Crispy, golden seared salmon cubes drizzled with a rich and velvety garlic butter sauce, sprinkled with fresh herbs — a mouthwatering, elegant dish perfect for appetizers, light lunches, or a fancy seafood platter. This recipe brings out the natural richness of salmon, enhanced by a luscious garlic butter sauce that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seared Salmon Bites with Garlic Butter Sauce offers the perfect combination of simplicity and elegance. The crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior of the salmon, paired with the creamy garlic butter sauce, create an irresistible flavor profile. It is quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and makes an impressive dish whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a seafood spread. Its versatility and rich flavor will make it a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Season the salmon cubes with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add salmon cubes and sear on each side for about 2 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

6. Return the salmon bites to the pan and spoon the sauce over them.

7. Garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people as an appetizer or 2 as a light main course. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes. The total time required is around 20 minutes.

Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of spice.

• Substitute dill or parsley for chives if preferred.

• Use a splash of white wine instead of lemon juice for a deeper flavor.

• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

• Serve the salmon bites over a bed of rice or mixed greens for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of butter to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the salmon and make it dry.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.

How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan?

Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the salmon, and avoid moving the pieces too soon to allow a crust to form.

Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it. Gently reheat it before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or coconut cream are good alternatives depending on your dietary needs.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.

Should the salmon be cooked through or left slightly rare?

Aim for just-cooked salmon for the best texture; it should be opaque but still moist inside.

Can I use other fish for this recipe?

Firm white fish like cod or halibut can also work well with this preparation.

How thick should the salmon cubes be?

Cut them into about 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.

Can I serve this dish cold?

While it is best served warm, it can be enjoyed cold over a salad.

What herbs besides chives pair well with this dish?

Parsley, dill, or tarragon also complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Seared Salmon Bites with Garlic Butter Sauce delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The rich, buttery sauce enhances the naturally tender salmon, creating a dish that is both refined and approachable. Whether you are preparing a special appetizer or a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe promises to impress with its luxurious taste and elegant presentation.

Seared Salmon Bites with Garlic Butter Sauce

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 as an appetizer
• Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
• Method: Pan-Searing
• Cuisine: American, Seafood
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Seared Salmon Bites with Garlic Butter Sauce are crispy, golden, and tender salmon cubes finished with a luscious garlic butter cream sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This elegant yet simple seafood dish is perfect as an appetizer, light lunch, or an impressive addition to any seafood platter!

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Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

• Season the salmon cubes with salt and pepper.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add the salmon cubes and sear on each side for about 2 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

• In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

• Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

• Return the salmon bites to the pan and spoon the sauce over them.

• Garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.

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Notes

• Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender inside.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Serve over rice, quinoa, or salad greens for a complete meal.

• Best served immediately to maintain the crispy texture.