Appetizer Salmon Ball
A creamy, flavorful salmon ball appetizer with cream cheese, pimentos, and herbs, perfect for parties and gatherings, served with crackers for a delightful start.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients except parsley.
- Shape mixture into a ball.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours.
- Coat the ball with chopped parsley.
- Serve with your favorite crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce along with the cayenne pepper. You can substitute the salmon with canned tuna for a different flavor profile, or use fresh cooked salmon for a gourmet touch. This appetizer can also be shaped into smaller balls for bite-sized servings.
Serving Suggestions
This Salmon Ball pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers, fresh vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or a refreshing dip such as Shrimp Soup Dip for a complete appetizer spread. For added flair, garnish with lemon wedges and extra chopped parsley to enhance presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the flavor and texture, avoid freezing the salmon ball as cream cheese can change consistency when thawed. When ready to serve, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizer Salmon Ball contains roughly 426 calories, with 16g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (264% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (112% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 31g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salmon ball in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure it is well-covered and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, coat it with parsley and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will add a tangy flavor while keeping the dish creamy. However, the texture may differ slightly from the original recipe.
Is it safe to use canned salmon?
Yes, canned salmon is perfectly safe to use and is a convenient option. Just make sure to drain and flake it properly before mixing. Canned salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can be a nutritious addition to your diet. Always check the expiration date for best quality.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).