Salmon Balls with Avocado

These Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce bring together the delicate flavor of salmon with a crunchy exterior and a smooth, tangy avocado sauce that brightens every bite. They work beautifully as appetizers or a light main dish, and the creamy sauce adds a fresh touch that balances the savory goodness of the baked salmon balls.

I first made these for a casual weekend gathering and they disappeared so fast my friends asked me to bring them every time now

Gather Your Ingredients

• One pound fresh skinless salmon fillets: for tender, flaky fish flavor Cook with the freshest fish you can find for the best taste
• One cup plain breadcrumbs: as a binder that keeps the salmon balls from falling apart Using fresh or panko breadcrumbs can improve texture
• One large egg: to hold ingredients together ensuring a firm but moist bite
• Two tablespoons fresh dill or parsley chopped: for bright herbal notes Dill gives a subtle anise-like flavor while parsley adds earthiness
• Two tablespoons lemon juice: to enhance freshness and balance richness Use freshly squeezed for optimum zing
• One ripe avocado: for creamy sauce Choose one that yields to gentle pressure but isn’t mushy for smoothest texture
• Half cup plain Greek yogurt: adds tang and creaminess without overwhelming the avocado flavor
• Half teaspoon garlic powder: for a gentle savory kick without raw garlic sharpness
• Salt and pepper: to taste which are essential to bring out all flavors vividly

How to Make It

Preheat oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare salmon:

Flake the salmon into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. This breaks down the fish so it blends evenly with other ingredients.

Mix ingredients:

Add the breadcrumbs, egg, fresh herbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until everything is combined well but avoid over mixing to keep the texture light.

Shape balls:

Shape the mixture into small balls about one inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to keep them from sticking.

Bake salmon balls:

Bake the salmon balls for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and have a slight crisp on the outside. They should feel firm to the touch but still moist inside.

Prepare sauce:

While the salmon balls bake, prepare the creamy avocado sauce. Combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, an extra splash of lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until perfectly smooth.

Serve:

Serve the warm salmon balls drizzled or dipped in the creamy avocado sauce for a refreshing contrast.

My favorite ingredient here has to be the dill. It adds this wonderful herbaceous brightness that cut through the richness of the fish and avocado. I recall serving these at a family brunch where even my most finicky relatives couldn’t help but reach for seconds. The combination hits just the right notes every time.

Flavor Boosters

Storage Tips Store leftover salmon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a low oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness. The avocado sauce is best kept separate and consumed within one day for freshness. Ingredient Substitutions If salmon is not available, canned wild salmon can work in a pinch though texture will differ slightly. Fresh dill can be swapped with fresh tarragon or basil depending on your herb preference. Greek yogurt may be replaced with sour cream for a similar tangy effect.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these as finger food with toothpicks for casual parties or alongside a crisp green salad for a light meal. The avocado sauce also makes a great spread on sandwiches or wraps with the salmon balls tucked inside.

Creative Twists

In warmer months, try adding finely chopped fresh cucumber or radish to the salmon mixture for extra crunch. In cooler seasons, a little bit of smoked paprika mixed into the balls complements the warming flavors nicely. Fresh herbs can be varied with seasonal picks like chives or cilantro.

These salmon balls balance texture and flavor beautifully, making them a reliable hit for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of salmon is best for baking?

Skinless, fresh salmon fillets work best for even baking and easy flaking, providing tender texture.

→ How is the avocado sauce prepared?

The avocado sauce blends ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

→ Can these salmon balls be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and bake just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ What herbs enhance the flavor of salmon balls?

Fresh dill or parsley adds bright, aromatic notes that complement the salmon’s natural taste.

→ Is baking preferred over frying for this dish?

Baking yields a crispy exterior with less oil, highlighting the salmon’s delicate texture in a healthier way.