Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce: A Light and Flavorful Delight

These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce combine the richness of salmon with the smooth texture of avocado, creating a healthy and satisfying meal. The salmon meatballs are baked to perfection, keeping them light and juicy, while the creamy avocado sauce adds a refreshing, zesty touch that perfectly complements the savory fish. This dish is packed with healthy fats, lean protein, and vibrant flavors that make it ideal for a quick dinner or as a flavorful appetizer. If you're looking for a variation, you can swap the salmon for tuna or even ground chicken, and for a dairy-free version, simply substitute the yogurt with coconut yogurt. Best enjoyed with a side of greens or served in lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillets, skin removed and chopped into small pieces
  
  

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
  
  

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
  

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  
  

• 1 large egg
  
  

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
  
  

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
  
  

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
  
  

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  
  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  
  

• 1 small garlic clove
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• Water, to thin (optional)
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
   

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
   
   

3. Form the mixture into 12-14 meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
   
   

4. Brush the meatballs with a little olive oil to help them brown and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
   
   

5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the creamy avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
   
   

6. Serve the baked salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce on the side, and garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately!
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 25g
  
  

• Fat: 22g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 8g
  
  

• Fiber: 5g
  
  

• Sugar: 2g
  
  

• Sodium: 350mg