Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These crispy, golden-fried salmon balls are the perfect solution for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. Packed with protein and omega-3s, they're a guilt-free indulgence the whole family will adore. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and offers a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked salmon. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked salmon, flaked (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) to keep the cooked salmon balls warm once they're fried. This is a great tip for preventing them from getting cold while you fry batches.
Prepare the Salmon Mixture:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the flaked salmon, bread crumbs, onion, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the balls tough.
Shape and Fry:
- Using your hands, shape the salmon mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small bread crumb sizzles immediately upon contact.
- Carefully place the salmon balls in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. You may need to fry them in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Once fried, remove the salmon balls from the skillet and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Transfer to the preheated oven to keep warm.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your delicious fried salmon balls immediately. They're fantastic on their own, or you can pair them with a side of your favorite vegetables, a fresh salad, or a creamy dipping sauce like tartar sauce or aioli.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite herbs and spices to the salmon mixture.
- Make it healthier: Use whole wheat bread crumbs or oat crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. You can also bake the salmon balls instead of frying them – simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Add some crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the mixture for added texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Around 20-25 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
These easy recipes for delicious dishes are sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with this healthy meal, perfect for quick dinner ideas. It's a great way to enjoy the best recipes without spending hours in the kitchen. These fried salmon balls are a testament to how simple healthy eating can be!