Hello there! If you’re looking for a fresh and delightful dinner idea, I have just the recipe for you: baked salmon meatballs with a creamy avocado sauce! These meatballs are not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats. Seriously, they make such a fantastic meal that promises you’ll leave the table feeling satisfied and happy. Plus, they’re pretty easy to whip up, which is always a win in my book!
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon
Let’s talk about why salmon is such a superstar when it comes to our health. It’s loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Plus, salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein—perfect for keeping our energy levels up and muscles happy. Pair that with avocado, which is full of healthy fats and vitamins, and you’ve got a hitting powerhouse meal!
Adaptable Variations to Make
- Switch up the Fish: If you can’t find salmon, you can easily substitute it with canned tuna or even lean ground turkey.
- Herby Delights: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs, like dill or parsley, into the meatballs for a flavor boost!
- Spicy Spin: Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha into either the meatballs or the sauce.
- Vegan Option: For a plant-based twist, blend chickpeas with oats and spices to form the meatballs and serve with that creamy avocado sauce!
Easy Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh salmon fillets, skinned and deboned
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or use oats for a gluten-free version)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the avocado sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, add the salmon and pulse it until it’s finely chopped but not pureed. You want some texture here.
- In a bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and start to brown slightly on the outside.
- While they bake, prepare your avocado sauce by blending all the sauce ingredients together until smooth—easy peasy!
- Once the meatballs are done, serve them hot with a drizzle of that creamy avocado sauce on top. Enjoy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later!
- If you like your sauce smooth, give it a little extra time in the blender until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Pair these meatballs with a simple salad or some brown rice for a complete meal!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make these scrumptious meatballs:
- A food processor (to chop the salmon and blend the sauce)
- A mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- A measuring cup and spoons
- A blender for the avocado sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh? Yes! Just drain and flake it, and it will work perfectly for this recipe.
- How do I know when the meatballs are cooked? They should be firm to the touch and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare them the night before and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Is the avocado sauce necessary? Not at all! These meatballs are delicious on their own, but the sauce adds a lovely creaminess.
- Will these meatballs hold together well? Yes! As long as you don’t overmix the ingredients, they should hold together nicely.
So, are you ready to whip up these delicious baked salmon meatballs? I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you! If you give them a try, snap a photo and share it with me on Pinterest! Let’s spread the joy of home cooking together!
