Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant twist on classic seafood dishes, these Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce are an absolute game-changer. They’re wonderfully light but packed with flavor, boasting tender salmon meatballs baked to juicy perfection, paired with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce that’s both refreshing and comforting. This dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both elegant and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Once you try these meatballs, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again to wow your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward creating those luscious Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce. Each component plays a special role, contributing to the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color.

• 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped: The star of the show, fresh salmon gives the meatballs a rich, delicate flavor and flaky texture.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These add structure and help the meatballs hold together without being heavy.
• 1 egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a natural binder to unite the ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the meatballs with a fresh, herbal note and adds a pop of green.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth of flavor without overpowering the salmon.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides a gentle smoky tone and beautiful color.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking): Keeps the meatballs moist and promotes a lovely golden-finish.
• 1 ripe avocado: The base of the creamy sauce, delivering richness and smoothness.
• 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and silky texture to complement the avocado.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings brightness and balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Offers a fresh bite to enliven the avocado sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the avocado sauce just right.

How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce

Step 1: Prep Oven and Baking Sheet

Before diving into mixing, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing your baking sheet with olive oil or a nonstick spray will ensure your salmon meatballs slide off easily after baking without sticking, making clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together until just combined. It’s important not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 3: Shape and Arrange the Meatballs

Form the salmon mixture into small meatballs, roughly the size of a tablespoon. Placing them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet allows air to circulate during cooking, ensuring they bake evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Lightly drizzle or brush the meatballs with olive oil before popping them in the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re firm to the touch and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This step guarantees perfectly cooked salmon with a lovely golden finish.

Step 5: Prepare the Avocado Sauce

While the meatballs bake, whip together the avocado sauce. Blend the ripe avocado, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until beautifully smooth and creamy. This sauce will add a cool, luscious layer that elevates the entire dish.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve the warm salmon meatballs with a generous drizzle of your fresh avocado sauce. If you want to add extra flair, sprinkle with chopped parsley for that perfect pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce

Garnishes

Sprinkling additional fresh parsley or cilantro adds a vibrant green contrast and complements the herbaceous notes already present in the meatballs. A little lemon zest is another fantastic option for adding brightness right before serving.

Side Dishes

These salmon meatballs pair beautifully with light, fresh sides like a crisp cucumber salad, roasted asparagus, or fluffy quinoa. For a cozy comfort meal, creamy mashed potatoes or herbed rice make excellent companions, getting soaked up with that luscious avocado sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce on a bed of mixed greens for a casual, healthy bowl. Alternatively, skewer them with toothpicks for a fun appetizer platter or nestle them in soft pita pockets with crunchy slaw and a drizzle of sauce for a flavorful handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three days, making them perfect for quick lunches or an easy dinner on busy nights.

Freezing

These meatballs freeze wonderfully. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to three months, ready to thaw overnight and reheat whenever cravings hit.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the meatballs in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. The avocado sauce is best served fresh, so prepare a small batch to enjoy alongside your reheated meatballs or store it separately in the fridge for up to two days.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

While fresh salmon gives the best texture and flavor for Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce, canned salmon can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Is it necessary to bake the meatballs or can I pan-fry them?

Baking is preferred here because it’s a hands-off method that keeps the meatballs tender and moist. However, if you want a crispier exterior, pan-frying them in a bit of olive oil is an excellent alternative.

Can I make the avocado sauce vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the sour cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut or cashew cream to keep the sauce creamy and delicious while catering to vegan preferences.

What other herbs work well in the meatballs?

Fresh dill or chives make wonderful additions, enhancing the salmon’s natural flavors with their mild, aromatic qualities. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!

How do I tell when the salmon meatballs are fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer ensuring the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C). They should be firm and springy to the touch, with no translucency in the center.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce are an absolute delight—flavorful, nutritious, and simple to make. Whether you’re serving them up for a family dinner, impressing guests, or treating yourself to something special, this recipe offers a perfect balance of taste and texture. I promise, you’ll fall in love with the fresh, creamy avocado sauce paired with tender, juicy salmon meatballs. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to recipes in no time!

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