Salmon Bliss Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

$- 1 lb fresh salmon, skinless and chopped - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley - 2 green onions, finely sliced - 1 clove garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for frying - 1 large ripe avocado - 1 tablespoon lime juice - 1 clove garlic, minced - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons water (to thin if necessary) - Chopped herbs (dill or cilantro) - Different types of breadcrumbs - Alternative fish options (e.g., tuna, trout) The main ingredients set the stage for a tasty dish. Fresh salmon gives a rich flavor. Whole wheat breadcrumbs add texture and nutrition. Herbs like parsley and green onions brighten each bite. Garlic and mustard bring depth. Lemon juice adds a zesty kick. Don’t forget the salt and pepper to taste. Olive oil helps to fry the balls until golden. For the avocado sauce, ripe avocado is key. It adds creaminess and healthy fats. Lime juice brightens the flavor. Garlic gives a nice kick. Adjust salt and pepper for your taste. If the sauce is thick, add water to reach the right creaminess. Feel free to add chopped herbs to the salmon mix. Dill or cilantro can give new twists. You can swap breadcrumbs or use other fish. Tuna or trout can work just as well. This makes the dish flexible and fun! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, gather your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine: - 1 lb fresh salmon, skinless and chopped - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) - 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley - 2 green onions, finely sliced - 1 clove garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Salt and pepper to taste Mix these ingredients well. Use your hands to combine them for the best result. You want a thick, sticky texture. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of water or more lemon juice. Now, it’s time to shape the mixture into balls. Take a handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Use your palms to keep the shape round. To make sure they hold together during cooking, avoid overworking the mixture. If they seem too crumbly, add a bit more mustard or some olive oil. Set the formed balls aside on a plate while you heat the oil. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, gently place the salmon balls into the skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; this helps them cook evenly. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown. Make sure they are cooked through. Once done, remove them and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. - Use fresh herbs like parsley for a bright taste. - Dried herbs can work, but fresh packs more punch. - Add spices like garlic powder or paprika for warmth. - Experiment with salt and pepper to get the right balance. - Pan frying gives a crispy outside and soft inside. - Baking is healthier but may not be as crispy. - Use enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. - Avoid overcrowding; leave space for even cooking. - If they stick, gently use a spatula to lift them. - Plate salmon balls on a colorful dish for a nice look. - Drizzle avocado sauce over the top for a pop of green. - Try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs as a garnish. - Serve with sides like salad or roasted vegetables for balance. - Rice or quinoa also pairs well with these tasty bites. Pro Tips Fresh Salmon is Key: Always opt for the freshest salmon you can find to enhance the flavor and texture of your bliss balls. Breadcrumbs for Texture: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added nutrition and a delightful crunch in your salmon balls. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the salmon balls in batches to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a perfect golden brown color. Adjust Avocado Sauce Consistency: If the avocado sauce is too thick, add water gradually until you reach a smooth, creamy consistency that’s perfect for drizzling. {{image_2}} You can add heat by mixing in chili flakes or diced jalapeños. This gives the salmon balls a nice kick. If you like smoky flavors, try adding smoked paprika or Old Bay seasoning. Both options enhance the taste without overwhelming it. Experimenting with spices can make the dish truly your own. While avocado sauce is great, you can try other dips too. A yogurt-based dip or tzatziki offers a refreshing twist. You can also explore different flavors for the avocado sauce. For example, adding herbs like cilantro or dill can change the taste. This way, every meal can be a new adventure. If you need a gluten-free version, there are easy swaps for breadcrumbs. You can use ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Both maintain the texture and flavor of the salmon balls. To keep the taste rich, add more herbs or spices. This way, you won’t miss the gluten at all. To store leftover salmon balls, place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 2-3 days. When reheating, use a skillet on medium heat. Add a little olive oil to help them warm evenly. This keeps them crispy. You can freeze salmon balls raw or cooked. For raw, shape them and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked balls, let them cool first. Then, place them in a container. Use them within three months for best taste. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture. Cooked salmon balls last 2-3 days in the fridge. Look for signs like a strange smell or change in color. If you notice either, toss them out. Trust your senses; they help keep you safe. Yes, you can use canned salmon. Just make sure it is drained and flaked. Canned salmon is a great time-saver. It also has a similar flavor profile. You can use crushed crackers or oats instead of breadcrumbs. Almond flour or cornmeal also works well. These options can add unique flavors and textures. To keep salmon balls from falling apart, ensure you're using enough binder. Breadcrumbs and mustard help hold them together. Chilling the mixture before shaping can also help. Yes, you can make the avocado sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container. To prevent browning, add a little extra lime juice on top. Salmon balls are healthy! They are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s support heart health and brain function. The fresh ingredients also add vitamins and minerals. This blog post showed you how to make tasty salmon balls and a delicious avocado sauce. We discussed important ingredients, easy steps, and tips to enhance flavor. You learned how to store leftovers and even make gluten-free options. Make these salmon balls your own by trying different herbs, spices, or fish. Whether you share them with friends or enjoy them solo, these bites will impress. Happy cooking!$

Salmon Bliss Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Delicious salmon balls served with a creamy avocado sauce.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb fresh salmon, skinless and chopped
0.5 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
0.25 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
2 pieces green onions, finely sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
to taste Salt and pepper
as needed Olive oil for frying
1 large ripe avocado
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 clove garlic, minced
to taste Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons water (to thin if necessary)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, parsley, green onions, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and set aside on a plate.
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, gently place the salmon balls into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
To make the avocado sauce, scoop the avocado flesh into a blender. Add lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve the salmon balls warm with the avocado sauce drizzled on top or as a dip on the side.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add some chili flakes to the avocado sauce.

Keyword appetizer, avocado, healthy, salmon