Easy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites
These honey garlic salmon bites are incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Tender, flaky salmon glazed with a shimmering honey garlic sauce that's both sweet and savory create a symphony of flavors. They're perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Paper towels
- Mixing bowls (small and medium)
- Whisk
- Large skillet or baking sheet or air fryer
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper (for baking option)
- Air fryer (for air fryer option)
- Thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium preferred
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated evenly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add the slurry to the honey garlic mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon bites in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to work in batches.
- Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet with the cooked salmon bites. Stir gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy. Keep stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle the Honey Garlic Salmon Bites with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or as an appetizer.
- For Oven-Baked Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place seasoned salmon bites in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through. Transfer to a bowl and toss with honey garlic sauce. Garnish and serve.
- For Air Fryer Option: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C), if required. Place seasoned salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, don't overcrowd. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly crispy. Transfer to a bowl and toss with honey garlic sauce. Garnish and serve.
Notes
Don't overcook the salmon! Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) internally. Taste the honey garlic sauce before adding it to the salmon and adjust the sweetness or spice to your liking. To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Store leftover Honey Garlic Salmon Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Freezing is not recommended.