Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with these scrumptious Salmon Balls paired with a creamy avocado sauce! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, these flavorful bites are not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make. Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden-brown ball of tender salmon, bursting with flavor, and then dipping it into a rich, velvety avocado sauce. This dish is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon, skinless and boneless
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 avocado, ripe
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 salmon balls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the fresh salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped green onion, cilantro, minced garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well blended and the mixture holds together.
- Form small balls from the salmon mixture, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- Bake the salmon balls in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a lovely golden brown color. You want them to be tender on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside.
- While the salmon balls are baking, prepare the creamy avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy; this should be a luscious dip!
- Once the salmon balls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- Serve the warm salmon balls drizzled with the creamy avocado sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping. If you like a little kick, garnish with red pepper flakes!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the salmon mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Dill, parsley, or a hint of lemon zest can work wonderfully.
- If you want to make this dish even quicker, you can use canned salmon instead of fresh. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing.
- These salmon balls make for great leftovers; just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days!
Cooking Techniques
Making salmon balls is all about mixing and baking. Ensure your salmon is finely chopped so that it combines well with the other ingredients, providing the perfect texture. Baking rather than frying keeps these salmon balls light and healthy while still allowing for a satisfying crispness. The creamy avocado sauce is effortlessly blended, making it a quick and simple addition that enhances the dish beautifully!
FAQ
- Can I freeze these salmon balls? Yes, you can! Just freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What can I serve with salmon balls? These delicious bites pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even inside a wrap for a light meal.
Conclusion
These Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a nutritious and delightful way to enjoy seafood. They are versatile enough for an appetizer or as a main dish, making them a great addition to your culinary repertoire. Gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy a burst of flavor that brings everyone to the table!