Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce are the perfect healthy dinner that combines protein-rich salmon with nutrient-dense avocado in one delicious bite. I’ve been making this recipe for my family for years, and it never fails to impress guests at dinner parties.

There’s something magical about the combination of fresh herbs, tender salmon, and that velvety avocado sauce that takes me back to my first cooking experiment with salmon. I remember being intimidated by cooking fish, but these salmon balls changed everything for me. They’re forgiving, flavorful, and pack so much nutrition into every bite, similar to my go-to Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice on weeknights.

The creamy avocado cilantro sauce adds the perfect cooling contrast to the warm, herb-packed salmon balls—just like the zesty dip we pair with our Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Skewers. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it delivers restaurant-quality flavors with simple home cooking techniques. I’ve served these salmon balls to everyone from picky eaters to food enthusiasts, and they always ask for the recipe.

• Easy to make with everyday ingredients you probably already have
• Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and satisfying
• Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein for optimal nutrition
• The creamy avocado sauce complements the salmon beautifully without overpowering
• Great for meal prep – make a batch and enjoy throughout the week
• Gluten-free option available by swapping breadcrumbs for almond flour

This salmon balls recipe is more than just a healthy dinner—it’s a way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your family table with minimal effort.

Ingredient Note List

Fresh Salmon Fillet: I always recommend using fresh, wild-caught salmon because it provides the best flavor and texture for these salmon balls, plus it’s packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Parsley: The bright, clean flavor of fresh parsley adds a wonderful herby note that complements the salmon perfectly and keeps the mixture from feeling too heavy.

Cilantro: This herb brings a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor that works beautifully in both the salmon mixture and the creamy avocado sauce.

Breadcrumbs: These act as a binding agent to help hold the salmon balls together while adding a subtle texture – almond flour works great as a gluten-free alternative.

Smoked Paprika: In my kitchen, I prefer smoked paprika because it adds a gentle smoky depth that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors without overwhelming them.

Ripe Avocado: Make sure to pick an avocado that gives slightly when pressed but isn’t mushy – it should be perfectly creamy for the smoothest sauce.

Greek Yogurt: This adds tang and creaminess to the avocado sauce while boosting the protein content and creating a lighter texture than using all avocado.

Lime Juice: The acidity brightens the entire dish and prevents the avocado from browning while adding a fresh, zesty finish.

How to Cook Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Step 1. I usually start by finely chopping the salmon fillet with a sharp knife or pulsing it in a food processor until it’s coarsely minced – don’t over-process or it becomes mushy.

Step 2. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the minced salmon with fresh parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon zest, stirring until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3. My grandmother always said to wet your hands slightly when shaping meatballs, and she was absolutely right – it prevents sticking and helps create smooth, even balls.

Step 4. I’ve found that making the balls about 2 inches in diameter ensures they cook evenly and stay tender on the inside while developing a beautiful golden crust.

Step 5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat – I usually test if it’s ready by dropping in a small piece of the mixture to see if it sizzles gently.

Step 6. Cook the salmon balls for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, being careful not to overcrowd the pan as this causes them to steam instead of sear.

Step 7. While the salmon balls rest, I prepare the creamy avocado sauce by blending avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and garlic until smooth and velvety.

Step 8. My family prefers when I taste and adjust the seasoning in the sauce, adding more lime juice for brightness or salt for depth as needed.

How to Store & Reheat

I usually store any leftover salmon balls and avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where the salmon balls stay fresh for up to 2 days and the sauce lasts up to 1 week. Make sure both are completely cooled before storing to maintain the best texture.

If you’d like to freeze the salmon balls, I recommend freezing them uncooked on a baking sheet first, then transferring to a freezer bag once solid. They keep well for up to 3 months and can be cooked directly from frozen with a few extra minutes cooking time.

For best results, I like to reheat the salmon balls in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, or in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. The avocado sauce is best served fresh and doesn’t need reheating – just give it a quick stir before serving.

What to Serve with Salmon Balls with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad: The crisp, light texture of a simple salad provides the perfect contrast to the rich salmon balls while adding fresh vegetables to round out the meal.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory salmon beautifully and adds satisfying complex carbohydrates to keep you full.

Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed grain absorbs the flavors of the creamy avocado sauce wonderfully—try our Refreshing Mediterranean Quinoa Salad for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor.

Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and crisp-tender texture of grilled asparagus adds a sophisticated touch that pairs perfectly with the herb-crusted salmon balls.

Cucumber Tomato Salad: In my kitchen, I often serve this refreshing salad alongside the salmon balls because the cool, crisp vegetables balance the warm, rich flavors beautifully—our Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad is a great twist.

Garlic Herb Rice: The aromatic herbs in seasoned rice echo the fresh flavors in the salmon balls while providing a comforting, filling side dish.

FAQs

How many calories are in salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce?

Each serving contains approximately 290 calories with 25 grams of protein, making this a nutritious and satisfying meal that fits well into most healthy eating plans.

Are salmon balls with avocado sauce healthy?

Absolutely! I recommend this recipe because it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, healthy monounsaturated fats from the avocado, and fresh herbs that provide antioxidants.

Can I make salmon balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the uncooked salmon balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, which actually helps them hold together better during cooking.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in salmon balls?

Many home cooks find that almond flour works perfectly as a gluten-free substitute, or you can use crushed crackers or even rolled oats for different textures and flavors.

Why did my salmon balls fall apart while cooking?

To avoid this, try adding an extra egg or more breadcrumbs to bind the mixture better, and make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the balls to create an immediate sear.

How do I know when salmon balls are cooked through?

I’ve found that they’re done when they’re golden brown on all sides and feel firm when gently pressed – they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for food safety.