Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
These golden salmon balls are crispy on the outside, tender and savory inside, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired herbs and zesty flavor. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, they make a delicious appetizer, light lunch, or protein-packed snack.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Serves: 4 (Makes 16–18 small balls)
Ingredients:
For the Salmon Balls:
1 can (6–7 oz / ~200g) wild salmon, drained and flaked
1 egg
⅓ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional for richness)
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayo
1 small shallot or ¼ red onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Zest of ½ lemon
1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
¼ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for pan frying or brushing
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
1 ripe avocado
Juice of ½ lime or lemon
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small garlic clove, minced
2–3 tbsp water (to thin)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp chopped cilantro or dill for flavor
Instructions:
1. Make the Salmon Balls:
In a mixing bowl, combine all salmon ball ingredients.
Mix until well combined. If mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a bit more yogurt.
Roll into small balls (about 1 to 1½ inches).
2. Cook the Salmon Balls:
Pan-Fry Method:
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat.
Fry salmon balls in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and heated through.
Bake or Air-Fry Method:
Preheat oven or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange balls on a lined tray or basket, brush with oil.
Bake or air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway if needed, until golden.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or small food processor, combine all sauce ingredients.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water to thin as needed.
Taste and adjust salt, lemon/lime, or herbs.
4. Serve:
Serve salmon balls warm with the creamy avocado sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes & Tips:
Fresh salmon option: You can also use cooked fresh or leftover salmon (~1 cup flaked).
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne to the salmon balls or a jalapeno to the avocado sauce.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Refrigerate formed balls for up to 2 days or freeze them uncooked. Cook from frozen by adding 2–3 extra minutes.
Q: What goes well with this dish?
A: Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or inside lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.
Q: Can I use tuna instead of salmon?
A: Yes, canned tuna works well too, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 230
Protein: 16g
Fat: 14g
Carbs: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 320mg