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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
