Salmon Ball
Salmon ball is a delightful appetizer that combines the rich flavors of canned salmon with creamy cheese and a zesty kick from horseradish and lemon juice. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and pairs wonderfully with crackers or rye bread, making it ideal for parties or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients except parsley.
- Mix well and refrigerate for about 4 hours or until firm enough to shape into a ball.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and roll it in chopped parsley (and chopped nuts, if desired).
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve with crackers or small slices of rye bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of the regular kind. If you prefer a bit more flavor, try adding Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. If you don't have salmon, canned tuna can be a good substitution. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also enhance the flavor profile, making it a delightful option for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon ball with a variety of crackers or small slices of rye bread for a delightful appetizer. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or vegetable platter. For an elegant touch, consider serving it with a side of horseradish sauce or a lemon wedge. This dish also complements other seafood recipes, like Shrimp Dip or Crab Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salmon ball can also be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. If it firms up too much after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving again to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Ball contains roughly 664 calories, with 34g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2622mg per serving (114% 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 make the salmon ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon ball a day in advance. Just be sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to firm up before shaping it into a ball. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.
What can I use instead of canned salmon?
If you don’t have canned salmon, you can substitute it with canned tuna for a similar texture and flavor. Alternatively, cooked fresh salmon that has been flaked can also be used, providing a fresher taste to the dish.
How long can the salmon ball be left out at room temperature?
It's best to keep the salmon ball refrigerated until serving to ensure food safety. However, if left out, it should not be out for more than 2 hours. If serving at an event, consider keeping it on ice to maintain freshness.
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).