Baked Salmon Balls with Avocado (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Meatballs

01 - 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
02 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1 egg, lightly beaten
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
07 - Salt and pepper to taste
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking)

→ For the Avocado Sauce

09 - 1 ripe avocado
10 - 1/4 cup sour cream
11 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
12 - 1 clove garlic, minced
13 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Optional Garnish

14 - Extra fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or nonstick spray.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
03 - Using about a tablespoon of mixture for each, form into small, round meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Drizzle the tops lightly with olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
04 - While the meatballs are baking, make the avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time until desired consistency is reached.
05 - Transfer the warm salmon meatballs to a serving plate. Serve with the avocado sauce either drizzled over the top or in a separate bowl for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.

# Notes:

01 - These meatballs can be served as appetizers or as a main course with a side of vegetables or salad.
02 - For easier chopping, you can briefly freeze the salmon for about 15 minutes before cutting it.
03 - The avocado sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent browning.