Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

These Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a fresh and flavorful twist on classic fish cakes. I love how the tender salmon combines with breadcrumbs, herbs, and lemon for a light yet satisfying bite. The creamy avocado sauce adds richness and tang, making this dish perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s both healthy and delicious, with fresh salmon as the star. The salmon balls are baked or pan-fried to perfection, and the avocado sauce makes them irresistible. I also like how versatile they are—I can serve them on their own, with a salad, or even tucked into wraps or sandwiches.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 ripe avocado
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. I finely chop the salmon or pulse it in a food processor until minced.
3. In a bowl, I mix the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, dill or parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until combined.
4. I shape the mixture into small balls, about 1–2 tablespoons each, and place them on the baking sheet.
5. I bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon balls are cooked through and lightly golden.
6. While they bake, I prepare the sauce by blending avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
7. I serve the salmon balls warm with the avocado sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 16 salmon balls, serving 4 people. It usually takes me 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so the total time is around 35 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add finely diced onions or bell peppers to the salmon mixture for extra flavor. I also like swapping breadcrumbs for panko to make the texture lighter. For a spicier kick, I mix a little cayenne pepper into the salmon balls or add jalapeño to the avocado sauce. If I want extra freshness, I blend cilantro into the sauce instead of dill.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the salmon balls in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes until heated through. The avocado sauce is best fresh, but I keep it covered in the fridge for up to 1 day with a squeeze of lemon to prevent browning.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Yes, I can substitute canned salmon, though fresh gives the best flavor and texture.

Can I pan-fry the salmon balls instead of baking?

Yes, I fry them in a little olive oil over medium heat until golden and cooked through.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the salmon mixture and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze salmon balls?

Yes, I freeze them after baking, then reheat in the oven until warm.

What can I serve with salmon balls?

I often serve them with salad, rice, or tucked into pita bread for a full meal.

Can I make the avocado sauce dairy-free?

Yes, I swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.

How do I know when the salmon balls are cooked through?

I bake until they’re firm and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I add cheese to the mixture?

Yes, I sometimes mix in a little grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

I add chili flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeño to the avocado blend.

Conclusion

These Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are one of my favorite ways to enjoy salmon in a fun, bite-sized form. I love how they’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly paired with the fresh avocado dip. Whether I serve them as a party appetizer or a light family meal, they’re always a hit and disappear quickly.

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