Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites: A Flavor-Packed Delight for Any Occasion

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in just 25 minutes.

• Incredible Texture: Crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside.

• Balanced Flavors: The honey garlic glaze strikes a delicious sweet-savory balance.

• Versatile: Great as a main dish, party appetizer, or tossed in a salad or grain bowl.

• Healthy Twist: Naturally gluten-free and full of heart-healthy omega-3s.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ lb salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot for gluten-free)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for pan-searing)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• ¼ cup honey

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Sliced green onions

Directions

1. Prep the Salmon:
   I pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel, then season lightly with salt and pepper. I toss them gently in cornstarch until evenly coated—this is what gives them that irresistible crisp.

2. Sear the Bites:
   I heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, I add the salmon in a single layer, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Then I remove them from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
   In the same pan, I reduce the heat to medium. I add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then I stir in honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. I let it bubble for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Glaze the Salmon:
   I return the cooked salmon to the pan and toss gently in the sauce to coat each piece evenly. I let it simmer for 1–2 minutes more so everything melds together.

5. Serve & Garnish:
   I transfer the salmon bites to a plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for a finishing touch. I love serving it over jasmine rice, noodles, or with roasted vegetables.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Air Fryer Version: I spray the coated salmon bites with oil and air fry at 400°F for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway. Then I toss them in the sauce afterward.

• Add Veggies: I sometimes stir-fry broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas in the same pan before adding the sauce for a full meal in one pan.

• Spicier Kick: I add extra chili flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the sauce for more heat.

• Lighter Option: For fewer calories, I skip the cornstarch and simply sear the seasoned salmon directly, then glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• To reheat, I warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. I like to spoon a little water or extra sauce into the pan to help prevent dryness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, I’ve used frozen salmon often. I just make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before cutting and seasoning to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best way to get crispy salmon bites?

The key is patting the salmon dry, coating in cornstarch, and cooking in a hot pan without overcrowding. This gives me that perfect golden crust every time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I like to prepare the sauce and cut the salmon in advance, but I always cook it fresh for the best texture. Reheated salmon can lose some crispness.

Is there a substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or brown sugar both work well in place of honey. The flavor will vary slightly, but still tastes great.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

Yes! I place the coated salmon cubes on a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 400°F for about 12–14 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Then I toss them in the sauce before serving.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites are one of my go-to recipes when I need something fast, tasty, and a little different. They come together quickly, pack a ton of flavor, and are easily customizable based on what I have in the fridge. Whether I’m cooking for family, meal prepping, or just treating myself, this dish always delivers.

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