Salmon Balls

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring to a boil. Carefully lower the salmon into the pot. When the water comes back to a boil, turn off the heat and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the salmon to rest until it is just cooked through, about 10 minutes. Using a slotted spatula, transfer the salmon to a tray and place in the refrigerator to cool thoroughly, about 25 minutes.

   Step 2

   Preheat the oven to 450°F. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the olive oil into a 9 × 13-inch baking dish and use your hand to evenly coat the entire surface. Set aside.

   Step 3

   Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and celery and cook, stirring frequently, until they are soft and translucent but not browned, about 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the vegetables to a tray and place in the refrigerator to cool.

   Step 4

   When the salmon and vegetables are completely cool, break the salmon into small pieces but do not completely shred. Combine the salmon and vegetables with the mayonnaise, eggs, bread crumbs, parsley, tarragon, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl and mix by hand until thoroughly incorporated.

   Step 5

   Roll the mixture into round, golf ball–size meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches), making sure to pack the meat firmly. Place the balls in the prepared baking dish, being careful to line them up snugly and in even rows vertically and horizontally to form a grid. The meatballs should be touching one another.

   Step 6

   Roast for 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm and cooked through.

   Step 7

   Allow the meatballs to cool for 5 minutes in the baking dish before serving.