Description
Quick and easy pan-seared salmon bites, seasoned with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs Salmon fillet, skin removed and pin bones taken out
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil, extra virgin
- 1 tablespoon Butter, unsalted
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 1 Lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch to 1.5-inch bite-sized pieces.
- Season the Salmon: In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the salmon bites and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Marinate: Let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator, covered).
- Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook: Carefully place the salmon bites in the hot skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C). Cook in batches if necessary.
- Remove and Drain: Remove the salmon bites from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use high-quality salmon for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the salmon; it should flake easily with a fork.
- A hot skillet is essential for a good sear.
- Pat the salmon dry before searing to prevent steaming.
- Season generously to enhance the flavor.
- Letting the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful dish.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Add sweetness with a honey-soy glaze during the last minute of cooking.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill, chives, or rosemary.
- Make it gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free.
- Add a crust by dipping the salmon bites in panko breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before searing.
- Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces, add to salads, serve over rice or quinoa, use as a topping for tacos or nachos, or serve alongside roasted vegetables.
- Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes