Easy Salmon Balls
My 5 year old son LOVED salmon as a baby and toddler, but it’s been real hit or miss lately. He’s more willing to try with sauces, like this teriyaki glazed salmon, but canned salmon? Forget about it. However, one day, I made oatmeal balls with canned salmon for his little sister, and that really sparked his interest. So I made these salmon balls or meatballs with ingredients I happened to have on hand, and guess what? He gobbled them up! If you’re struggling to get your child (or yourself or your partner) to eat this incredibly nutritious food, I hope this recipe gets you one step closer. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this is a great recipe to keep in your back pocket. Or these mini baked salmon patties or salmon quiche!
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
Salmon – Wild caught Alaskan salmon has been shown to be the best choice. Opt for “no salt added” or “low sodium.” Also, look for BPA-free lining. Bread crumbs – can also use panko-style Green onion – finely chopped red bell pepper is delicious too Sesame oil – adds so much flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Variations
Sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and green onion give these salmon balls an Asian flair. But you’ll be happy to know that this recipe is super versatile! Simply switch up the seasonings.
Mexican – add cumin, coriander, and cilantro Italian – Italian seasoning (which typically consists of basil, oregano, parsley, and thyme)
Healthy Asian recipes for babies and toddlers
Tips for Success
You may find small bones in your canned salmon, which you don’t need to go through the trouble of removing. They are edible and provide a boost of calcium. When shaping the balls, work with slightly wet hands. You will find it much easier to shape them. Don’t forget to add the oven-safe dish filled with water. this helps create steam resulting in tender meatballs, just like for these moist beef meatballs (egg free). Be sure to flip halfway through so all sides get nicely browned.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy as is or with your favorite sauce, like this low sodium teriyaki sauce or Thai coconut sauce. For a well-balanced meal, serve them alongside rice, quinoa, lentils, or pasta and some vegetables (like these easy sauteed vegetables!). When serving to babies 6-8 months, less is more as seeing too much food can be overwhelming. But you do want to make every bite count. Here is a breakdown of how to build a well-balanced plate. And here’s how I plated this meal for my 5 year old son who is currently learning to enjoy salmon. On this day, I needed an EASY side dish so I sauteed some frozen green beans, which I know he’s not a fan of but the rest of us are. What did I do to make the plate more inviting? I added foods he does enjoy – sautéed frozen green peas and rice. Additionally, I included some ketchup, which I’ve found has magical powers ;). I eat french fries for ketchup so I totally get it.
Storage
Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer safe container or bag. I recommend using the flash freeze method to prevent them from sticking together.
Super important – To reheat, place in a skillet with a splash of liquid (e.g. water, broth, sauce, etc.). Cover and cook over medium-low heat until warm, 2-3 minutes or so. You can microwave briefly, too. This will help make the balls moist again as they become a bit dry once refrigerated. Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
