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Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe - Baked and Nutritious

Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce

Tender baked salmon meatballs seasoned with dill and lemon, served with a creamy and zesty avocado dipping sauce. A quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Modern European
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon Meatballs
  • 500 g skinless boneless salmon fillet, cut into chunks
  • 60 g panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 small shallot very finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • 1 tbsp capers rinsed and chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce
  • 2 ripe avocados halved and stoned
  • 120 g full-fat Greek yoghurt
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 small garlic clove crushed
  • A small handful of fresh coriander optional
  • 2-3 tbsp water to thin if needed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat and Prepare: First, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line a large baking tray with parchment paper. This prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
  2. Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Place the salmon chunks into a food processor. Pulse 5-6 times until the salmon is coarsely chopped. Be careful not to over-process it into a paste; we want to retain some texture. I find that a few short bursts is all it takes.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: Scrape the salmon into a medium mixing bowl. Add the panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped shallot, dill, capers, lemon zest, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix with a spatula or your hands until just combined. Again, avoid over-mixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.
  4. Form the Meatballs: Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking. Roll the mixture into small, walnut-sized balls (you should get about 16) and place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each one.
  5. Bake the Meatballs: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The meatballs are done when they are slightly firm to the touch, opaque throughout, and lightly golden. You can check one by cutting it in half. For safe fish preparation, always ensure it's cooked through, as advised by the Food Standards Agency.
  6. Make the Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, make the sauce. Scoop the flesh of the avocados into the food processor (no need to wash it after the salmon). Add the Greek yoghurt, lime juice, crushed garlic, and coriander (if using).
  7. Blend Until Smooth: Blitz the sauce ingredients until completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a tablespoon of water at a time and blend again until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve Immediately: Arrange the hot salmon meatballs on a platter or on individual plates. Serve with a generous dollop of the creamy avocado sauce for dipping.

Notes

Serve these meatballs over a bed of quinoa or with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.