Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

These Baked Salmon Meatballs are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional meatballs! Packed with nutritious salmon, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon, they are tender and flavorful. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, this dish is light, refreshing, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids from salmon.
• Flavorful & Tender: Light, flavorful meatballs with a creamy, tangy avocado sauce.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Food processor or blender (for the avocado sauce)
• Fork (for mashing the salmon)

How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a large bowl. Use a fork to mash the salmon into small pieces, removing any bones if needed.
3. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into 12-14 meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

1. Drizzle the meatballs with a little olive oil to help them crisp up during baking.
2. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).

Step 3: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce

1. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the avocado sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve the meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle the sauce over the meatballs.

What to Serve With These Salmon Meatballs:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or sweet potatoes would be great sides.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Salad: Pair with a light green salad or a cucumber and tomato salad.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients for the meatballs to keep them tender.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are fully cooked.
• Add Herbs: Feel free to add more fresh herbs like dill or chives to the meatballs or sauce for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use canned salmon for this recipe? Yes, you can use canned salmon. Just make sure to drain and flake the salmon before mixing with the other ingredients.

Can I make the avocado sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the avocado sauce up to 1 day ahead. Store it in an airtight container to prevent browning.

Can I freeze the salmon meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after baking. Freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen when ready to eat.

Conclusion:

These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a perfect balance of lightness and flavor. The tender salmon meatballs paired with the rich and creamy avocado sauce make for a satisfying, healthy meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to impress!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Meatball with Sauce):
Calories: 190 | Protein: 16g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 250mg

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