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Healthy Dinner Ideas Recipe

Healthy Dinner Ideas Recipe

4.8 from 12 reviews

Delicious and healthy salmon balls served with a creamy avocado cilantro sauce. These grilled salmon bites offer a perfect balance of smoky, zesty flavors and a smooth, tangy dip, ideal for a nutritious dinner or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Balls

  • 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet (skin removed)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)

Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer texture)
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Start by finely chopping the salmon fillet or pulse it in a food processor until coarsely minced. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced salmon, chopped parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Shape the Salmon Balls: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 2 inches in diameter. You should end up with approximately 12-14 balls, depending on their size.
  3. Grill the Salmon Balls: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the salmon balls in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
  4. Prepare the Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce: In a food processor, blend the avocado, fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or lime juice as needed to balance flavor.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the grilled salmon balls with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce either drizzled over them or as a dipping sauce on the side. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.

Notes

  • Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • Ensure salmon is fresh and of good quality for best taste.
  • Cook salmon balls thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 days.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salmon mixture or sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon balls, avocado sauce, healthy dinner, grilled salmon, creamy avocado cilantro sauce, low fat meal, seafood appetizer