Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Before cooking, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispy sear.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

Salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, as salmon can dry out quickly.

Can I bake these salmon bites instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the seasoned salmon bites on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I use instead of honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. If you prefer a sugar-free option, try monk fruit syrup.

Easy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites

Name: Easy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 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; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; ¼ cup honey; 2 teaspoons sesame seeds; 2 teaspoons chopped chives

Description

These honey garlic salmon bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a rich, sticky glaze made with honey, soy sauce, and garlic. This quick and healthy dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be served with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale

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
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
¼ cup honey
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
2 teaspoons chopped chives

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Instructions

Prepare the salmon: Pat dry the salmon cubes with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. In a bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon and toss until evenly coated.
Cook the salmon: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of olive oil. Place the salmon cubes in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for 4-5 minutes, flipping frequently, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Coat the salmon: Return the cooked salmon bites to the skillet and gently toss them in the honey garlic sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow them to cook for an additional minute to absorb the flavors.
Serve and garnish: Transfer the salmon to a serving plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped chives. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

For extra crispiness, let the salmon sit with the seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
This recipe can also be made in an air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
If you prefer a milder sweetness, reduce the honey by half or substitute with maple syrup.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-fried
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 380
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 75mg