Broccoli and Salmon Meatballs
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 15 pieces
These Broccoli and Salmon Meatballs are a delightful blend of fresh, healthy ingredients, creating a perfect appetizer for any occasion. A mix of tender salmon, nutritious broccoli, and hearty potatoes, combined with a crispy breadcrumb coating, offers a delicious, satisfying bite. Whether served as a starter or enjoyed as a light snack, these meatballs are sure to impress with their fresh flavors and vibrant colors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon fillets | 150g |
| Broccoli | 500g |
| Potatoes | 400g |
| Breadcrumbs | 120g |
| Parmesan Reggiano DOP | 40g |
| All-purpose flour (00) | 20g |
| Additional breadcrumbs (for coating) | q.b. |
| Extra virgin olive oil | q.b. |
| Salt | q.b. |
| Black pepper | q.b. |
Instructions:
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Boil the vegetables: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the broccoli florets (washed and trimmed) and potatoes (peeled). Cook them together until tender. Drain the vegetables and allow them to cool slightly.
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Prepare the salmon: While the vegetables are cooking, take the salmon fillets and remove the skin with a sharp knife. Cut the salmon into uniform cubes, making sure the pieces are all about the same size to ensure even cooking.
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Sauté the salmon: Heat a little extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the salmon cubes and cook them until lightly browned on all sides. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Once cooked, set the salmon aside to cool.
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Mash the vegetables: Once the broccoli and potatoes have cooled enough to handle, mash them together using a fork or potato masher. This will form the base of the meatball mixture.
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Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed vegetables with the sautéed salmon cubes. Add the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture, stirring well. Season with more black pepper, and add a small amount of flour to help bind everything together.
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Form the meatballs: With clean hands, take a small amount of the mixture and flatten it into your palm. Place a small cube of cooked salmon in the center of the flattened mixture, then fold the edges over to seal it into a ball. Continue until all the mixture has been shaped into approximately 15 meatballs.
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Coat the meatballs: Roll each meatball in additional breadcrumbs to coat them evenly. This will help give them a crispy, golden exterior when baked.
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Bake the meatballs: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the coated meatballs on it, ensuring they are spaced apart. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top of each meatball to ensure they crisp up in the oven.
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Cook the meatballs: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the meatballs in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Serve: Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious broccoli and salmon meatballs as an appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
These meatballs are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious option for those looking for a lighter, yet satisfying appetizer.
Pro Tip: You can serve these meatballs with a side of tangy dipping sauce, such as a creamy yogurt-based sauce or a zesty mustard sauce, to elevate their flavor even more! Enjoy your homemade creation and the smiles of your guests.
