These salmon balls are a tasty treat! Packed with salmon and coated in a crunchy layer, they pair perfectly with a creamy avocado sauce that’s smooth and rich.
I love serving these at parties because they’re fun to eat and easy to share. Plus, everyone always asks for the recipe—it’s a hit every time! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, canned salmon works too! Just make sure to drain it well and flake it before mixing. It saves time and still tastes great.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a light crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture will be denser. You can also use crushed crackers for a fun twist!
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: In the avocado sauce, either works well. Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor and is lower in fat, making it a healthier option. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a plant-based yogurt.
Lemon & Lime Juice: Fresh juice is always the best! For a different twist, you can use an orange instead for a sweeter sauce. The acidity helps balance the richness of the salmon.
How Do You Fry Salmon Balls to Perfection?
Frying salmon balls can seem tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll get them golden and delicious!
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside cooks. Be patient!
- Ensure the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of the salmon mixture in. It should sizzle.
- Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding; this helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to turn the balls gently, so they don’t break apart.
- Let them drain on paper towels after frying to keep them from becoming soggy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll serve up perfect salmon balls that everyone will love!
Salmon Balls With Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Balls:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped or minced
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water or olive oil, as needed to thin the sauce
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Extra chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix everything together. Cooking the salmon balls will take about 10-12 minutes. Allow around 5 minutes for making the avocado sauce. In total, you’re looking at 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon Balls Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, panko breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything gently until all the ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the texture nice!
2. Form the Salmon Balls:
To prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands, wet them lightly with water. Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed balls onto a plate or tray and repeat until you’ve used up all the mixture.
3. Cook the Salmon Balls:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the salmon balls to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Fry in batches if necessary! Cook the balls for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
4. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
While the salmon balls are cooking, you can whip up the avocado sauce! In a blender or food processor, place the ripe avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), garlic clove, lime juice, and cilantro. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you find the sauce too thick, add a little water or olive oil, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
5. Serve:
Arrange your delicious salmon balls on a serving plate or platter. Drizzle the creamy avocado sauce generously over the top, and sprinkle with extra chopped cilantro for a pop of color! Serve with lemon wedges on the side for that zesty kick.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in right away while they are warm! These salmon balls with creamy avocado sauce make for a delightful appetizer or a light meal that everyone will love. Happy eating!
Can I Use Canned Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned salmon! Just be sure to drain it well and flake it before mixing. It’s a convenient option and still delivers great flavor in the salmon balls.
How Can I Make These Salmon Balls Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free salmon balls, simply substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that the other ingredients, especially soy sauce, are gluten-free as well.
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salmon mixture and shape the balls a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This way, they can be fried fresh when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through. The avocado sauce can also be kept in the fridge for a day or two, but it’s best fresh!