I’ve got to tell you about these salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce—they’re a game-changer for dinner. Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned salmon ball, crisp on the outside and tender inside, then dipping it into a cool, velvety avocado sauce that has just the right zing from lime and garlic. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to mix up your weeknight menu, this recipe strikes that perfect balance between fancy and doable. Ready to discover how simple this impressive dish actually is?
Why You’ll Love these Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
While I’m always searching for protein-packed recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor, these salmon balls have become my absolute favorite go-to dinner option.
They’re incredibly versatile – perfect for weeknight dinners, elegant enough for guests, and great as leftovers.
The creamy avocado sauce takes these tender, dill-infused bites to another level. Rich in omega-3s and healthy fats, this dish isn’t just delicious, it’s nutritious too.
Can you imagine a more perfect pairing than the warm, flaky salmon balls against the cool, velvety sauce? Trust me, even picky eaters won’t be able to resist these bite-sized morsels.
What Ingredients are in Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce?
These delicious salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce require just a handful of fresh ingredients that come together to create a flavorful, nutritious meal.
- 1 lb skinless salmon
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp chopped dill
- Salt and pepper
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
When shopping for these ingredients, I always recommend choosing the freshest salmon possible and making sure your avocado is perfectly ripe—not too firm and not too mushy—for that ideal creamy texture in the sauce.
How to Make these Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
Take 1 pound of skinless salmon and combine it with 1 egg, ¼ cup breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of chopped dill, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
Mix everything together until well combined but try not to overmix—nobody wants tough salmon balls.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Using slightly damp hands (prevents sticking, trust me on this one), gently form the salmon mixture into 1-inch balls.
You should get about 12-15 balls depending on how generous you’re feeling with each scoop.
Step 3: Arrange for Baking
Place your salmon balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them a little breathing room between each one.
They need their personal space just like we all do sometimes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the salmon balls are cooked through and slightly golden on the outside.
They should feel firm to the touch but still maintain that lovely moisture inside.
Step 5: Prepare the Avocado Sauce
While the salmon balls are baking, grab 1 ripe avocado, 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 minced garlic clove.
Blend them together with a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.
A premium stand mixer would make blending this creamy sauce even easier and more consistent.
Step 6: Chill the Sauce
Following the recipe tip, pop the sauce in the refrigerator while the salmon balls finish baking.
The temperature contrast between the warm balls and cool sauce? Absolutely divine.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your golden salmon balls on a serving plate and either drizzle the creamy avocado sauce over top or serve it alongside in a small bowl for dipping.
The vibrant green against the pink salmon creates a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
What to Serve with Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
These delightful salmon balls work perfectly for lunch or dinner, and they deserve some equally tasty companions on your plate.
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery freshness that cuts through the richness of the salmon. For something heartier, try quinoa or brown rice tossed with herbs and a touch of olive oil.
Roasted asparagus or brussels sprouts make excellent vegetable sides, especially when drizzled with a bit of balsamic glaze.
And don’t forget about drinks—a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with cucumber slices complements the flavors beautifully.
For a complete meal in minutes, warm some pita bread and add extra avocado sauce for dipping.
Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Substitutions and Variations
- Fish Flexibility: Swap salmon for canned tuna, trout, or even cod if that’s what’s in your pantry.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers.
- Dairy-Free Sauce: Substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or additional avocado.
- Herb Swaps: No dill? Try fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro for completely different flavor profiles.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or curry powder to the salmon mixture.
- Texture Boosters: Fold in finely diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or grated zucchini.
- Party-Perfect Mini Version: Shape into tiny balls and serve with toothpicks for appetizers.
- Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, microgreens, or a drizzle of sriracha for color and extra flavor.
Who knew a simple salmon ball could be so versatile?
The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to whatever you’ve got on hand.
Leftovers and Storage for these Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce
These delightful salmon balls store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The sauce, however, is a bit trickier—that avocado tends to oxidize quickly. Store it separately with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning, and it’ll last about 2 days.
For freezing, only the salmon balls are suitable candidates. Arrange them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
When reheating, warm the salmon balls in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to maintain their texture—microwaving tends to make them rubbery.
The avocado sauce is definitely best made fresh, but if you must reheat it, whisk vigorously to revive its creaminess.
Unlike many dishes, these salmon balls actually taste just as good the next day!
Final Thoughts
These Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce bring together protein-rich salmon and heart-healthy fats in perfect little packages.
The contrast between the warm, herb-flecked salmon bites and the cool, tangy avocado sauce creates a dish that feels both sophisticated and comforting.
They’re ideal for busy weeknight dinners when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen—simply prep, bake, and blend.
They also make fantastic appetizers for gatherings where you want to impress without the stress.
In a world of complicated recipes, sometimes the simplest combinations deliver the most satisfying flavors.
