Description
These Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are a delicious and quick-to-make dish featuring tender salmon cubes coated in a flavorful honey garlic glaze. Perfectly seasoned and pan-seared until golden, then tossed in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce, these bites are an irresistible appetizer or main course served best over steamed rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh chives.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 1 ½ lb salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Sauce and Garnish
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 teaspoons chopped chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon cubes dry thoroughly with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes a better sear.
- Apply Seasoning: In a bowl, sprinkle the salmon cubes evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and gently massage the seasoning into the salmon to coat each piece well.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a heavy skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the Salmon Cubes: Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer in the pan without crowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping often to ensure all sides become crispy and golden brown.
- Set Cooked Salmon Aside: Once cooked, remove the salmon cubes and place them on a plate. Repeat the cooking with any remaining salmon cubes, adding additional oil if necessary.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create the Glaze: Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a sticky glaze consistency.
- Combine Salmon and Sauce: Return the crispy salmon cubes to the skillet and toss them gently to coat thoroughly in the honey garlic sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add salt or pepper if needed to balance flavors.
- Serve the Dish: Serve the honey garlic salmon bites immediately over steamed rice. Garnish the top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped chives to add texture and freshness.
Notes
- Be sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy crust.
- Cook the salmon in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan for better searing.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor in the glaze.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice and steamed vegetables.
- You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
