Easy Salmon Meatballs
These Easy Salmon Meatballs are a quick and healthy way to enjoy salmon in a new and exciting form! Packed with flavor from fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon, these meatballs are tender on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside. They’re great for a light dinner, appetizer, or even meal prep. Whether you’re using fresh or canned salmon, this recipe comes together in no time and is sure to be a family favorite. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides and dipping sauces.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
1 lb (450g) fresh or canned salmon (skinless and boneless)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for crispiness)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Salmon:
If using fresh salmon, cook it first. You can pan-sear, bake, or poach it. Once cooked, flake the salmon with a fork and remove any bones.
If using canned salmon, simply drain the liquid and flake the salmon into a bowl.
Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together when formed into a ball. If it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Form the Meatballs:
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs. You should get about 16-18 meatballs, depending on the size.
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).
Serve:
Serve the salmon meatballs with a side of your choice, like a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or a creamy dipping sauce (tartar sauce or garlic aioli works well!).
Tips:
For a lighter option: You can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
Flavor Variations: Add some chopped green onions or dill for extra flavor. You can also add a little bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for some spice
Nutrition Information (per serving):
Calories: 200
Fat: 10g
Saturated fat: 1.5g
Omega-3 fatty acids: 1.5g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 60mg