Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce: A Nutritious and Delicious Start to Your Day

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These baked salmon meatballs are a flavorful, protein-packed alternative to traditional meat-based meatballs. They’re easy to prepare, loaded with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and complemented by a creamy avocado sauce that adds a refreshing balance. Whether you serve them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these meatballs are an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients

For the Salmon Meatballs:

• 1 pound fresh or canned salmon, flaked
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking or greasing)

For the Avocado Sauce:

• 1 ripe avocado
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Salmon

• If using fresh salmon, bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, then flake it with a fork. If using canned salmon, drain well and remove any large bones.

2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
• Stir until well mixed and the ingredients form a cohesive mixture. If too dry, add a teaspoon of olive oil; if too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

3. Shape and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.
• Roll the salmon mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
• Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until firm and golden brown.

4. Prepare the Avocado Sauce

• While the meatballs bake, blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
• Add water gradually until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Plate the baked salmon meatballs and drizzle with the avocado sauce.
• Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or on top of whole grains like quinoa or rice.

Variations and Additions

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mix.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt or omit the yogurt from the sauce.
• Low-Carb: Swap the panko breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
• Herb Upgrade: Try adding fresh dill or cilantro to enhance the flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12–15 meatballs (serves 3–4)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well-combined and not too dry. The egg and breadcrumbs help bind everything together.

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Yes! Canned salmon works great; just be sure to drain it well and remove any large bones.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with a fresh salad, quinoa, rice, roasted veggies, or inside a wrap.

Can I make the avocado sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent browning.

Can I air-fry these salmon meatballs?

Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Try almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or ground flaxseeds for a gluten-free option.

How do I make this recipe egg-free?

Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) as a binder.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if you replace breadcrumbs with almond flour and use a dairy-free yogurt for the sauce.

Can I use a different fish?

Yes! Tuna or cod can work, but salmon provides the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat these without drying them out?

Oven reheating at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes works best, but you can also microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Conclusion

These baked salmon meatballs with avocado sauce are a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any meal. Packed with nutrients, full of flavor, and easy to customize, they’re a great way to enjoy salmon in a new way. Try them for your next meal and enjoy a protein-packed, omega-3-rich treat!

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