Description
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
These honey garlic salmon bites are the ultimate quick and delicious dinner idea! Perfect for busy weeknights or even entertaining guests, these salmon bites combine the delicate flavor of salmon with a sweet, tangy honey garlic glaze. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a healthy meal that’s full of flavor. Pair with rice and veggies for a complete dish that’s sure to impress.
1 ½ lb salmon, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
¾ tsp salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
¼ cup honey
2 tsp sesame seeds
2 tsp chopped chives
Directions:
1. Pat salmon dry, season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Massage with 1 tbsp oil.
2. Heat a skillet with 1 tbsp oil, cook salmon for 4-5 mins until golden.
3. Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, and honey. Simmer for 3-5 mins.
4. Toss salmon with sauce. Serve over rice, garnish with chives.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Kcal: 320 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Salmon: Ensure the salmon skin is completely removed. Pat the 1-inch cubes very dry with paper towels—this is crucial for a good sear. In a bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the salmon cubes and the first tablespoon of olive oil. Gently massage the seasoning and oil onto all sides of the salmon.
2. Sear the Salmon: Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the second tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the salmon cubes in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side, for a total of 4-5 minutes, until golden brown on the outside but still slightly translucent in the very center. Remove salmon to a plate.
3. Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the final tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Finish the Dish: Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Return the salmon bites to the skillet. Gently toss and fold them in the sauce for 1-2 minutes, allowing the glaze to coat the salmon and the fish to finish cooking through.
Serving Suggestions
For a balanced and visually appealing meal, serve these glazed salmon bites over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the extra sauce. Steamed broccoli, sautéed asparagus, or snap peas make excellent vegetable sides. For garnish, a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped chives adds color and texture. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can add a wonderful bright note.
How-to Summary
Cut salmon into cubes, season, and sear until golden. In the same pan, create a simple glaze with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, and honey. Return the salmon to the pan, toss to coat in the thickened glaze, and garnish. The entire process takes about 25 minutes for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator first. Pat it exceptionally dry to remove all moisture from the thawing process.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked? The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I bake these salmon bites instead? Absolutely. Arrange seasoned cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Prepare the sauce separately in a saucepan, then combine.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce? For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos can also be used for a slightly sweeter, soy-free alternative.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Drying the Salmon: Skipping this step leads to steaming instead of searing, preventing a golden crust.
- Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, causing the salmon to release liquid and boil.
- Overcooking the Sauce: Simmer the glaze only until it coats the back of a spoon. Over-reducing can make it overly thick and sticky.
- Over-stirring: Handle the salmon gently when tossing in the glaze to prevent the tender cubes from breaking apart.
Conclusion
These honey garlic salmon bites are a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. They deliver a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors with minimal effort and time. Whether you need a reliable weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for company, this recipe is a guaranteed success. Master the simple techniques, avoid the common pitfalls, and enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish that will become a regular in your rotation.