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Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce combine tender, flaky salmon with a spicy-sweet glaze and a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This easy-to-make dish bursts with flavor and texture, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Ready in under 45 minutes, it features healthy omega-3 rich salmon and a versatile preparation ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salmon Balls

  • 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillets, finely chopped or pulsed
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if preferred)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Oil for cooking (vegetable or olive oil)

For the Sweet Chili Glaze

  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (use dairy-free alternative if needed)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Chopped cilantro, parsley, or dill
  • Finely grated carrot or zucchini
  • Fresh chopped chili or cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds
  • Fresh chili slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Finely chop or pulse the salmon in a food processor until slightly coarse. Transfer to a bowl. Add breadcrumbs, egg, chopped green onions, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine while keeping the salmon tender.
  2. Shape the Salmon Balls: Using clean hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch bite-sized balls. Place on a lightly greased baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
  3. Cook the Salmon Balls: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook salmon balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
  4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the salmon balls cook, mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Glaze and Serve: Toss the cooked salmon balls gently in sweet chili sauce until coated. Arrange on a serving platter and drizzle with creamy garlic sauce or serve it on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs as desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh or sushi-grade salmon for best texture and flavor.
  • Handle the salmon mixture gently to keep the balls tender, avoid overmixing.
  • Chill shaped balls before cooking to help them hold their shape.
  • Adjust sweetness and spiciness of sauces to your taste.
  • Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the glaze.
  • Store leftover salmon balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; keep sauce separate.
  • Freeze uncooked salmon balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat gently in oven or stovetop to maintain texture; avoid microwave reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon balls, sweet chili salmon, garlic sauce, appetizer, gluten free, seafood snack, easy recipe, party food