If you’re looking for a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, the Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. This delightful blend brings together tender, flavorful salmon meatballs paired with a silky, luscious avocado sauce that adds freshness and a creamy texture without overwhelming the palate. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or aiming to impress friends with a vibrant, nutrient-packed appetizer, this recipe offers a perfect balance of bright herbs, citrus notes, and satisfying richness. It’s not only simple to make but also a tasty way to enjoy the goodness of salmon in a fun, approachable form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe, the ingredient list is refreshingly straightforward, but each component plays a vital role. From fresh herbs to whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, each adds to the texture, aroma, or flavor, resulting in that perfectly balanced bite you’ll crave again and again.
- 1 lb cooked salmon (flaked): The star ingredient providing rich flavor and tender texture.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the binder to hold the meatballs together.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill: Brings a fresh, slightly grassy flavor that brightens the salmon.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Offers an herbaceous note and beautiful color.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Injects a gentle tang and complexity.
- ½ tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat to round out the seasoning.
- ½ cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs: Provides structure and light crunch.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances richness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing): Helps the meatballs brown beautifully in the oven.
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted: Creates the base for the creamy, dreamy sauce.
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and creaminess to the avocado sauce.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (for sauce): Keeps the sauce fresh and vibrant.
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for sauce): Gives the sauce a subtle kick of flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauce): Adds silkiness and balances the sauce.
- 2 tbsp water (as needed to thin): Adjusts the sauce consistency to your liking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to perfect the sauce.
How to Make Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to make cleanup easy and prevent the salmon meatballs from sticking. This step ensures an even bake and beautifully golden crust on your meatballs.
Step 2: Mix the Salmon Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked cooked salmon, egg, minced garlic, chopped dill, parsley, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and whole wheat panko breadcrumbs. Stir gently until everything is just incorporated—overmixing could make the meatballs dense instead of tender. This mixture forms the flavorful base of your meatballs, balancing freshness, texture, and savory notes perfectly.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatballs
Shape the salmon mixture into approximately 1½-inch meatballs, rolling each carefully to hold together without compression. Place them spaced evenly on your prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with olive oil. This helps them develop a crisp, golden exterior as they bake. Pop them into the oven for 15 to 17 minutes, or until firm and slightly browned. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing by this step!
Step 4: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While your meatballs are baking, whip up the sauce by blending together the ripe avocado, plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and water in a blender or food processor. Blend until wonderfully smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce’s vibrancy and creaminess are the perfect foil to the herby, rustic meatballs.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your warm salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce either spooned generously on top or as a dipping companion on the side. This versatility lets you enjoy each bite exactly how you like it, whether dipped or drizzled. Garnish with fresh lemon zest or extra herbs for a bright finishing touch that makes the dish pop.
How to Serve Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley sprinkled on top add an inviting green freshness, while a few twists of lemon zest brighten the entire plate. These simple touches not only enhance visual appeal but amplify the layered flavors of the dish, making it feel restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair your salmon meatballs with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad, quinoa salad with citrus vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables. Alternatively, cooked couscous or whole-grain rice work beautifully to soak up every bit of the creamy avocado sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or appetizer setup, serve the salmon meatballs on skewers with small dollops of avocado sauce. You can also use them tucked into mini pita pockets with crunchy slaw for a fun handheld option. Presentation can be playful or elegant—both complement this dish wonderfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon meatballs and avocado sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate preserves its fresh texture, preventing it from browning or becoming watery.
Freezing
Salmon meatballs freeze well if pre-baked and cooled completely. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm before transferring to a resealable freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. The avocado sauce, however, is best made fresh as freezing can alter its creamy texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to retain their texture. Re-stir the avocado sauce before serving or prepare a fresh batch for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use raw salmon instead of cooked salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use raw salmon carefully, but be sure to cook the meatballs thoroughly during baking. Using cooked salmon is easier and safer, especially if you have leftover salmon on hand.
Is it necessary to use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs?
While whole wheat panko adds a nice texture and a slight nutty flavor, you can substitute with regular panko or even crushed crackers depending on what you have available.
Can I make the creamy avocado sauce vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative or extra avocado to keep the sauce rich and creamy without dairy.
How spicy is the dish? Can it be made spicier?
This Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe is mild and flavorful but not spicy. If you love heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mix or a drizzle of hot sauce to the avocado sauce.
What is the best way to reheat leftover meatballs without drying them out?
The oven reheating method is best to maintain moisture and texture. Cover loosely with foil and warm slowly to avoid drying, or reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe, it’s going to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s a beautiful dish that feels fancy but comes together easily, with fresh, wholesome ingredients that nourish and excite your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or entertaining friends, these salmon meatballs with that irresistible creamy avocado sauce will bring joy to the table every time. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a scrumptious, colorful meal!
Print
Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce offer a delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Flaked cooked salmon is mixed with fresh herbs, garlic, and whole wheat breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection. Served alongside a smooth and tangy avocado sauce made with Greek yogurt and lemon juice, this recipe is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal that combines protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Salmon Meatballs
- 1 lb cooked salmon (flaked)
- 1 large egg
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp water (as needed to thin)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix salmon meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the flaked cooked salmon, egg, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill and parsley, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, ground black pepper, lemon juice, and whole wheat panko breadcrumbs. Stir everything together gently until just combined to maintain texture.
- Form and bake meatballs: Shape the mixture into approximately 1½-inch meatballs and arrange them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil to help them brown nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and golden brown.
- Make avocado sauce: While the meatballs bake, prepare the creamy avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and water. Blend until the sauce is smooth, adding extra water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the salmon meatballs warm with the creamy avocado sauce either on the side for dipping or drizzled on top. Optionally, garnish with lemon zest or additional chopped herbs for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use cooked salmon that is flaked finely to ensure meatballs hold together well.
- Whole wheat panko adds a nice texture and fiber to the meatballs but regular panko or breadcrumbs can be substituted.
- Adjust water in avocado sauce to achieve desired creaminess.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or avocado sauce.
- These meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
