Salmon And Rice Balls
Salmon and rice balls are a delicious, savory dish combining tender salmon, seasoned rice, and fresh vegetables, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine salmon, cooked rice, green onions, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, garlic powder, thyme, red pepper, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Add chopped green bell pepper and chopped celery to the baking dish, along with the tomato sauce.
- Drop the salmon balls into the sauce in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting fresh herbs for dried ones. Fresh parsley or dill can elevate the taste profile significantly. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice or leftover rice works perfectly. You can also use canned tuna as a substitute for salmon if desired. Adjust the spices to match your preference, especially the red pepper for heat.
Serving Suggestions
These salmon and rice balls can be served with a side of mixed greens or a simple salad for a light meal. They also pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, like a lemon dill sauce. For a heartier option, serve alongside roasted vegetables or your favorite pasta dish, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salmon and rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but they may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon And Rice Balls contains roughly 758 calories, with 24g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (134% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 975mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
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 freeze salmon and rice balls?
Yes, you can freeze the salmon and rice balls before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be baked directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, consider using flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients together without changing the flavor significantly.
Can I make these salmon balls gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the other ingredients, like the tomato sauce, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).