Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

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📝 Introduction:

These Baked Salmon Meatballs are a fresh and healthy twist on traditional meatballs. Packed with omega-3 rich salmon, herbs, and spices, they’re baked to golden perfection—no frying needed! Paired with a creamy, zesty Avocado Sauce, this dish is low-carb, gluten-free, and bursting with flavor. Great for a light lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer!

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🧾 Ingredients:

For the Salmon Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, skinless and boneless
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional but delicious)
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling or greasing the pan)

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 tbsp lime or lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2–4 tbsp water or olive oil (to thin the sauce, as needed)

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🔪 Instructions:

🔸 Step 1: Prep the Salmon

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Chop the salmon into chunks and pulse in a food processor until finely minced—but not pureed.

🔸 Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Minced salmon
   • Breadcrumbs or almond flour
   • Egg
   • Garlic
   • Onion
   • Lemon zest & juice
   • Parsley, dill, salt, and pepper
4. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

🔸 Step 3: Form and Bake Meatballs

5. Using damp hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1½-inch balls (about 14–18 meatballs).
6. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Lightly drizzle or brush the tops with olive oil.
8. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and lightly golden.

🔸 Step 4: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce

9. In a blender or food processor, combine:
   • Avocado
   • Greek yogurt
   • Garlic
   • Lime or lemon juice
   • Herbs
10. Blend until smooth. Add water or olive oil gradually to reach your desired consistency.
11. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the warm meatballs drizzled with the creamy avocado sauce.
• Add a side salad, roasted veggies, or quinoa for a full meal.
• These also work great as sliders or in lettuce wraps!