There’s something irresistible about small, bite-sized dishes that pack big flavor. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, prepping a light lunch, or planning appetizers for a gathering, Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are an elegant yet easy option that always impresses.
These golden, oven-baked salmon bites are tender on the inside, crisp on the outside, and bursting with fresh herbs and lemony brightness. Paired with a velvety avocado-yogurt sauce, they deliver a satisfying balance of protein, healthy fats, and freshness—perfect for anyone who loves seafood but wants a lighter, more nutritious take.
Think of them as the modern cousin of crab cakes—healthier, simpler, and packed with omega-3 goodness. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile: serve them as appetizers, over a salad, or even tucked into pita pockets for a quick, gourmet-style meal. Let’s dive into how to create this vibrant, restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Recipe Overview
Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce combine flaky, seasoned salmon with herbs and breadcrumbs for a flavorful bite that’s both crispy and moist. Oven-baked instead of fried, these salmon balls are wholesome and easy to make. The accompanying creamy avocado sauce—made with Greek yogurt and lemon juice—adds a cool, tangy finish that perfectly complements the rich salmon.
This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers looking for something quick, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavor.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
For the Salmon Balls:
- 1 lb fresh skinless salmon fillets
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the salmon balls from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Prepare the Salmon
Start by flaking your salmon fillets into small pieces in a large mixing bowl. If you’re using cooked salmon, make sure it’s cooled before handling. If it’s raw, the baking process will cook it perfectly through.
Pro Tip: For extra tenderness, you can steam or lightly poach the salmon for 5–6 minutes before flaking—it helps keep it moist inside.
3. Mix the Ingredients
Add the breadcrumbs, egg, chopped herbs (dill or parsley), lemon juice, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper to the salmon. Gently mix everything together with a fork or your hands until the mixture comes together.
You want it firm enough to hold its shape but not dry—if it feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs; if too dry, a splash of milk or a bit more lemon juice will help.
4. Shape the Salmon Balls
Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them evenly on your parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking.
Pro Tip: Chill the formed salmon balls for 10–15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape even better.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the salmon balls are golden brown and lightly crisped on the outside. You’ll know they’re done when the centers are opaque and firm to the touch.
6. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the salmon balls are baking, prepare your sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine:
- 1 ripe avocado
- Greek yogurt
- Lemon juice
- A pinch of salt and pepper
Blend until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of water or olive oil until you reach your desired consistency.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a hint of garlic, fresh cilantro, or a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salmon balls warm with a generous dollop of creamy avocado sauce. They make a perfect party appetizer, a protein-packed snack, or even a light main dish alongside roasted vegetables or salad.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Fresh vs. Canned Salmon
If you’re short on time, you can use canned salmon instead of fresh. Just make sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin before mixing. It won’t be quite as delicate, but it’s a great shortcut.
2. Breadcrumb Substitutes
To make it gluten-free, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers, almond flour, or panko-style GF crumbs for an equally crisp texture.
3. Flavor Add-Ons
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the salmon mixture for a gentle kick.
- Mix in finely diced red onion or bell peppers for a touch of color and crunch.
- For a Mediterranean spin, add capers and chopped olives.
4. Serving Styles
- As an appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a small bowl of avocado sauce for dipping.
- As a main course: Pair with rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad.
- In wraps or tacos: Layer them in a tortilla with lettuce, sliced cucumber, and a drizzle of the sauce.
5. Make Ahead & Freeze
These salmon balls can be made ahead for easy meal prep.
- To refrigerate: Store unbaked balls in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- To freeze: Arrange on a tray, freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon balls for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Reheating Tips
Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the salmon. Instead, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your salmon balls with:
- A crisp cucumber salad for freshness.
- Steamed asparagus or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
- A drizzle of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavor.
Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are the perfect fusion of flavor and nutrition—light, wholesome, and full of character. The tender, herbed salmon paired with the cool, tangy avocado sauce creates a balance that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
This dish isn’t just easy to make—it’s versatile, elegant, and great for every occasion, from weekday meals to special gatherings. Whether served as appetizers or the star of the plate, these salmon balls will make any table feel a little more special.
So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and bring this vibrant dish to life. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s a seafood favorite that keeps people coming back for more.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned salmon works perfectly—just drain it well and remove bones before mixing.
2. Can I air fry the salmon balls instead of baking?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crispiness.
3. How can I make this dairy-free?
Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or dairy-free sour cream in the avocado sauce.
4. What herbs work best in this recipe?
Dill and parsley are classic, but chives, cilantro, or basil also taste wonderful.
5. How can I store the avocado sauce?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly against the surface.
Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce—crispy, herbed salmon bites served with a smooth avocado-yogurt dip. A healthy, flavorful, and easy seafood recipe for any occasion!