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This honey garlic salmon transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal that's both weeknight-friendly and impressive enough for guests. The sweet-savory glaze coats tender salmon cubes for a dish that disappears quickly from the dinner table every time I serve it.
I first created this recipe when trying to get my seafood-hesitant children to enjoy salmon, and now it's requested at least twice a month in our home. The bite-sized pieces and irresistible glaze make it appealing even to picky eaters.
Ingredients
- Salmon cubes: Providing lean protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Look for fresh, vibrant-colored fillets with no strong fishy odor
- Paprika: Adding mild sweetness and beautiful color. I recommend sweet Hungarian paprika for best flavor
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Creating depth without overwhelming the delicate salmon
- Olive oil: For searing the salmon to crispy perfection. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh minced garlic: Offering aromatic punch to the sauce. Always use fresh rather than jarred for best flavor
- Grated ginger: Adding warmth and brightness to balance the sweetness
- Soy sauce: Providing umami richness and salt. Low-sodium works well if you're watching salt intake
- Rice vinegar: Bringing necessary acidity to cut through the rich sauce
- Honey: Creating the glossy glaze and perfect sweetness. Local raw honey adds wonderful nuance
- Sesame seeds and chives for garnish: Adding texture and visual appeal
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the salmon:
- Thoroughly pat dry salmon cubes with paper towels. This crucial step ensures proper browning and prevents steaming. Season generously with the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and gently massage to coat every piece evenly. The seasoning creates a flavorful crust that seals in moisture.
- Sear the salmon:
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil until just shimmering. Arrange salmon cubes in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes, carefully flipping often to achieve golden crispiness on all sides while maintaining a tender interior. Work in batches to ensure proper browning, transferring cooked pieces to a plate.
- Build the sauce base:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil followed by minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for just one minute until fragrant but not browned. The residual salmon flavor in the pan enriches the sauce while the aromatic base creates depth.
- Create the glaze:
- Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes, reducing until it thickens to a glossy consistency that will cling beautifully to the salmon. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Combine and finish:
- Return the crispy salmon cubes to the skillet, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly with the sticky glaze. Check seasoning and adjust if needed. The heat should be low enough to coat the salmon without overcooking it.
- Serve and garnish:
- Transfer to a serving dish over steamed rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped chives for color, texture and fresh flavor. The presentation should showcase the glistening salmon pieces.
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The ginger is my secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power years ago when making this dish for my mother's birthday. She claimed it was better than any restaurant salmon she'd ever had, and now I never skip this humble ingredient that adds such brightness to the glaze.
Make-Ahead Options
This dish really shines when made fresh, but you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline dinner. Season the salmon cubes and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours before cooking. The sauce ingredients can be measured and combined (except for garlic and ginger) up to a day in advance. When ready to cook, simply sear the salmon and finish with the prepared sauce ingredients for a quick dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Perfect Pairings
The sweet-savory profile of this honey garlic salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides that allow it to shine. Steamed jasmine rice soaks up the delicious sauce while maintaining a clean flavor. For vegetables, consider steamed broccoli, sugar snap peas, or bok choy which complement without competing. A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar provides refreshing contrast to the rich salmon. For special occasions, serve with coconut rice and roasted asparagus for an elevated presentation that still comes together quickly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavor actually develops nicely overnight. For reheating, avoid the microwave which can make the salmon rubbery. Instead, place in a covered skillet over low heat with a tablespoon of water to create steam, warming just until heated through. You can also enjoy leftovers cold, flaked over a salad with mixed greens and avocado for a completely different but equally delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure the salmon is crispy?
Pat the salmon cubes completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding for the best crispiness.
- → Can I prepare this dish in an air fryer?
Yes, preheat your air fryer to 390°F and cook the salmon cubes for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- → What can I use as a substitute for soy sauce?
You can replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor in this dish.
- → Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before using to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- → What side dishes pair well with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots make excellent side dishes to complement the salmon.
- → How can I add some heat to this dish?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mix or sprinkle them on top before serving.