Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce – Healthy, Flavorful & Perfect for Any Occasion

Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are a delicious fusion of rich, tender salmon and a fresh, zesty dressing that elevates every bite. Unlike traditional deep-fried seafood appetizers, these salmon balls are baked to golden perfection, making them a lighter yet equally satisfying option. The creamy avocado sauce offers a refreshing balance, bringing a smooth, velvety texture with just the right tang. Perfect for parties, healthy lunches, or elegant dinners, this recipe combines nutrition with indulgence. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or exploring new ways to enjoy fish, these salmon balls promise a gourmet experience that’s simple enough for home cooking.

Overview of Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

This recipe for Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce is the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Fresh or cooked salmon is combined with breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasonings, then shaped into bite-sized balls and baked until golden brown. The avocado sauce—made with ripe avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and fresh herbs—brings a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the salmon beautifully. This dish is naturally high in protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and contains wholesome fats from the avocado. Ideal for make-ahead appetizers, family-friendly meals, or meal prep, these salmon balls are easy to prepare and impressive to serve.

Ingredients of Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

For the Salmon Balls:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillets (skinless, boneless)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for extra moisture)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray, for baking

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

• 2 ripe avocados
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

1. Prepare the salmon – If using raw salmon, bake or steam until cooked through, then let it cool slightly before flaking. If using leftover cooked salmon, skip to the flaking step.
2. Mix the ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine flaked salmon, panko breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape into balls – Using clean hands, roll the mixture into even, bite-sized balls.
4. Bake the salmon balls – Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through.
5. Make the avocado sauce – Blend avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve – Arrange the baked salmon balls on a platter, drizzle with avocado sauce, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Instructions (Detailed)

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Cook and prepare salmon: If starting with raw salmon, season lightly with salt and pepper, bake for 12–15 minutes, then flake with a fork. If using leftover salmon, ensure it’s cooled and free of skin and bones.
3. Combine the mixture: In a large bowl, add flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The texture should be moist but firm enough to hold shape.
4. Shape the salmon balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place each on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake to perfection: Spray lightly with olive oil for a golden crust. Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning them halfway to ensure even browning.
6. Prepare avocado sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Plate and serve: Arrange salmon balls on a serving platter, garnished with extra parsley or lime wedges. Serve with avocado sauce drizzled over or in a dipping bowl.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 4 servings)

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg

Serving of Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Serve your Baked Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce as an elegant appetizer, healthy lunch, or part of a light dinner. They pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or whole-grain crackers. For gatherings, arrange them on a wooden serving board with the avocado sauce in a small dipping bowl for easy sharing. A garnish of fresh cilantro and lime wedges adds a pop of color and flavor. These salmon balls are delicious warm, but they also hold their flavor and texture at room temperature, making them perfect for parties, picnics, and meal prep for the week ahead.