Salmon Meatballs

Salmon meatballs are a tasty and flavorful dish, perfect for those who want to bring something different to the table. This Italian-style version combines the delicacy of salmon with classic ingredients from our tradition, such as fresh parsley, Parmesan and lemon zest, for a balanced and aromatic result. Easy to prepare and versatile, they can be served as an appetizer, main course or even as finger food at a buffet. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these meatballs will win over the palates of all your guests, young and old alike. And for those who prefer a lighter version, there is also the option of baking them in the oven. Let’s prepare them together and let ourselves be carried away by the aromas and flavors of Mediterranean cuisine!

Ingredients

• 400 g fresh salmon
• 1 egg
• 50 g breadcrumbs
• 30 g grated Parmesan
• 1 garlic clove
• Fresh parsley
• 1 lemon
• Extra virgin olive oil for frying
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation

1. Carefully remove the skin and bones from the salmon, then cut it into small pieces or coarsely chop it with a sharp knife.

2. Finely chop one garlic clove and a handful of fresh parsley.

3. In a large bowl, combine the salmon, garlic and parsley. Also add the grated lemon zest, making sure to grate only the yellow part to avoid bitter notes. Continue by adding the breadcrumbs, Parmesan and egg.

4. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper.

5. Mix the mixture until you obtain a homogeneous consistency. If the mixture is too soft, gradually add more breadcrumbs until you reach the desired consistency. The dough should be firm enough to be shaped without crumbling.

6. With slightly damp hands, take portions of the dough and form meatballs the size of a walnut. To ensure even cooking, lightly flatten the meatballs between the palms of your hands.

7. Heat plenty of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not too hot, to prevent the meatballs from burning on the outside while remaining raw inside. You can test the temperature by dipping a piece of breadcrumb: if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

8. Fry the meatballs a few at a time, turning them gently with tongs or a fork. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, so as to keep the oil temperature constant. Turn the meatballs on all sides until golden and crispy.

9. Once golden, drain the meatballs on paper towels to remove excess oil.

10. Serve the meatballs hot, accompanied by a squeeze of fresh lemon or a light sauce of your choice. For an extra touch, you can garnish the plate with a few fresh parsley leaves or add a pinch of grated lemon zest at the moment.

Fun Facts

Salmon meatballs are a versatile dish that can be served both as an appetizer and as a main course. If you prefer, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 180 °C for about 15-20 minutes for a lighter version.