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Golden caramelized pan-seared salmon bites coated in honey garlic glaze and coarse black pepper on a white plate.

Pan-Seared Salmon Bites

rispy, caramelized Pan-Seared Salmon Bites tossed in a glistening honey garlic lemon glaze. Made in just 15 minutes, this healthy Mediterranean recipe is packed with omega-3s and big flavor!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:
  • 1.5 lbs skinless salmon fillets cut into 1-inch bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp coarse cracked black pepper
  • ½ tsp sea salt
For the Honey Garlic Lemon Glaze:
  • 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter or additional EVOO for dairy-free
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 2 tbsp raw honey
  • 1 tbsp low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For Garnish:
  • 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
  • Extra coarse cracked black pepper

Method
 

Prep & Season:
  1. Pat the salmon cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels. Place them into a bowl, drizzle with 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, coarse cracked black pepper, and sea salt. Toss gently to coat evenly.
Pan Sear:
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon cubes in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and cook for 2 minutes more. Transfer salmon onto a plate.
Make Glaze:
  1. Reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter (or oil) in the skillet, add minced garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in raw honey, low-sodium tamari, and fresh lemon juice. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until bubbling and glossy.
Toss & Serve:
  1. Return salmon bites to the skillet and toss gently in the glaze for 1 minute until well coated. Turn off heat, garnish with fresh parsley and extra cracked black pepper, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Air Fryer Alternative: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Air fry seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer for 7–9 minutes, shaking basket halfway. Whisk cooked glaze ingredients together separately and toss with air-fried salmon before serving.
  • Dairy-Free Swap: Replace the unsalted butter in the glaze with an equal amount of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
  • Gluten-Free Swap: Ensure low-sodium tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce is used.