Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are tender, flavorful salmon bites coated with a spicy-sweet chili glaze and served with a velvety garlic sauce. Perfectly balanced and quick to prepare, this dish is ideal for appetizers, weeknight dinners, or parties, combining healthy omega-3 rich salmon with fresh herbs and customizable spice levels for everyone to enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 20 salmon balls) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-frying (can also bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes)
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour)
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon Balls
- 1 lb skinless, boneless fresh salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free option)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Pinch of salt
For the Glaze
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Mixture: Finely chop or pulse the salmon fillets in a food processor until just combined, avoiding overprocessing to maintain texture. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the panko breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, beaten egg, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
- Form the Salmon Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into evenly sized balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Salmon Balls: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Place the salmon balls gently in the pan, cooking each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: While the salmon balls cook, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste for a smooth, tangy sauce.
- Glaze with Sweet Chili Sauce: Once cooked, toss the salmon balls gently in warm sweet chili sauce to coat them with a shiny, sticky glaze bursting with flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the glazed salmon balls on a platter and serve alongside the creamy garlic sauce for dipping or drizzling. Garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Don’t overprocess the salmon to keep a good texture in the balls.
- Use freshly minced garlic for a sharper and fresher flavor.
- Chill the formed salmon balls in the fridge for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Adjust the heat by varying the amount of sweet chili sauce or adding fresh chili flakes.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy exterior and creamy sauce at their best.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 salmon balls with sauce
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: salmon balls, sweet chili salmon, creamy garlic sauce, seafood appetizers, gluten-free seafood, easy dinner, party snacks, healthy seafood