If you have been on the lookout for a delightful, fresh, and nourishing dish to brighten up your dinner table, look no further than the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe. This recipe perfectly combines tender, juicy salmon meatballs baked to perfection with a creamy, vibrant avocado sauce that adds just the right touch of richness and zest. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, these meatballs make for an irresistible meal that feels both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is where the magic begins. Each component plays a key role in creating the ideal balance of flavors, textures, and colors that bring this dish to life—from the savory salmon to the fresh herbs and tangy avocado sauce.
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillet (fresh or canned, flaked): The star of the show, providing moist and flavorful protein with a delicate texture.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These give the meatballs structure and a lovely lightness, keeping them tender without falling apart.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold all ingredients together perfectly during baking.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion: Adds a mild sweetness and a bit of crunch for interest.
- 1 clove garlic minced: Brings a subtle punch and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle tanginess that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshness and a pop of green color brighten the meatballs.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides an inviting citrus note that balances richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough spice to keep things interesting.
- Olive oil spray for baking: Ensures a beautiful golden crust without excess fat.
- 1 ripe avocado: For the creamy, dreamy base of the sauce.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and silkiness to the avocado sauce with a protein boost.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides richness and helps create a smooth sauce texture.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or cilantro: Delivers herbal brightness to the sauce.
- 1 small garlic clove: Infuses the sauce with subtle aromatic depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to perfect the sauce flavor.
- 2–3 tablespoons water: Used to thin the sauce to the ideal consistency.
How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Meatball Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. This mix promises meatballs that are flavorful, moist, yet sturdy enough to hold their shape.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form the salmon mixture into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil to help create a golden crust. Bake the meatballs for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping them halfway through. When done, the outside should be beautifully golden while the inside stays tender and cooked through.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While your salmon meatballs bake, it’s time to make the luscious avocado sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, your choice of fresh dill or cilantro, a small garlic clove, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is silky and smooth, adding water little by little until it reaches your preferred pourable consistency. This sauce will bring a refreshing, creamy contrast to the warm meatballs.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Serve your Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe warm, with the sauce either drizzled over the top or served on the side for dipping. Adding a few extra sprigs of herbs or a wedge of lemon can enhance the presentation and flavor. This is truly a dish that feels special yet is simple enough for any weeknight dinner.
How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation and add delightful bursts of flavor by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro. A sprinkle of lemon zest or a few lemon wedges on the side also brightens and complements the richness, making every bite more memorable.
Side Dishes
These salmon meatballs pair beautifully with light, wholesome sides such as fluffy quinoa, steamed greens like spinach or kale, or even a crisp mixed salad. Rice pilaf or roasted seasonal vegetables are also great choices that complement the freshness of the avocado sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try these meatballs served over a bed of zesty cucumber noodles or stuffed into mini pita pockets with some extra avocado sauce and crunchy slaw for a fun, handheld treat. They also work wonderfully as appetizers presented on skewers with dipping sauce on the side at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover salmon meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The avocado sauce is best kept in a sealed container with a little lemon juice added to help reduce browning and keep it fresh.
Freezing
If you want to save these meatballs for a later date, freezing is a great option. Lay the cooked, cooled meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container, where they will keep for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid reheating the avocado sauce in the microwave; instead, stir well and serve it cold or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before flaking it for the meatballs. This helps maintain the ideal texture without sogginess.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the avocado sauce?
Yes, the Greek yogurt can be swapped out for a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt to keep the sauce creamy and dairy-free without sacrificing taste.
How can I make the meatballs more crispy?
Slightly increase the olive oil spray before baking or finish them off under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning, for a deliciously crisp exterior.
Can I prepare the meatballs mixture ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare and shape the meatballs a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake, making dinner prep even easier.
What’s a good dipping sauce alternative?
If you want to switch things up, a tangy tzatziki or even a spicy harissa mayo would beautifully complement the flavors of the salmon meatballs.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that feels comforting and fresh at the same time, and the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe delivers just that in every bite. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy seafood with bright, creamy, and vibrant flavors that make mealtime exciting and satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it—it might just become your next go-to weeknight favorite!
Print
Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 16 meatballs (about 4 servings)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce offer a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make seafood dish. Tender salmon meatballs baked to perfection are paired with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce, making it a perfect main course for a nutritious weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs:
- 1 pound skinless salmon fillet (fresh or canned, flaked)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray for baking
For the Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or cilantro
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons water to thin
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped red onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, shape the salmon mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown and stay moist during baking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and thorough cooking. The meatballs should be golden and cooked through when done.
- Make the Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped fresh dill or cilantro, garlic clove, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding 2–3 tablespoons of water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the warm salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce either on the side or drizzled on top. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired for an added burst of flavor.
Notes
- These meatballs are excellent served over rice, quinoa, or mixed greens to make a complete meal.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring freshness and safety.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute the Greek yogurt in the avocado sauce with a plant-based yogurt option.
