Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a healthy and flavorful dinner option that brings together flaky, grilled salmon and a rich, creamy avocado-cilantro sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for both casual meals and elegant dinner parties. Packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and vibrant fresh herbs, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Salmon Balls:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet (skin removed)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)

For the Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce:

• 1 ripe avocado

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a thicker texture)

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, chop the salmon fillet or pulse it in a food processor until coarsely minced. Add chopped parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

2. Shape the Salmon Balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 2 inches in diameter. You should have approximately 12-14 balls.

3. Grill the Salmon Balls: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the salmon balls in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Prepare the Avocado Sauce: In a food processor, combine the avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salmon balls with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce drizzled over the top or as a dip. These are best enjoyed fresh but can also be refrigerated for leftovers.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal

• Fat: 18g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Protein: 25g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 2g

• Cholesterol: 90mg

• Sodium: 500mg

• Vitamin C: 10%

• Vitamin A: 40%

• Calcium: 20%

• Iron: 10%

The Salmon Balls: Flaky, Flavorful, and Healthy

The base of this dish is the salmon, which provides a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. By chopping or pulsing the salmon fillet into small pieces, you achieve a coarser texture that’s ideal for shaping into balls. The salmon is mixed with fresh parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, and a few key seasonings like smoked paprika and lemon zest, which enhance the natural flavors of the fish.

Smoked paprika brings a mild smoky depth to the salmon balls, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus note. Garlic and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add an aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the fish. The mixture is then shaped into balls, creating a bite-sized, portable option that’s easy to cook and enjoy.

Grilling the Salmon Balls: Golden and Crispy

To cook the salmon balls, a simple grilling or pan-searing method is used. The salmon balls are grilled in a skillet with olive oil, which ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky. Cooking the salmon balls for 3-4 minutes on each side is the perfect amount of time to ensure that they are cooked through but still tender.

The grill pan or skillet should be preheated to medium heat, allowing the oil to warm up before adding the salmon balls. As they cook, be sure to flip them carefully to ensure an even crust on all sides. This method gives the salmon balls a satisfying crunch without overcooking them, maintaining the delicate texture of the fish inside.

The Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce: Smooth and Tangy

The creamy avocado cilantro sauce is the perfect complement to the salmon balls, adding a smooth and velvety texture with a burst of fresh flavor. Avocado serves as the base of the sauce, providing a creamy consistency that balances the crispy salmon balls. The addition of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a tangy richness that enhances the overall flavor.

Fresh cilantro and garlic bring a vibrant, herbaceous quality to the sauce, while lime juice adds a refreshing citrus zing. The sauce is quick to prepare—simply blend all the ingredients together in a food processor until smooth. The result is a creamy, flavorful sauce that can be drizzled over the salmon balls or served as a dip on the side.

Serving the Salmon Balls: Fresh and Flavorful

Once the salmon balls are cooked and the avocado sauce is ready, it’s time to serve. The salmon balls can be arranged on a platter with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce drizzled over the top or served alongside as a dipping sauce. The cool, creamy sauce contrasts beautifully with the warm, crispy salmon balls, creating a delicious contrast in both texture and flavor.

These salmon balls are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in the refrigerator for leftovers. They make a great appetizer, main course, or even a snack for gatherings. Serve them with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a more substantial meal.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce offer a healthy yet indulgent way to enjoy fish. The salmon balls are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a filling meal that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful. The creamy avocado sauce adds a fresh, tangy element that enhances the richness of the salmon without overpowering it.

This dish is also versatile and easy to customize. You can experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences, or even swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour to make it gluten-free. The creamy avocado sauce can also be adjusted with extra lime or garlic to create the perfect balance of flavors.

Perfect for a Quick, Healthy Meal

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table. The salmon balls require minimal preparation and cook quickly, making them a great option for busy weeknights or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

The creamy avocado cilantro sauce is also simple to make, requiring only a few fresh ingredients and a quick blend in the food processor. The combination of these elements creates a healthy, flavorful meal that’s both filling and nutritious.

Conclusion: A Flavorful and Nutritious Meal

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce offer a delicious way to enjoy salmon while also benefiting from the healthy omega-3 fatty acids the fish provides. The flaky salmon balls, seasoned with fresh herbs and smoked paprika, pair perfectly with the creamy, tangy avocado sauce, making this dish a flavorful and satisfying choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant fresh herbs, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. So, if you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner option, give these Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce a try—you’ll love the combination of crispy, savory salmon and smooth, refreshing sauce!