Crispy Salmon Bites with a creamy avocado sauce make a delicious and healthy appetizer or snack. These salmon meatballs are seasoned with garlic, paprika, and fresh parsley, baked to perfection, and served with a tangy avocado and sour cream dip.
Author:Kate
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Meatballs
1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking)
Avocado Sauce
1 ripe avocado
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet with a little olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Form Meatballs: Shape the salmon mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a tablespoon each, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil to help achieve a crispy texture.
Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the meatballs are firm and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), indicating they are fully cooked.
Prepare Avocado Sauce: While the meatballs bake, blend together the ripe avocado, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy.
Serve: Serve the warm salmon meatballs topped or accompanied by a generous drizzle of the tangy avocado sauce. Optionally, garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
Use fresh parsley for the best flavor, but dried parsley can be substituted if needed (use about 1 teaspoon dried).
Make sure the salmon is finely chopped to help the meatballs hold together well.
The breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.
If preferred, pan-fry the meatballs in a little olive oil instead of baking for a crispier exterior.
Check the internal temperature of meatballs with a food thermometer to ensure safe cooking.
The avocado sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated but add lemon juice just before serving to prevent browning.