If you’re looking to add a vibrant punch to your weeknight dinners, this Hot Honey Salmon Bites Recipe is a total game changer. Juicy chunks of salmon baked to perfection, kissed with smoky spices, and then tossed in a luscious drizzle of spicy-sweet hot honey create an irresistible balance of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, these bites bring a dazzling combination of heat, sweetness, and flaky tenderness that will make you reach for seconds without hesitation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the flavors just right in this recipe is straightforward thanks to a handful of simple but crucial ingredients. Each one plays a distinct role, from delivering richness and spice to creating that perfect caramelized finish on the salmon.
- Salmon fillet (2 pounds): Fresh, firm salmon cut into bite-sized pieces ensures flaky, tender bites.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons, extra virgin): Adds moisture and helps spices adhere beautifully to the salmon.
- Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): Provides a subtle, savory depth without overpowering the fish.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers a smoky warmth that complements the hot honey glaze perfectly.
- Salt (¾ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Brings a gentle kick and earthy undertones.
- Hot honey (¼ cup): The star ingredient delivering that signature sweet heat for bursting flavor.
How to Make Hot Honey Salmon Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Meanwhile, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the salmon from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Place the salmon pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil and gently toss using a spoon to coat evenly. Then sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the chunks. Stir again carefully until every piece is beautifully seasoned with that smoky, spicy mix.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
Arrange the salmon pieces in a single even layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch each other. This helps them bake evenly and get nicely crisped edges. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes until the fish is cooked through and opaque.
Step 4: Add Hot Honey and Broil
Remove the baking sheet after 10 minutes, then use a spatula to gather the salmon pieces into a single pile. Drizzle them generously with the hot honey, stirring gently to coat every bite in that sweet and spicy glaze. Spread the salmon back into a single layer and place the tray under the broiler. Keep a close eye as the honey caramelizes, and broil until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Once broiled to perfection, take the salmon bites out of the oven. They’re best enjoyed hot, so serve immediately to appreciate the combination of flavors and textures at their peak.
How to Serve Hot Honey Salmon Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish visually and texturally, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top. A quick squeeze of lime can add a zesty brightness that balances the rich honey glaze beautifully.
Side Dishes
Salmon bites pair wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Fresh avocado slices and crisp cucumber ribbons bring a refreshing contrast, while a light green salad adds a crisp bite to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these salmon bites on small toasted baguette slices with a smear of cream cheese or goat cheese underneath. They also make fantastic toppings for grain bowls or can be skewered for easy party finger foods that are sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Hot Honey Salmon Bites Recipe should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making a delicious quick lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked salmon bites, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you must freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag once firm. Use within 1 month for best flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon bites in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a low oven to preserve moisture and prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the fish rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture that can affect the cooking process.
What can I substitute for hot honey if I don’t have any?
If hot honey isn’t available, mix regular honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes as an easy homemade alternative that still provides a nice kick.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level is moderate and balanced by the sweetness of the honey. You can adjust the amount of hot honey to make it milder or spicier based on your preference.
Do I need to remove the skin from the salmon?
It’s up to you. Salmon skin can crisp up nicely during baking and adds extra texture, but if you prefer skinless bites, just remove it before cutting.
Can I prepare this recipe on the stovetop instead of the oven?
While baking and broiling provide the best caramelization, you could pan-sear the seasoned salmon bites in a hot skillet, then drizzle with hot honey and briefly broil or cover to meld the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Honey Salmon Bites Recipe is one of those dishes that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The luscious blend of smoky spices and that unforgettable hot honey glaze turns simple salmon into a flavor-packed morsel you’ll want again and again. Give it a try and watch how quickly these bites disappear, bringing smiles to your table every time.
Print
Hot Honey Salmon Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 13 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and flavorful Hot Honey Salmon Bites, perfectly baked and broiled to achieve a golden finish, coated with a spicy and sweet hot honey glaze. This easy recipe yields tender salmon pieces that are ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer, served best with rice and fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 2 pounds salmon fillet with skin on or off, cut into 1–2 inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce
- ¼ cup hot honey
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to get ready for baking the salmon bites. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Season Salmon: Place the salmon pieces into a large bowl. Drizzle with the extra virgin olive oil and use a spoon to gently coat all pieces. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the salmon and stir gently to ensure an even coating.
- Bake Salmon: Arrange the seasoned salmon pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until the salmon starts to cook through.
- Add Hot Honey and Broil: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a spatula, gather the salmon pieces into a single pile and drizzle the hot honey over them. Stir gently to coat the salmon thoroughly, then spread them back out in a single layer.
- Broil for Golden Finish: Place the baking sheet under the broiler. Broil the salmon for a few minutes, watching carefully, until the edges become golden brown and caramelized. Avoid burning by monitoring closely.
- Serve: Remove the salmon bites from the oven. Serve hot accompanied by rice, avocado, cucumbers, and an optional drizzle of extra hot honey for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure salmon pieces are similarly sized for even cooking.
- Use a high-smoke point olive oil for best flavor and heat tolerance.
- Watch the broiler closely as salmon can burn quickly.
- Adjust hot honey quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- Salmon skin can be left on or removed based on personal preference.
