These grilled salmon balls are packed with vibrant herbs, zesty lemon, and smoky paprika, then served with a rich, tangy avocado cilantro sauce that’s creamy and refreshing.
Whether you serve them as an appetizer, protein-packed snack, or main dish, these savory bites deliver on flavor and freshness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Made with fresh salmon and herbs
Naturally gluten-free option included
Quick to prep and easy to grill in minutes
Paired with a creamy avocado sauce you’ll want on everything
High-protein, low-carb, and full of vibrant flavor
Ingredient Highlights
Fresh salmon fillet – Rich in omega-3s and protein, the base of these flavorful balls.
Parsley & cilantro – Bring fresh, aromatic brightness to each bite.
Breadcrumbs or almond flour – Classic or gluten-free—your choice for texture.
Egg – Binds the salmon and herbs together.
Smoked paprika & lemon zest – Add a citrusy, smoky flavor contrast.
Avocado – Creamy, nutrient-dense base for the sauce.
Greek yogurt – Adds tang and smoothness without overpowering the herbs.
Lime juice & garlic – Boosts acidity and savory depth in the sauce.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat salmon dry before mincing to reduce extra moisture in the mix.
Use a food processor for quick and even mincing, but don’t overblend.
For easier shaping, chill the mixture for 10 minutes before rolling.
Make the sauce ahead of time—it stays bright for hours.
Prefer baking? Cook the salmon balls at 400°F for 12–15 minutes instead.
How to Make Grilled Salmon Balls with Avocado Sauce
Step 1: Mix the Salmon Base
Finely chop the salmon with a sharp knife or pulse in a food processor until coarsely minced.
In a large bowl, mix it with parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Stir until evenly combined.
Step 2: Form the Balls
Using clean hands, scoop out small portions and roll them into 2-inch balls.
You’ll get 12–14 depending on size.
Step 3: Grill to Golden
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
Add salmon balls in batches and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning gently, until browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Blend the Sauce
In a food processor, combine avocado, cilantro, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Plate and Serve
Serve the warm salmon balls with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping.
Garnish with extra herbs or lime wedges if desired.
What to Serve It With
Steamed rice or quinoa
Roasted sweet potatoes or grilled veggies
Warm pita bread or flatbread
Extra lime wedges for brightness
Variations & Substitutions
Use canned salmon in a pinch—just drain well and flake
Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream or dairy-free yogurt
Add a chopped jalapeño or pinch of chili flakes for heat
Skip the cilantro and use dill or mint for a twist
Make them into patties for salmon burgers instead
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate salmon balls and sauce separately in airtight containers
Salmon balls will keep for up to 3 days
Reheat in a skillet or oven—avoid microwaving to maintain texture
Sauce keeps for 1–2 days before browning (press plastic wrap directly on top to help)
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, just be sure to drain and flake it well.
The texture will be softer, but still tasty.
How do I keep the salmon balls from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is well combined and not too wet.
Chilling helps them hold together during cooking.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once for even browning.
Is the sauce spicy?
No, it’s creamy and mild.
Add chili flakes or jalapeño if you prefer heat.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, but it’s best served the same day—it may brown if stored too long.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Cooked salmon balls freeze well—just cool fully and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Almond flour is a great gluten-free alternative that also adds nutty flavor.
Final Thoughts
These grilled salmon balls with avocado cilantro sauce are flavorful, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Whether served as a meal, snack, or party app, they’re sure to disappear fast.
Fresh, herby, and satisfying—it’s a dish you’ll make on repeat!
Grilled Salmon Balls
Ingredients
For the Salmon Balls:
- 1 lb 450g fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
- ¼ cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour for gluten-free
- 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
For the Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Finely chop or pulse the salmon in a food processor.
- In a large bowl, mix salmon with herbs, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Shape mixture into 2-inch balls (about 12–14 total).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook salmon balls for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/grilled-salmon-balls/
