Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors — Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. This crowd-pleasing recipe combines the natural richness of salmon with a sweet chili glaze, creating the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and a touch of spice. Whether you’re entertaining guests, planning a weeknight dinner, or just craving a delicious homemade snack, these salmon bites will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love These Salmon Balls
- Versatile & Impressive: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or fun finger food for parties and game nights.
- Nutritious & Flavorful: Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, paired with fresh veggies and a creamy garlic sauce that enhances every bite.
- Effortless to Make: With just a few ingredients and easy prep steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish at home in no time.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can shape the salmon balls in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake, making entertaining stress-free.
The sweet chili glaze gives a gentle kick while the garlic sauce adds a creamy, tangy finish — a combination that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Chili Salmon Balls
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon, skinless and boneless
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Utensils You’ll Need
- Food processor
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Refrigerator (for chilling the sauce)
Step-by-Step Instructions
For the Salmon Balls
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Salmon: Add the fresh salmon to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but not puréed. A little texture is perfect.
- Mix Everything: In a large bowl, combine chopped salmon with breadcrumbs, green onions, bell pepper, garlic, ginger, egg, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet with a bit of space between each.
- Bake: Cook in the oven for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.
Serving Tips
Plate the warm salmon balls with a side of creamy garlic sauce for dipping. These pair perfectly with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or fluffy jasmine rice. You can also drizzle extra sweet chili sauce over the top for a glossy, flavor-packed finish.
FAQs
What can I serve with these salmon balls?
They go wonderfully with fresh greens, rice bowls, noodles, or as a party appetizer with extra dipping sauces.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes — shape them ahead, refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
Are they freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Store cooked salmon balls in an airtight container and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I use another fish?
Yes. Tuna or trout work well, but the flavor may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are proof that simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly paired with a creamy dip — they’re ideal for weeknights, parties, or whenever you want something delicious and easy.
Give this recipe a try and share it with friends — it might just become your new favorite appetizer!
