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If you’re searching for a dish that effortlessly combines healthy, vibrant flavors with ease and elegance, you’ve got to try the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe. These tender, perfectly seasoned salmon meatballs are baked to juicy perfection and served with a luscious, velvety avocado sauce that brightens every bite. Light yet satisfying, this recipe brings together clean eating, bold herbs, and a touch of smoky chipotle for a meal that feels indulgent without any guilt. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, these meatballs are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe, the ingredient list is refreshingly straightforward, yet each component plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. These simple pantry and fresh ingredients blend beautifully to create a dish that’s not just healthy but bursting with flavor.
- Skinless salmon (1 pound): Using fresh, skinless salmon ensures tender meatballs without any bitterness from skin or bones.
- Medium onion (½, grated): Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that complements the salmon.
- Whole wheat panko breadcrumbs (¼ cup + 2 tablespoons): These give the meatballs a light texture and help hold them together while adding a bit of wholesome fiber.
- Minced cilantro (3 tablespoons): Brightens the dish with fresh, citrusy notes and gorgeous green flecks.
- Egg white (1): Acts as a binder without adding extra fat or heaviness.
- Minced garlic cloves (2): Infuses aromatic warmth and depth into the meatballs.
- Salt (¾ teaspoon): Enhances all the layers of flavor.
- Ground pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and peppery bite.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings a smoky sweetness and rich color.
- Ground oregano (½ teaspoon): Offers earthy, herbal undertones that balance the other spices.
- California avocado (¾, peeled and pitted): The star ingredient in the creamy sauce for smoothness and healthy fats.
- Fat-free plain Greek yogurt (3 tablespoons): Adds tang and creaminess to the avocado sauce without heaviness.
- Minced garlic (1 clove): Gives the avocado sauce a subtle kick that melds with the meatballs.
- Lime juice (½ lime): Adds brightness and acidity, balancing richness with freshness.
- Water (5 tablespoons): Thins the avocado sauce to the perfect dipping consistency.
- Minced cilantro (2 tablespoons): Carried over into the sauce for continuity of flavor.
- Chipotle chili powder (¼ to ½ teaspoon): Adds a smoky heat punch to the creamy sauce for a bit of excitement.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon or to taste): Brings out all the avocado’s flavors.
- Ground pepper (¼ teaspoon): A hint of sharpness that rounds out the sauce.
How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spraying a large baking sheet with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Then, place the skinless salmon chunks into a food processor and pulse until finely chopped, but not pureed—this keeps a nice texture for the meatballs. Transfer the chopped salmon into a large mixing bowl where all the other flavorful ingredients will come together.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
To the salmon, add the grated onion, whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, minced cilantro, egg white, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything thoroughly. This mixture should be moist but hold together well when formed. The panko provides the perfect light binding texture while the herbs and spices build layers of deliciousness.
Step 3: Form and Bake the Meatballs
Using a 2-tablespoon scoop of the salmon mixture, roll each portion between your palms to form meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until they are firm to the touch and cooked through. During baking, the kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that promises something special.
Step 4: Blend the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the meatballs bake, prepare the sauce by combining the avocado, fat-free plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lime juice, water, cilantro, chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until silky smooth and perfectly creamy. This sauce is the perfect counterpoint to the spiced salmon meatballs, providing a refreshing, tangy, and smoky finish.
How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add fresh layers of flavor, sprinkle additional minced cilantro or thin slices of radish over the meatballs before serving. A few lime wedges on the side offer a zesty tang for those who want an extra citrus kick, making each bite pop even more.
Side Dishes
These salmon meatballs shine alongside simple, clean sides like a crisp green salad, steamed quinoa, or roasted vegetables. Their lightness pairs beautifully with grain bowls or cauliflower rice, making for a wholesome and balanced meal that is both filling and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or casual dinners, serve the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe skewered with fresh herbs or small cocktail picks for easy finger food. Alternatively, try spooning the meatballs atop small toasts or cucumber rounds with a dollop of avocado sauce for an elegant appetizer. The vibrant green sauce adds a beautiful visual contrast to the golden salmon meatballs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover salmon meatballs (though they usually disappear fast!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and retain their juicy texture and lovely flavors.
Freezing
To save time later, freeze cooked meatballs by placing them on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly frozen, they will last for up to 3 months and are easy to reheat whenever you crave them.
Reheating
Reheat the salmon meatballs gently in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave for best texture, and reheat the avocado sauce separately or fresh for the best creamy experience.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh for this recipe?
While fresh salmon provides the best texture and flavor for the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe, you can use high-quality canned salmon in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and adjust the breadcrumbs to get the right consistency.
Is it possible to make these meatballs without a food processor?
Yes! You can finely chop the salmon and onion by hand, though it will take a bit more time. The key is to get the salmon to a consistency where it binds well with the other ingredients for tender meatballs.
Can I substitute plain yogurt in the avocado sauce?
Plain yogurt is preferred for its tang and creaminess, but you could try sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just be mindful of the flavor balance since these substitutes can be milder or richer.
How spicy is the chipotle chili powder in the sauce?
The chipotle chili powder adds a warm, smoky heat that is gentle and complements the creamy avocado, not overwhelming it. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder sauce.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the meatball ingredients ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. The avocado sauce is best made fresh but can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated—just give it a good stir before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to treat yourself to a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe is calling your name. It’s a fantastic way to bring clean, wholesome ingredients to the table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Don’t wait to try this delightful meal—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
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Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Clean Eating
Description
These baked salmon meatballs are a delicious and healthy entree featuring tender salmon blended with aromatic herbs and spices, baked to perfection and served with a creamy, zesty avocado sauce. Perfect for a nutritious dinner that’s both satisfying and clean-eating friendly.
Ingredients
The Meatballs:
- 1 pound skinless salmon, cut into chunks
- ½ medium onion, grated
- ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons minced cilantro
- 1 egg white
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground oregano
The Sauce:
- ¾ California avocado, skin & seed removed
- 3 tablespoons fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ lime, juiced
- 5 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: Preheat your oven to 350°F and coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray. Place the salmon chunks into a food processor and pulse until finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed. Transfer the chopped salmon to a large mixing bowl. Add grated onion, whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, minced cilantro, egg white, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir everything together until thoroughly combined.
- Form the Meatballs: Using a 2-tablespoon measure, scoop the salmon mixture and roll it between your palms to form evenly sized meatballs. Arrange the meatballs spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and fully cooked through.
- Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine avocado, fat-free plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lime juice, water, minced cilantro, chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once the meatballs are baked, serve them hot topped with a generous dollop of the creamy avocado sauce for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Notes
- Weight Watchers Points: 3 (Freestyle SmartPoints).
- Use whole wheat panko breadcrumbs for added fiber and healthier texture.
- Adjust the chipotle chili powder in the sauce according to your spice preference, starting with ¼ teaspoon and increasing up to ½ teaspoon.
- For best results, use fresh cilantro and fresh lime juice for maximum flavor.
- If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the salmon by hand and blend the sauce ingredients thoroughly with a blender or immersion blender.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Entrees
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
