These healthy and flavorful salmon meatballs are oven-baked to perfection and paired with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce. Perfect for a light dinner, appetizer, or meal prep!
Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped or ground
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tangy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1-2 tbsp water (to thin the sauce, if needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, green onions, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and slightly golden.
- Make the Avocado Sauce:
- While the meatballs are baking, blend the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor until smooth.
- Add water, one tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve the salmon meatballs warm, drizzled with the tangy avocado sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a light meal.
- Serve over quinoa, rice, or zucchini noodles for a hearty dinner.
- Use the meatballs as a protein-packed filling for wraps or pita bread.
Tips:
- If using canned salmon, drain and remove the bones before mixing.
- Add a touch of spice by mixing red pepper flakes or cayenne into the meatball mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.