Description
These Pan-Seared Salmon Bites are a quick and flavorful appetizer or main dish featuring tender salmon cubes seasoned with smoked paprika and spices, seared to crispy perfection, and finished with fresh garlic and lemon juice. Perfect for a healthy, delicious meal served warm with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Bites
- 2 salmon fillets, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the salmon: Toss the salmon cubes with smoked paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and optional chili flakes to evenly coat each piece with the spices.
- Heat the pan: In a large pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Heat until the butter melts completely and the mixture is hot but not smoking.
- Sear the salmon: Place the salmon cubes in a single layer in the hot pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy, then carefully flip and cook the other side for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic around the salmon bites and cook for about 30 seconds, taking care to prevent the garlic from burning and turning bitter.
- Finish with lemon: Remove the pan from the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon bites, enhancing their brightness and flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the salmon bites and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a spicier version, do not omit the chili flakes.
- Ensure the pan and fat are sufficiently hot before adding salmon to get a good sear.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus twist.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
