Description
This recipe features tender baked salmon meatballs paired with a smooth and creamy avocado sauce, creating a delicious and healthy seafood dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. The combination of fresh salmon, Parmesan, and fragrant herbs baked to perfection is complemented by a zesty, lime-infused avocado dip that adds a refreshing twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Meatballs
- 1 pound fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, flake the fresh salmon fillets using a fork. Add the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together gently until fully combined without overworking the mixture.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using your hands or a small scoop. Arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Olive Oil and Bake: Lightly brush the tops of the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown beautifully. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden on the outside.
- Make Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and water in a food processor or blender. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the water quantity to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the warm baked salmon meatballs and either drizzle with the creamy avocado sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the meatballs just before serving.
- These salmon meatballs pair wonderfully when served over quinoa, rice, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
