Crispy, Saucy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites in a Skillet
Honey garlic salmon bites with a tantalizing buttery rich glaze that gets drizzled over each morsel for a punch of flavor. Each one is pan-seared to perfection and simmered in sauce then garnished with cilantro and sesame seeds before serving. They make an amazing quick and easy 30 minute dinner or can be served as an impressive appetizer. The spice level is adjustable and can go from mild to spicy with a quick adjustment too.
In a medium bowl mix tamari, lemon juice, paprika, honey, garlic, ginger, and chili sauce. Whisk until honey is dissolved. Add salmon cubes to the mixture.
While salmon cubes marinate for 5 minutes, bring a large rimmed skillet to medium-high heat. Add avocado oil and tilt pan to spread oil. It should be hot enough for the oil to spread but not so hot that it smokes.
Place salmon cubes into the pan, reserving marinade. Let sear for about 2 minutes. If using butter, add to pan now and let it melt alongside the salmon cubes.
Flip each salmon cube over using a flat thin spatula. Pour marinade into pan and let come to a simmer, mixing with the butter (if using) while salmon finishes cooking (1-2 minutes). Tilt pan to spread the sauce around and coat all of the cubes.
Remove salmon pieces from heat to a serving plate or onto individual plates or bowls.
If sauce is too thin, return pan with sauce to the heat and let simmer for another 1-2 minutes to thicken.
Use a basting brush or spoon to spread any leftover sauce onto the salmon cubes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro and serve right away.
Notes
To prep salmon, remove any bones with tweezers and use a sharp knife to peel the salmon skin away.
It's best eaten fresh but can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and rewarm or eat cold.
To make in the air fryer:
preheat to 400° (205° C).
Add quick marinated salmon cubes to air fryer basket or tray leaving space between each one (can line with parchment to make clean up faster).
Air fry for 4-6 minutes until cooked but not overly dry.
While salmon is cooking, simmer marinade in a small sauce pan over medium heat, whisking to prevent burning, until it reduces and thickens (3-5 minutes).
Gently toss salmon cubes in sauce, garnish and serve immediately.