Honey Butter Garlic Glazed Salmon Bites

There’s something undeniably irresistible about a dish that’s both sweet and savory, especially when it comes together in just minutes. These Honey Butter Garlic Glazed Salmon Bites are bite-sized pieces of tender, flaky salmon coated in a rich, buttery, garlicky glaze with just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun party appetizer, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

The combination of honey, butter, and garlic creates a sauce that’s both luxurious and comforting. As the salmon cooks, it soaks up all that delicious glaze, caramelizing beautifully while staying incredibly moist. Serve these salmon bites over rice, with roasted vegetables, or even tossed into a fresh salad for an easy, flavorful meal.

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying way to enjoy salmon, this is the recipe for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Incredibly Flavorful – The balance of sweet honey, rich butter, and savory garlic makes each bite absolutely delicious.
• Perfect Texture – The salmon bites get beautifully caramelized on the outside while staying juicy inside.
• Versatile – Serve them with rice, pasta, or veggies, or even use them in tacos or grain bowls.
• Healthy & Wholesome – Packed with protein and omega-3s, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon Bites:

• 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized cubes
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

For Garnishing:

• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
• Sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make Honey Butter Garlic Glazed Salmon Bites

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Start by cutting your salmon fillet into bite-sized cubes. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps them cook evenly and develop a nice sear.

Season the salmon pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Toss them gently to ensure each piece is well coated with seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the salmon bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Let the salmon cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, allowing the edges to crisp up. Then, carefully flip and cook for another 2 minutes until golden brown. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Butter Garlic Glaze

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice, stirring everything together. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until it slightly thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 4: Coat the Salmon in the Glaze

Return the cooked salmon bites to the skillet and toss them gently in the honey butter garlic glaze. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring they’re well coated and the glaze has slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove the salmon from the heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of flavor. If you love a bit of crunch, add some sesame seeds on top.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Salmon – Fresh salmon works best for this recipe. If using frozen, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cooking the salmon in batches if necessary will ensure a good sear and even cooking.
• Adjust the Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the honey slightly or add an extra splash of lemon juice.
• Make It Spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a bit of heat.
• Air Fryer Option – Cook the salmon bites in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, then toss them in the glaze.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course, Appetizer
• Method: Pan-Seared
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Pescatarian

Notes

• Choosing the Right Salmon: Opt for skinless, boneless salmon fillets for easy prep. If using skin-on salmon, you can remove the skin before cutting or cook with it on for extra crispiness.
• Cooking in Batches: If your pan isn’t large enough, cook the salmon bites in batches to ensure they sear properly and don’t steam. Overcrowding the pan can prevent a golden-brown crust from forming.
• Balancing Flavors: If the glaze is too sweet for your taste, add an extra splash of lemon juice or a pinch of salt to balance it out.
• Alternative Cooking Methods:
  • Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Then, toss the salmon in the glaze.
  • Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, then brush with the glaze and broil for 1-2 minutes for caramelization.
• Thicker Glaze: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the glaze simmer for an extra minute or two, or stir in ½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water to slightly thicken it.
• Serving Ideas: These salmon bites taste amazing over steamed rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or inside lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Fish?

Yes! This recipe works well with cod, tilapia, or even shrimp if you want to switch it up.

How Do I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make this recipe completely gluten-free.

What Can I Serve with Honey Butter Garlic Salmon Bites?

These salmon bites pair wonderfully with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Roasted or stir-fried vegetables
• Quinoa or couscous
• Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

While these salmon bites taste best fresh, you can prep the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked salmon when ready to serve.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing:

If you’d like to freeze the salmon bites, cook them without the glaze first. Once cooled, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Reheat and toss with the glaze when ready to serve.

Reheating:

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may make the salmon dry.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Honey Butter Garlic Glazed Salmon Bites, here are a few more dishes you might enjoy:

• Salmon Rice Bowls – A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal
• Marry Me Salmon: A Dish Worth Falling For
• Crispy and Flavorful Air Fryer Salmon Bites
• Bang Bang Salmon Bites: A Bite-Sized Explosion of Flavor

Conclusion

These Honey Butter Garlic Glazed Salmon Bites are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. The rich, buttery glaze with hints of sweet honey and garlicky goodness makes every bite absolutely delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick dinner, an appetizer, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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