Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce: A Delicious and Healthy Dish

If you’re looking for a delightful, nutritious meal that combines the rich flavors of salmon with the creamy goodness of avocado, look no further than these Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce. Not only is this dish packed with protein and healthy fats, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these salmon meatballs are sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the details of the recipe and explore why this dish is not just delicious but also offers numerous health benefits.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Salmon Meatballs:

• 500g fresh salmon, skin removed and finely chopped: Salmon is the star ingredient in this dish. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon promotes heart health, supports brain function, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Chopping the salmon finely ensures that the meatballs will hold together well.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help to bind the meatball mixture together, giving the meatballs their desired texture and structure. You can opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs for an added nutritional boost.
• 1 egg: Eggs are another important binding agent, ensuring that the meatballs hold their shape. Eggs also add a bit of moisture and richness to the mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the meatballs with a subtle yet noticeable flavor, adding a touch of warmth and complexity to the dish. It also brings numerous health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness and color to the meatballs. Parsley is also packed with antioxidants and vitamin K, making it a healthy addition.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: The acidity of the lemon juice brightens the flavors of the salmon and other ingredients, giving the meatballs a balanced and zesty taste.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy depth to the meatballs, complementing the richness of the salmon and creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: The smoked paprika imparts a subtle smoky flavor to the meatballs, enhancing the overall taste. It also adds a lovely warm hue to the meatballs.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: These essential seasonings allow you to fine-tune the flavor of the meatballs, ensuring they’re just right for your palate.

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

• 1 large avocado, peeled and pitted: Avocado is the perfect base for this creamy sauce, providing healthy monounsaturated fats and a smooth, buttery texture. It’s also rich in vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as folate, which makes it a nutrient-dense addition to the meal.
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the sauce, while also contributing protein and probiotics for a healthy gut. It helps to balance the richness of the avocado with a lighter, fresher taste.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Lime juice not only adds a refreshing citrus flavor but also prevents the avocado from browning, keeping the sauce vibrant and fresh.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: The garlic in the sauce mirrors the garlic in the meatballs, creating a harmonious flavor throughout the dish. It adds a bit of spice and depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped: Cilantro brings a burst of freshness and brightness to the sauce, perfectly complementing the creamy texture of the avocado.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: These final touches allow you to adjust the seasoning of the sauce to your liking.

Directions

Preparing the Salmon Meatballs:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature ensures that the meatballs will bake evenly, cooking through without drying out.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step prevents the meatballs from sticking to the sheet and makes cleanup a breeze.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients until they are fully incorporated. The goal is to create a well-combined mixture that’s easy to shape into meatballs.
4. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. The size ensures they cook evenly in the oven, while also being perfect for bite-sized servings.
5. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
6. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake. The meatballs are ready when they are firm to the touch and cooked through. The salmon should be tender, moist, and flavorful, with a slightly crisp exterior.

Making the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. The key here is to blend until you achieve a velvety consistency that’s easy to drizzle or dip.
2. Adjust the seasoning to taste. If you prefer a tangier sauce, you can add a bit more lime juice. For a more garlicky flavor, feel free to increase the garlic content.

Serving Suggestions

Once your salmon meatballs are baked and the avocado sauce is ready, it’s time to serve this delicious meal. The salmon meatballs can be drizzled with the creamy avocado sauce for a beautiful presentation, or the sauce can be served on the side as a dip for a more casual dining experience. You can garnish the dish with extra parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

These meatballs are perfect as a main course, paired with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. They also work wonderfully as an appetizer for a dinner party or family gathering. The creamy avocado sauce adds a luxurious touch, making the dish feel indulgent while still being nutritious.

Health Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. It’s also high in protein, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth. 

Avocado offers healthy fats that are good for your heart and help keep you full and satisfied. It’s also rich in fiber and essential vitamins, making it a superfood in its own right.

Greek yogurt adds probiotics to the dish, which promote a healthy digestive system, while also contributing protein and calcium.

Garlic, parsley, and cilantro provide antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce is a versatile dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the health benefits of salmon and avocado in one delicious meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its combination of rich, savory flavors and creamy, tangy sauce, every bite is a delight. Enjoy!

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