Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Searing · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
Quick Answer
These delightful salmon bites seared to perfection and served with a luscious garlic cream sauce are the ideal addition to any holiday gathering.
As the brisk NYC air starts to whisper of the holiday season, it’s the perfect time to elevate our gatherings with culinary delights. This recipe for salmon bites with garlic cream sauce isn’t just a dish; it’s a little taste of celebration, filled with bright flavors and comforting textures that will make any Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering truly special.
A Delicious Holiday Accompaniment
These succulent salmon bites are not only easy to prepare but they also create an atmosphere of warmth and indulgence that everyone will appreciate during the festive season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly seared salmon bites that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- A rich garlic cream sauce that elevates the dish to a gourmet experience.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings.
- Versatile – these bites can serve as an appetizer or a main course.
- Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that enhance the flavors naturally.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create delicious salmon bites with garlic cream sauce:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 pound of fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create perfectly crispy salmon bites accompanied by a rich garlic cream sauce.
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by cutting the fresh salmon fillet into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, gently toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and freshly grated lemon zest. The aroma will immediately enhance your kitchen!
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon bites in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Be careful when flipping them to keep that perfect sear!
Step 3: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
Once the salmon is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter until it foams, then add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and watch as it creates a rich sauce.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Whisk in the Dijon mustard, and add salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a luscious sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the salmon bites to the skillet and gently toss them in the sauce. Allow them to warm through for 1-2 minutes before serving immediately, garnished with fresh parsley. The presentation is as delightful as the taste!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon can dry out quickly. Watch the cooking time, especially when searing.
- Using Old Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to a flavorful sauce. Avoid the pre-minced stuff for the best taste.
- Skimping on Seasoning: Don’t hold back on salt and pepper in both the salmon and sauce; it enhances everything.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Choosing Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible; it has a richer flavor and better texture compared to farmed.
- Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially the garlic and cream, to elevate your dish.
- Serving Idea: These salmon bites make for great appetizers or can be served over a bed of sautéed greens for a more substantial dish.
Variations
- Replace salmon with tuna or shrimp for different seafood options.
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.
- Incorporate different herbs like dill or chives for a flavor twist.
- Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for an extra citrusy kick.
How to Serve
- Serve the salmon bites as appetizers on toothpicks for easy eating.
- Pair them with a fresh salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- Over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salmon bites and sauce separately in advance, then combine just before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture.
- Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the sauce may separate upon reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
In testing this delicious recipe, I learned that the balance of creamy and savory elements truly enhances the inherent flavors of the salmon. Taking that extra moment to really sear the fish adds depth to the dish that you’ll absolutely love!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 4 salmon bites with sauce
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 25g protein · 5g carbs · 26g fat
Savory Seared Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the fresh salmon fillet into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, gently toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and freshly grated lemon zest.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon bites in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Once the salmon is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter until it foams, then add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk.
- Whisk in the Dijon mustard, and add salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a luscious sauce.
- Return the salmon bites to the skillet and gently toss them in the sauce. Allow them to warm through for 1-2 minutes before serving immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking for the best results.
2. How can I tell when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s done. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the garlic cream sauce?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the texture and richness may differ slightly.
4. Can I prepare the garlic cream sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the garlic cream sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before tossing with the salmon.
5. What side dishes pair well with salmon bites?
These salmon bites pair wonderfully with sautéed greens, a fresh salad, or even over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
