Baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce

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Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce: A Nutritious Gourmet Delight

Baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce are a wholesome and flavorful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the velvety smoothness of avocado. This recipe is perfect for health-conscious food lovers who appreciate nutritious yet indulgent meals. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or alongside a fresh salad, these meatballs are sure to impress.

History of Salmon Meatballs

Fish meatballs have a long history in various cuisines worldwide, from Scandinavian fish cakes to Mediterranean seafood koftas. Salmon, revered for its nutritional profile and robust flavor, became a popular choice for meatballs in modern fusion cuisine. Adding avocado sauce brings a creamy and healthy twist inspired by Latin American culinary traditions.

Benefits of Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce

  1. Rich in Omega-3s: Salmon is an excellent source of heart-healthy fats.
  2. Packed with Nutrients: Avocados provide vitamins, minerals, and healthy monounsaturated fats.
  3. Low-Calorie and High-Protein: A great choice for maintaining a balanced diet.
  4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
  5. Versatile: Pairs well with various sides, from roasted vegetables to zoodles.

Ingredients

For the Salmon Meatballs:

Salmon Fillet: 1 pound, skinless and finely chopped or ground

Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (or almond flour for gluten-free)

Egg: 1 large

Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

Green Onion: 2 stalks, finely chopped

Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped

Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon

Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

Ripe Avocado: 1 large

Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup (or a dairy-free alternative)

Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons

Garlic: 1 clove

Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)

Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon

Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

Water: 2–3 tablespoons (to thin sauce, as needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Meatballs

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, green onion, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until the ingredients are well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  4. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs (approximately 12–15 meatballs) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

  1. Bake the salmon meatballs for 15–18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly golden.
  2. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while preparing the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cilantro (if using), olive oil, salt, and 2 tablespoons of water.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  1. Arrange the baked salmon meatballs on a serving plate and drizzle with the creamy avocado sauce.
  2. Garnish with extra dill, cilantro, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 4 Meatballs with Sauce)

Calories: 320

Protein: 25g

Fat: 20g

Carbohydrates: 10g

Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 2g

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1.5g

Who Loves Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce?

  1. Health Enthusiasts: High in protein and healthy fats, this dish is perfect for fitness-focused individuals.
  2. Seafood Lovers: Salmon provides a rich and satisfying flavor.
  3. Busy Cooks: Easy to prepare and bake, these meatballs are a time-saving option for dinner.
  4. Foodies: The creamy avocado sauce adds a gourmet touch to the dish.
  5. Families: Kid-friendly and versatile, these meatballs can be served in various ways.

Conclusion

Baked salmon meatballs with creamy avocado sauce are a modern twist on traditional meatball recipes. Combining health benefits with gourmet flavors, this dish is ideal for casual meals or special occasions. Its simplicity, paired with its rich taste and nutritional profile, ensures that it will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a fan of healthy, vibrant dishes, these meatballs are sure to delight your palate and impress your guests.

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