Mediterranean Dishes

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

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.