Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Crispy and flavorful, Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are perfect for appetizers or a quick dinner. With their sweet-savory glaze and delightful crunch, these bites elevate any gathering or weeknight meal. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 25 minutes, these bites are perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Flavor Explosion: The honey garlic glaze creates a deliciously sticky coating that enhances the rich taste of salmon.
- Versatile Dish: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or even over rice for a complete meal.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these salmon bites are a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors from the glaze and garnishes make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Honey Garlic Salmon Bites successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure your salmon turns out perfectly every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy flipping of the salmon cubes without breaking them.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating the salmon with spices and oil, ensuring even coating.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 680 grams salmon, skinless, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.75 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Glaze
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 60 millilitres honey
For Garnish
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives
How to Make Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Gently pat salmon dry with paper towels. Transfer to a bowl and toss with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil to evenly coat the cubes.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange half the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer and sear for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and edges are crisp. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining salmon cubes.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic.
Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Stir thoroughly and simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Glaze the Salmon Bites
Return seared salmon cubes to the skillet. Gently toss them to glaze evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional minute until heated through.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped chives over the glazed salmon bites before serving immediately. Enjoy!
How to Serve Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
These Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
Appetizer Platter
- Serve the salmon bites on a large platter with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties or gatherings.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Place the salmon bites over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, allowing the glaze to soak into the grains for added flavor.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair the salmon bites with a fresh salad. The crispness of greens complements the sweet-savory flavors of the salmon beautifully.
Wraps or Tacos
- Use lettuce leaves or soft tortillas to create wraps with the salmon bites, adding fresh vegetables and a drizzle of extra sauce for a tasty meal.
As a Rice Bowl
- Create a rice bowl with sautéed vegetables, and top it with honey garlic salmon for a nutritious and satisfying dish.
How to Perfect Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
To achieve the best results when making Honey Garlic Salmon Bites, consider these helpful tips.
- Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy exterior when searing.
- Even Cubes: Cut the salmon into even cubes for uniform cooking. This ensures that all pieces cook at the same rate.
- Preheat Your Pan: Always heat your skillet before adding oil and salmon. A hot pan helps create that perfect sear.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing, affecting texture.
- Monitor Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on your sauce as it simmers. It should thicken slightly but not become too sticky or caramelized.
Best Side Dishes for Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Pairing side dishes with your Honey Garlic Salmon Bites can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and crunch that balances the sweetness of the salmon.
- Coconut Rice: Fluffy coconut rice provides a creamy backdrop that complements the flavors of honey garlic beautifully.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness while enhancing Asian-inspired flavors.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick stir-fried seasonal vegetables tossed in soy sauce bring additional texture and nutrition to your plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside the crispy bites of salmon.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to rich flavors, making it an ideal side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Honey Garlic Salmon Bites can be simple, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect.
- Not drying the salmon properly: If you skip patting the salmon dry, it may not sear properly and could end up soggy. Always use paper towels for a dry surface before seasoning.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many salmon cubes in the skillet at once can lower the cooking temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Cook in batches for that crispy texture.
- Ignoring the sauce’s consistency: If you don’t let the sauce simmer long enough, it may be too thin and won’t coat the salmon well. Aim for a slightly thickened glaze for better flavor adhesion.
- Skipping the garnish: Not adding sesame seeds and chives can make your dish look less appealing. These add visual flair and enhance flavor, so don’t skip them!
- Serving without letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking might lead to hot spots. Allowing it to rest for a minute helps distribute the flavors evenly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
Freezing Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Best used within 1-2 months.
Reheating Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method retains crispiness.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make it chewy.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a non-stick skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cut salmon for Honey Garlic Salmon Bites?
Cutting the salmon into even 2.5 cm cubes ensures they cook evenly and get that perfect sear.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and patted dry before preparing your Honey Garlic Salmon Bites.
How can I customize my Honey Garlic Salmon Bites?
Feel free to adjust spices or add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for an extra crunch!
Are there any substitutes for soy sauce?
You can use tamari or coconut aminos as great alternatives if you’re looking for gluten-free options.
How do I know when my salmon is cooked?
Salmon should be opaque and easily flake apart with a fork when fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are not only delicious but also versatile! They make for an excellent appetizer or main course and can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or spices. Try this recipe today, and enjoy these flavorful bites that are sure to impress anyone at your table!
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Honey Garlic Salmon Bites, a quick and easy dish that combines crispy salmon with a sweet-savory glaze. Perfect as appetizers or a light meal, these bites are sure to impress at any gathering. The honey garlic sauce elevates the rich taste of salmon while providing a beautiful, sticky coating that adds to the overall appeal. The vibrant colors and crunchy texture make these bites not only delicious but visually stunning as well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately four servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients
- 680 grams salmon (skinless, cut into 2.5 cm cubes)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.75 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 60 millilitres honey
- For garnish: sesame seeds and finely chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and place it in a bowl. Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear half the salmon cubes for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining cubes.
- Lower heat to medium, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan, and sauté minced garlic and ginger for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey; stir well and simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return seared salmon cubes to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the glaze. Cook for an additional minute until heated through.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped chives before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About three salmon bites
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
