Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a flavorful and healthy dinner option that combines tender salmon bites with a zesty, smooth sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Finely chop the salmon fillet or pulse it briefly in a food processor to achieve a coarse mince. In a large bowl, combine the salmon, parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into small balls about 2 inches in diameter. You should get around 12 to 14 balls depending on size.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the salmon balls for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Step 4: In a food processor, blend the avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Step 5: Serve the salmon balls with the creamy avocado sauce either drizzled over the top or as a dip on the side. Enjoy fresh for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes to the salmon mixture for some heat.
• Try baking the salmon balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes as a hands-off cooking method.

Storage

Store leftover salmon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the avocado sauce separate in its own container to prevent browning. Reheat the salmon balls gently in a skillet or oven to maintain texture. The sauce is best served fresh but can be stirred before use if stored.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Fresh salmon provides the best texture and flavor for these balls, but finely drained canned salmon can be used in a pinch. Adjust breadcrumbs as needed to maintain the right consistency.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

For a creamier avocado sauce, use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt or add a small amount of olive oil while blending. You can also add a little extra lime juice for brightness.

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 675 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12–14 salmon balls 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Delicious and healthy grilled salmon balls served with a creamy avocado cilantro sauce. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh salmon, herbs, and spices with a tangy, smooth sauce for a nutritious dinner option that is both flavorful and satisfying.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 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 richer texture)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Finely chop the salmon fillet or pulse it in a food processor until coarsely minced. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced salmon, chopped parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the Salmon Balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 2 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 12-14 balls depending on size.
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, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked salmon balls from the pan and set aside.
4. Prepare the Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce: In a food processor, combine avocado, fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice as desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the grilled salmon balls drizzled with or alongside the creamy avocado cilantro sauce. Best enjoyed fresh, though leftovers can be refrigerated.

Notes

• Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a richer sauce texture.
• Ensure salmon is fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
• Can be served as an appetizer or a main dish with a side salad.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: salmon balls, avocado sauce, healthy dinner, gluten free, grilled salmon, creamy avocado cilantro sauce, low carb, high protein