Name: Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 250 g cooked salmon fillet; 1 egg; 80 g almond flour; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon basil leaves, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, finely grated; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 medium-ripe avocado; 1 tablespoon dairy-free or regular Greek-style yogurt; 1 teaspoon organic lemon zest; 1 teaspoon organic lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, finely grated; 1 teaspoon red chili pepper, finely chopped; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 22 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful dish that balances lightness with bold flavors, this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Dip Recipe is an absolute must-try. These salmon meatballs are tender, packed with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, then paired perfectly with a luscious, creamy avocado dip that adds a refreshing tang with a hint of spice. They come together quickly, making them perfect for both weekday dinners and elegant gatherings. Every bite offers a fantastic blend of textures and tastes that will keep you reaching for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a white bowl with a gray rim on a white marbled surface showing four main layers neatly placed apart inside; on the left is a bright yellow raw egg yolk with clear egg white around it, next to it is a small pile of yellow lemon zest, to the right is a heap of fine white flour, and below that is a cluster of pink cooked salmon chunks topped with strips of dark green fresh herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony. Each component enhances the dish’s flavor, texture, or appearance—giving you meatballs that are moist yet firm and a dip that is rich without being overpowering.

Cooked salmon fillet (250 g): the star ingredient providing natural omega-3 fats and a tender texture.
Egg (1): acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together perfectly.
Almond flour (80 g): adds a subtle nuttiness while keeping the meatballs gluten-free and light.
Lemon zest (1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon for dip): brightens the overall flavor with fresh citrus notes.
Basil leaves (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): introduces aromatic herbal freshness.
Garlic clove (2, finely grated): essential for that savory depth both in meatballs and dip.
Extra-virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): used for richness and to keep the meatballs moist as they bake.
Sea salt & black pepper: the basic seasoning for balanced flavor.
Medium-ripe avocado (1): forms the creamy base of the dip that complements the meatballs.
Greek-style yogurt (1 tablespoon, dairy-free or regular): adds tang and silkiness to the avocado dip.
Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): enhances the dip’s brightness and keeps the avocado from browning.
Red chili pepper (1 teaspoon, finely chopped): gives the dip a gentle kick—feel free to adjust according to your heat preference.

How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Dip Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Begin by preheating your oven to 180ºC (350ºF) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly mash the cooked salmon fillet in a large bowl with a fork to break it down but still keep it chunky enough for texture. Fold in the almond flour, lemon zest, finely chopped basil leaves, and grated garlic. Stir to combine evenly. Next, crack in the egg and mix thoroughly until the mixture sticks together well. If it feels too dry, add a splash of olive oil; if too wet, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour. Season with salt and black pepper generously, because seasoning is the secret to savoriness!

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

Use your hands or an ice-cream scoop for uniform meatballs—they should be about the size of golf balls for even cooking. Place each meatball onto your parchment-lined baking tray. Brush each one with a bit of olive oil to help with browning and moisture. Pop the tray into the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the meatballs turn a gorgeous golden color and feel firm to the touch. While they bake, your kitchen will fill with the amazing aroma of herbs and lemon.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Avocado Dip

While the meatballs work their magic in the oven, mash the ripe avocado in a bowl until silky and smooth with just a few small lumps—this texture is part of the charm. Stir in the Greek-style yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, and a pinch each of sea salt and black pepper. Finally, fold in chopped red chili pepper to your desired spice level, adding a fantastic contrast to the creamy richness. Once mixed, chill the dip briefly if you like; it’s refreshing served cool against the warm meatballs.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the salmon meatballs from the oven and immediately serve them with a generous scoop of the creamy avocado dip on the side. The union of these two components makes the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Dip Recipe feel like a restaurant-quality dish made in your very own kitchen.

How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Dip Recipe

There are six round balls made from a crumbly mixture with small bits of green herbs and orange pieces inside. They are placed loosely on a dark gray metal baking tray, with the springy texture of the mixture visible. The tray is on a blue wooden surface. The balls vary a little in size and are spaced apart, showing their rough, uneven texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few simple garnishes can elevate these meatballs to a beautiful presentation. Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or a few microgreens over the top for a pop of vibrant green. A light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil adds gloss and flavor. If you like a bit of crunch, toasted almond flakes are the perfect choice. These touches make the dish not only delicious but visually enticing.

Side Dishes

These salmon meatballs pair beautifully with light side dishes. Think a fresh mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette, some roasted baby potatoes, or even a bed of fluffy quinoa to soak up that creamy avocado dip. Steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans will balance the richness of the meatballs and dip perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these meatballs as part of a tapas spread alongside olives, cherry tomatoes, and crusty bread. You can also thread the meatballs onto skewers with chunks of bell pepper and zucchini for a visually fun appetizer. Another idea is to place the meatballs atop crisp lettuce leaves and use the avocado dip as a drizzle, making handheld bites that impress at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the baked salmon meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to three days. Keep the avocado dip separate in a sealed jar to prevent browning and maintain freshness. The dip might thicken a bit; just give it a quick stir before serving again.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked salmon meatballs for longer storage. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to two months. For best results, freeze the avocado dip separately, as fresh avocado rarely freezes well without texture changes.

Reheating

Reheat your salmon meatballs gently in a preheated oven at 160ºC (320ºF) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep their texture intact. Serve fresh avocado dip chilled alongside for the best flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use raw salmon instead of cooked salmon for this recipe?

It’s best to use cooked salmon in this recipe to ensure the meatballs hold together and cook evenly. Using raw salmon would require longer cooking times and could affect the texture. You can bake or steam fresh salmon beforehand and then follow the recipe.

Is almond flour necessary, or can I substitute something else?

Almond flour gives a lovely nutty flavor and keeps these meatballs gluten-free. If you prefer, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or panko, but it will change the texture slightly. For a low-carb option, almond flour is ideal.

How spicy is the avocado dip?

The dip’s spice level depends on how much red chili pepper you add. The recipe suggests one teaspoon, which offers a gentle warmth. You can adjust this to your taste, using more for extra heat or omitting entirely for a milder dip.

Can I make the avocado dip vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use a dairy-free yogurt alternative in place of regular Greek-style yogurt. This keeps the dip creamy and delicious, fitting perfectly with a vegan diet.

Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep lunches?

Yes! These salmon meatballs are fantastic for meal prep as they keep well and reheat nicely. Pair them with some fresh veggies or a grain salad for a nourishing lunch that feels exciting and different.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the combination of juicy baked salmon meatballs paired with a velvety, tangy avocado dip. This Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Dip Recipe balances healthy ingredients with crave-worthy flavor, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these meatballs hit all the marks — easy, delicious, and endlessly satisfying. Give them a try soon and watch how quickly they become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Dip Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need