If you’re looking for a dish that’s big on flavor but simple on prep, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe. Think tender, golden-brown salmon cubes, a savory-sweet teriyaki glaze, and a sprinkle of fresh garnishes that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s weeknight-friendly, dinner party-worthy, and deeply satisfying, marrying Asian-inspired flavors with the unbeatable richness of salmon—all coming together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This delightful Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe uses ingredients that strike the perfect balance between simplicity and impact. Each component brings something special, whether it’s deep umami, just the right amount of crunch, or that irresistible pop of color on your plate.
- Salmon fillets (1 ½ lbs, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes): The star of the show—choose fresh, firm salmon for the best results.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): This helps sear the salmon to golden perfection, locking in flavor and juiciness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch to season the salmon without overpowering the teriyaki sauce.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth that brings out the rich taste of the fish.
- Teriyaki sauce (1/2 cup, store-bought or homemade): This is where the dish gets its signature glossy, flavorful glaze.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): An extra layer of salty, savory depth—opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
- Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): A splash of acidity brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Just a little delivers that unmistakable nutty aroma you expect in Asian cooking.
- Honey (1 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water, optional): The secret to a beautifully thickened sauce, if you crave extra stickiness.
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish): Add crunch, freshness, and a pop of color at the finish line.
How to Make Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Begin by patting the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully in the pan. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper to draw out the natural flavors, laying the groundwork for all the deliciousness to follow. Starting with well-prepared fish makes every bite irresistible.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer and let them cook for 2–3 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a golden crust on the outside while the inside stays tender and just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, these golden cubes will return soon!
Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Glaze
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey if you’re going for a sweeter finish. Stir everything together and bring it gently to a simmer. If you like your sauce thick and glossy, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 more minutes until the sauce is beautifully clingy.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Return the cooked salmon bites to the skillet, tossing gently so each cube gets coated in that dreamy teriyaki glaze. Let everything warm through for another minute—this quick toss helps the flavors really soak into the salmon, ensuring every bite is mouthwatering.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Lift the Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe straight from the skillet to your serving dish. Shower them with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds and plenty of chopped green onions. This not only looks stunning but also adds bursts of flavor and crunch to each eating experience.
How to Serve Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Here’s where you can get creative! A generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and an enthusiastic handful of fresh green onions truly make this dish pop. Try adding thinly sliced red chilies for a gentle kick or a drizzle of spicy mayo if you want to bring a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe is begging for some cozy sides. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice to soak up all the glossy sauce, or toss it onto soba noodles for a heartier meal. Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy bring a vibrant crunch, while a cool cucumber salad balances the richness of the salmon beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress, skewer the salmon bites on cocktail sticks for a fun party appetizer or tuck them into lettuce wraps with shredded carrots and a quick pickled veggie slaw. Want to go bento box style? Add a serving of sticky rice, a few pieces of sushi, and some edamame for a totally Instagram-worthy lunch spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers from your Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The salmon stays good for up to 2 days, maintaining both its flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to store the sauce and salmon together so the flavors continue to mingle and shine.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to do so before tossing the salmon in the sauce. Freeze the cooked salmon cubes, then thaw and reheat before combining them with some fresh glaze. This helps preserve the texture and stops the sauce from separating or getting too watery on defrosting.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat your salmon bites in a skillet over low to medium heat. This keeps the fish tender and prevents drying out. If using the microwave, add a splash of water and cover loosely—just be careful not to overcook, as salmon can dry up fast when reheated.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for the Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before cubing and cooking, which will give you the best sear and texture.
What’s the best way to make teriyaki sauce at home?
A quick homemade teriyaki comes together with equal parts soy sauce and mirin or honey, a splash of rice vinegar, and a bit of garlic and ginger. Simmer until slightly thickened, then use as directed!
Is it necessary to marinate the salmon beforehand?
While marinating isn’t essential for flavor, letting the salmon soak in teriyaki sauce for 15–30 minutes before cooking can add extra depth and make every bite even more memorable.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
You sure can! Opt for gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and check your teriyaki sauce label for hidden gluten ingredients. The rest of the recipe stays the same.
What proteins can I swap in if I don’t have salmon?
This technique and sauce are equally fantastic with cubed chicken, tofu, or even shrimp—just adjust the cooking time to match your substitute for best results.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you’ll treat yourself and the people you love to this Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe—it’s one of those meals that never fails to make me smile. With its unbeatable flavors, ease, and versatility, it deserves a top spot in your weeknight dinner rotation. Happy cooking!
Print
Teriyaki Salmon Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Teriyaki Salmon Bites are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Tender salmon bites are seared to perfection and coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice, noodles, or steamed veggies for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Salmon Bites:
- 1 ½ lbs skinless salmon fillets (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
- sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon cubes dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear Salmon: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear salmon cubes until golden and cooked through.
- Make Teriyaki Sauce: In the same skillet, combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Simmer and thicken with cornstarch slurry if desired.
- Coat Salmon: Toss salmon bites in the sauce and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve warm over preferred base.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon cubes in teriyaki sauce for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
- Use low-sodium sauces to control salt levels.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
