Blackened Honey Glazed Salmon Bites: Sweet, Smoky, And easy

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and restaurant-quality seafood dish, then these Blackened Honey Glazed Salmon Bites are a must-try. Not only are they juicy and tender, but they are also coated in a bold blackened seasoning and finished with a sticky, sweet honey glaze. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family, meal prepping for the week, or serving an impressive appetizer, this dish is the perfect choice.

However, cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky. That’s why this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from seasoning and searing to glazing and serving.

Looking for more delicious salmon ideas? Try these Salmon Bites in Oven for a baked alternative!

In this article, we’ll cover:

How to blacken salmon for the best crispy crust
The perfect honey glaze for a sweet and spicy balance
Tips for achieving restaurant-style texture at home
Variations, serving ideas, and storage tips

So, without further ado, let’s dive into this irresistible salmon bites recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Blackened Honey Glazed Salmon Bites

The Blackened Seasoning:

1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salmon Bites:

1 pound fresh salmon fillets, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Honey Glaze:

¼ cup honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 clove garlic, minced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Bites

First, pat the salmon pieces dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the seasoning stick better.

Next, in a small bowl, mix all the blackened seasoning ingredients together. Then, toss the salmon bites in olive oil, making sure they are well coated. After that, sprinkle the blackened seasoning mix evenly over the salmon, ensuring every piece is fully covered.

Step 2: Cook the Blackened Salmon Bites

To begin, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer.

Let them cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Meanwhile, avoid moving them around too much so they can sear properly. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Glaze

Now, lower the heat to medium and, in the same skillet, add honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Stir everything together and allow the glaze to simmer for about 2 minutes until it slightly thickens. This step is important because it helps the flavors blend well.

Step 4: Glaze the Salmon Bites

Once the glaze is ready, return the cooked salmon bites to the pan. Then, gently toss them in the glaze so that each piece is well coated.

Let them cook for another minute or so, allowing the glaze to caramelize and stick to the salmon. As a result, you’ll get beautifully glazed bites with a sweet and smoky finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds for extra flavor and color.

For an even more satisfying meal, serve these salmon bites with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables

Tips for the Best Blackened Honey Glazed Salmon Bites

Use fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor. While frozen salmon can work, fresh fillets will give you superior results.
Don’t overcrowd the pan because the salmon needs space to develop a nice crust. Otherwise, the fish will steam instead of searing.
Adjust the spice level by reducing cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder heat. On the other hand, you can add extra red pepper flakes for more kick.
Let the glaze thicken slightly before adding the salmon back into the pan. This helps the sauce coat the bites beautifully and enhances the overall taste.

Variations and Serving Ideas

Ways to Enjoy Blackened Salmon Bites

Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with salmon, slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema.
Salad: Toss with greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette.
Rice Bowl: Serve over jasmine rice with steamed broccoli and avocado.
Pasta: Mix into a creamy Cajun pasta for a spicy seafood dish.

Substitutions

Salmon Alternatives: Try shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a different twist.
Honey Replacement: Use maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer.
Soy Sauce Alternative: Swap it with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

For a complete meal, serve these salmon bites with this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the salmon bites without the glaze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet with a splash of water.
Oven: Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.

Love seafood? Don’t miss these Scallops in Shell for an elegant and easy dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is blackened seasoning?

Blackened seasoning is a blend of smoky, spicy, and aromatic spices commonly used in Cajun and Creole cooking. It creates a flavorful crust when seared at high heat.

2. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes! Simply air-fry the seasoned salmon at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway. Then, toss with the honey glaze before serving.

3. How do I prevent salmon from overcooking?

Since salmon cooks quickly, keep an eye on it. Remove it from the pan once it reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F, as it will continue cooking off heat.

4. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to one week. Just reheat it gently before using.

5. What sides go well with blackened honey glazed salmon bites?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a well-balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

These Blackened Honey Glazed Salmon Bites offer a delicious combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or part of your meal prep, they are incredibly easy to make and packed with nutrition.

So, why not give them a try? We’d love to hear how you enjoyed them!

If you’re a fan of seafood, check out our guide on Canned Salmon Burgers for another quick and healthy meal idea!

Blackened Honey Glazed Salmon Bites: A Flavor-Packed Recipe