Salmon Balls with Avocado Sauce

These salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce transform ordinary salmon into a delightful, protein-packed meal that's both elegant and satisfying. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty citrus brings out the natural flavors of the salmon while the creamy avocado sauce adds a perfect balance of richness and tang.

I first created these salmon balls when trying to impress my seafood-skeptical in-laws at a summer gathering. The plate was empty within minutes, and now they request this dish whenever they visit our home.

Ingredients

• Fresh salmon fillet choose wild-caught when possible for best flavor and nutrition
• Fresh parsley and cilantro these herbs add brightness and color that dried herbs simply cannot match
• Breadcrumbs creates the perfect binding texture while absorbing excess moisture
• Egg essential for holding everything together during cooking
• Garlic adds depth and warmth to both the balls and sauce
• Smoked paprika brings a subtle smokiness that enhances the salmon's natural flavors
• Lemon zest brightens the entire dish with concentrated citrus oils
• Ripe avocado the creamy base for our sauce that adds healthy fats
• Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess to balance the rich avocado
• Lime juice prevents the avocado from browning while adding essential acidity

How To Make Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Finely chop your salmon fillet into small pieces about 1/4 inch in size or pulse it briefly in a food processor for 4-5 pulses only. You want a coarse texture, not a paste. Combine with the fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix which can make the balls dense.

Shape the Balls

With slightly damp hands to prevent sticking, scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of mixture and gently roll between your palms to form balls about 2 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help them firm up before cooking.

Cook to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Place the salmon balls in the pan with at least 1 inch between each to ensure they brown rather than steam. Cook for exactly 3 minutes on the first side until golden, then gently flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until firm to the touch and opaque throughout.

Create the Avocado Sauce

Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a food processor. Add the fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and seasonings. Process for 30-45 seconds, stopping to scrape down the sides halfway through, until completely smooth and no green flecks remain.

Serve with Style

Arrange the warm salmon balls on a serving platter and either drizzle with the avocado sauce or serve it alongside in a small bowl for dipping. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lime wedges for an extra pop of color and flavor.

My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the smoked paprika. I discovered its transformative power during a cooking class in Barcelona, where the chef insisted that good smoked paprika can elevate any seafood dish from ordinary to extraordinary. He was absolutely right, and I've never made salmon without it since.

Make-Ahead Magic

These salmon balls are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes them ideal for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute preparation. The cold temperature actually helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

Perfect Pairings

Serve these salmon balls over a bed of lemony quinoa or alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, they pair wonderfully with roasted sweet potatoes or a cool cucumber and dill salad. The versatility of these salmon balls means they work equally well as an elegant appetizer for guests or a wholesome family dinner.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your salmon mixture seems too wet, add another tablespoon of breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture. Conversely, if the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of olive oil or a small amount of Greek yogurt to help bind it together. The perfect consistency should hold its shape when rolled but still feel somewhat moist to the touch.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I bake these salmon balls instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake the salmon balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes until they're cooked through. Place them on a lined baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil before baking for a similar golden exterior.

→ How can I tell when the salmon balls are fully cooked?

The salmon balls are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flake easily with a fork. They should be golden brown on the outside and opaque pink on the inside.

→ Can I make the salmon balls ahead of time?

You can prepare the salmon mixture and form the balls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The avocado sauce is best made fresh, but can be prepared a few hours ahead if covered tightly with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent browning.

→ What sides pair well with salmon balls?

These salmon balls pair beautifully with simple sides like steamed quinoa, brown rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with lemon wedges and extra herbs for garnish.

→ Can I freeze leftover salmon balls?

Yes, cooked salmon balls freeze well for up to 2 months. Cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. The avocado sauce doesn't freeze well, so make that fresh when serving.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for the avocado sauce?

For a dairy-free version of the avocado sauce, replace the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or a few tablespoons of olive oil. You can also add a bit more lime juice and a splash of water to achieve the desired creamy consistency.