Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Delicious and healthy Salmon Balls served with a creamy avocado cilantro sauce. These flavorful salmon balls are seasoned with fresh herbs, garlic, and smoked paprika, then grilled to perfection. Paired with a zesty and creamy avocado cilantro sauce, this dish is perfect as an appetizer or a wholesome main course.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon Balls:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet (skin removed)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
For the Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer texture)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut the salmon fillet into small chunks and place in a food processor. Pulse until coarsely chopped but not pureed, maintaining some texture.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon with parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well blended.
- Form the Salmon Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the salmon balls on a plate or tray.
- Prepare for Grilling: Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon balls, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Grill the Salmon Balls: Cook the salmon balls for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to gently turn them to avoid breaking.
- Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Plate the grilled salmon balls and drizzle or serve with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce on the side. Garnish with extra cilantro or lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can bake the salmon balls in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes as an alternative to grilling.
- Ensure the salmon is fresh and high quality for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the lime juice and garlic in the sauce according to your taste preferences.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; it may darken slightly due to the avocado.
Keywords: Salmon balls, Avocado sauce, Healthy appetizer, Gluten-free, Grilled seafood, Creamy cilantro sauce
