– **Title**: Hot Honey Salmon Bites
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
– Lemon wedges, for serving
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the salmon fillet into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces) and place them in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the salmon cubes and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon bites in a single layer.
6. Sear the salmon for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
9. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for this recipe. However, if you can’t find it, feel free to use skinless trout or even chicken breast cut into similar bite-sized pieces. They’ll cook up nicely with the same marinade.
Honey: The sweetness of honey is key, but if you’re vegan or avoiding honey, maple syrup works beautifully as a substitute. Just note that the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious!
Hot Sauce: Adjust the heat level based on your preference! A milder sauce like Sriracha works great, or try a dash of chili flakes for a different approach. Just remember, you can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it away!
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a nice, smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can substitute, but the dish will miss that smokiness. Add a tiny pinch of cumin for a different but nice flavor twist!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon Bites?
Cooking salmon bites can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time! First, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon. This helps get that nice golden crust.
- Heat the olive oil on medium-high until shimmering.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
- Cook on each side for 3-4 minutes. Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it.
- Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked fish.
How to Make Hot Honey Salmon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. With a quick marinade and cooking time, you’ll have a tasty and spicy dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until everything is well mixed. This will create a tasty sauce for your salmon bites, making them sweet and spicy!
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Add the bite-sized salmon pieces to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss the salmon so it’s evenly coated with the marinade. Allow the salmon to marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in, making every bite super delicious!
3. Cook the Salmon Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the marinated salmon bites to the skillet. Be sure to let the excess marinade drip off before placing them in the pan to avoid splattering.
4. Sear the Salmon:
Cook the salmon for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. If you want, you can baste the salmon with any extra marinade while they cook to enhance the flavor even more!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once the salmon bites are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of flavor. Now, sit back and enjoy your tasty Hot Honey Salmon Bites!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. The best way to thaw is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before cutting and marinating to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Hot Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute hot sauce with sriracha, chili paste, or even red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference, and feel free to experiment with other spicy condiments you have on hand!
How to Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to retain their flavor and texture. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can make the salmon rubbery.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the salmon bites up to 2 hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. If you need to make it even further ahead, cook and store them separately, then reheat as needed for the best results.
