, tangier sauce.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed diving into the culinary delights of making Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce! This recipe truly showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a gourmet experience that’s not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, an impressive appetizer, or a flavorful addition to your meal prep lineup, these salmon balls have got you covered.

Remember, the key to success lies in the freshness of your ingredients and the love you put into the cooking process. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! From adjusting the herbs to suit your taste buds to exploring different serving options, there’s plenty of room to experiment and tailor this dish to your preferences.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the flavors of salmon, herbs, and creamy avocado sauce dance on your taste buds. Embrace the joy of cooking and sharing delicious meals with your loved ones. Cheers to many more memorable culinary adventures with Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce!