Introduction
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites with Sticky Soy Sauce Glaze are bite-sized pieces of salmon, seared to perfection and coated in a sweet, savory, and slightly sticky glaze. This dish combines the natural richness of salmon with the robust flavors of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.
These salmon bites are ideal as an appetizer, main course, or even a fun finger food. They are quick to prepare, full of flavor, and make an impressive dish for family dinners, weeknight meals, or entertaining guests. Served over rice, noodles, or in lettuce cups, these bites are as versatile as they are delicious.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and full of bold flavor. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky coating that clings to every bite. Salmon cooks fast, making this a 20-minute wonder that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrients. It’s a dish that never fails to impress both visually and in taste.
Why This is a Must-Try Dish
- Quick and effortless: Ready in under 25 minutes.
- Flavor-packed: Sweet, savory, garlicky, and slightly tangy.
- Versatile: Serve as appetizer, main dish, or over rice/noodles.
- Nutritious: High in omega-3s, protein, and low in carbs.
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved: Appealing to all taste buds.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 5–10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 15–22 minutes
Servings & Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~350 per serving (depending on glaze quantity)
Course & Cuisine
- Course: Main Dish / Appetizer
- Cuisine: Asian / Fusion
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sticky Honey Garlic Soy Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thicker glaze)
Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and chili flakes. Mix well.
- Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon Bites
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season salmon cubes with salt and pepper.
- Add salmon to the skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until lightly golden but not fully cooked.
Step 3: Add the Glaze
- Reduce heat to medium and pour the honey garlic soy mixture over the salmon.
- Stir gently to coat salmon cubes in the glaze.
- If desired, add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the glaze slightly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until salmon is cooked through and the glaze is sticky.
How to Serve
- Serve hot over:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Jasmine or basmati rice
- Noodles or rice noodles
- Lettuce cups for a low-carb option
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Recipe Tips
- Cut salmon into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Do not overcook salmon; it cooks quickly and should remain tender.
- Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking and burning of the glaze.
- Adjust honey and soy sauce ratio to control sweetness and saltiness.
Variations
- Spicy: Add 1 tsp sriracha or more chili flakes for a kick.
- Tangy: Add 1 tsp lime juice or rice vinegar at the end for brightness.
- Nutty: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously or add chopped peanuts.
- Vegetable-packed: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the glaze step for a full stir-fry version.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigerator: Store cooked salmon bites in airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended; salmon texture changes when thawed.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2–3 minutes, adding a splash of water to loosen glaze if needed.
Special Equipment Needed
- Nonstick skillet or wok
- Small mixing bowl for glaze
- Spatula or tongs
FAQ
Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw completely before cutting into cubes for even cooking.
Q2: Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q3: Can I bake the salmon bites instead?
Yes, toss salmon cubes with glaze and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, tossing halfway through.
Q4: Can I make this low-sugar?
Yes, substitute honey with a sugar-free syrup or reduce honey slightly.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites with Sticky Soy Sauce Glaze are a quick, flavorful, and visually stunning dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or entertaining guests. The combination of tender salmon, sticky sweet-savory glaze, and fresh garnishes makes this recipe irresistible and versatile. Quick to prepare, healthy, and crowd-pleasing, this is a must-try recipe for salmon lovers.
Honey Garlic Salmon Bites with Sticky Soy Sauce Glaze
Course: Salmon RecipesCuisine: AsianDifficulty: easy4
servings10
minutes12
minutes22
minutesIngredients
For the Salmon Bites:
1 lb (450 g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sticky Honey Garlic Soy Glaze:
1/4 cup honey
3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)
1 tsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thicker glaze)
Garnish:
Sesame seeds
Chopped green onions
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and chili flakes. Mix well. Set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Salmon Bites: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon cubes with salt and pepper. Add salmon to the skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until lightly golden but not fully cooked.
- Step 3: Add the Glaze: Reduce heat to medium and pour the honey garlic soy mixture over the salmon. Stir gently to coat salmon cubes in the glaze. If desired, add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the glaze slightly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until salmon is cooked through and the glaze is sticky.