Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce: A Delightful Seafood Appetizer 🐟🥑✨
1. Introduction
Discover the irresistible flavor of Salmon Balls paired with a silky creamy avocado sauce. This innovative recipe combines tender salmon patties with a luscious, healthy dip, making it perfect for dinner parties, healthy snacks, or a sophisticated appetizer. With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, this dish stands out as a seafood favorite that satisfies both the palate and the eye.
2. Ingredients for Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Preparation of Salmon Balls
1. Prepare the Salmon
Start by finely chopping or pulsing the fresh salmon in a food processor until it reaches a coarse, ground consistency. Be careful not to over-process; you want a texture suitable for forming into balls.
2. Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Form Salmon Balls
Using damp hands, shape the mixture into small, evenly-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches diameter). Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake the Salmon Balls
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, for a healthier option, cook in an air fryer like the Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 at 400°F for about 10 minutes.
Preparation of Creamy Avocado Sauce
1. Prepare the Avocado
Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Blend the Ingredients
Add Greek yogurt or sour cream, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Serve
Pour the creamy avocado sauce into a serving bowl and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for added flavor and color.
4. Serving Tips and Presentation
Arrange the salmon balls on a platter and drizzle with a generous amount of the creamy avocado sauce. Garnish with additional herbs or lemon wedges for an appealing presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with fresh salad greens or toasted baguette slices, making it an excellent addition to your dinner menu or a party spread.
5. Storage Tips
Keep leftover salmon balls and avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness. To reheat, gently warm the salmon balls in an oven or air fryer. For the sauce, stir well before serving again.
6. Additional Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Enhance your Salmon Balls experience by serving with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light cucumber salad. The creamy avocado sauce complements the rich flavors of the salmon perfectly, making this dish ideal for health-conscious diners or seafood lovers.
For variety, consider customizing the sauce with added hot sauce or chopped tomatoes to add a spicy twist.
7. FAQs about Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
What are the best ways to cook salmon for Salmon Balls?
Fresh salmon can be baked, poached, or pan-seared before grinding or chopping. For the easiest preparation, baking or using an air fryer ensures even cooking and minimal fuss since the salmon is fully cooked before forming the balls.
Can I make Salmon Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon mixture and shape the balls in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or frying. The same applies to the avocado sauce, which is best prepared fresh but can be kept refrigerated for a day.
Is the creamy avocado sauce suitable for dairy-free diets?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt to make the sauce dairy-free without compromising on creaminess.
What are some healthy substitutions for breadcrumbs?
Instead of breadcrumbs, use ground almonds, crushed oats, or gluten-free alternatives to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
8. Final Thoughts
This Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seafood with a healthy, flavorful twist. Whether for an appetizer, snack, or main course, the combination of tender salmon and rich avocado creates a memorable dish that is sure to impress family and guests alike. Don’t forget to explore more seafood recipes and creative ways to serve salmon on our recipe collection.
9. Conclusion
Incorporate these Salmon Balls with creamy avocado sauce into your culinary repertoire for a nutritious and delicious meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish offers a gourmet experience in the comfort of your home. Elevate your seafood dishes by trying different dipping sauces or side accompaniments, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors that make this recipe a standout choice.
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Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (with substitutions)
Description
Enjoy the flavorful and healthy Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce, a perfect seafood appetizer that combines tender salmon patties with a rich, smooth avocado dip. This delightful dish is ideal for dinner parties, healthy snacks, or sophisticated starters, offering vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients that impress every palate.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Finely chop or pulse the fresh salmon in a food processor until coarse ground.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Shape the mixture into small, evenly-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches diameter) using damp hands. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, or cook in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes.
- For the sauce, cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop flesh into a blender or food processor.
- Add Greek yogurt or sour cream, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper, then blend until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into a serving bowl and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.
Notes
- Ensure not to over-process the salmon; a coarse texture is ideal for shaping into balls.
- Adjust seasoning and flavors according to taste preferences.
- Serve immediately or reheat the salmon balls in an oven or air fryer for best results.
- The avocado sauce can be prepared in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Seafood