Salmon Meatballs with Rice & Creamy Dill Sauce
Living in Sweden, I truly appreciate how simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create something incredibly comforting. This salmon meatball recipe is inspired by classic Scandinavian flavors—fresh dill, delicate fish, creamy sauces, and cozy meals shared around the table.In Scandinavian cooking, salmon is a staple. It’s often paired with herbs like dill and served with simple sides like rice or potatoes. This dish brings all of that together in a way that feels modern, easy, and perfect for busy families.These salmon meatballs with rice and creamy dill sauce are one of my go-to recipes when I want a healthy, easy dinner that works for everyone—including toddlers and babies. They’re soft, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making them ideal for a family-friendly meal or even baby-led weaning.
Ingredients
- 400 g fresh salmon (skin removed)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for softer texture)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional for babies)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- olive oil (for cooking)
Rice Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- Pinch of salt
Ingredients for the Creamy Dill Sauce:
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Rice (Perfect Fluffy Rice for Salmon Meatballs)
Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear—this helps achieve that light, fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with salmon.Add rice, water, and a pinch of salt to a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes. Let it rest before serving.Prepare the Salmon Mixture (Healthy Salmon Meatballs Base)
Finely chop the salmon or pulse gently in a food processor (avoid over-processing).In a bowl, combine: Fresh salmon, Breadcrumbs or oat flour, Egg, Dill and parsley, Garlic (optional) Lemon zest, Salt & pepperMix gently until just combined—this keeps the salmon meatballs tender and juicy.Shape & Cook (How to Cook Salmon Meatballs)
Form into small meatballs (golf ball size or smaller for kids).Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the salmon meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.💡 This method gives you crispy edges while keeping the inside soft—perfect for a healthy salmon meatballs recipe.Make the Creamy Dill Sauce (Classic Scandinavian Sauce)
In a bowl, mix:Sour cream or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, Lemon juice, Fresh dill, Salt and pepperThis creamy dill sauce for salmon is a classic Nordic-style addition that brings everything together.
Notes
Please note: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using an online nutrition calculator.