Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites Recipe

These Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites are packed with bold flavors and an irresistible crunch. Marinated in a sweet and spicy glaze, seared to perfection, and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, these bite-sized salmon pieces make for a quick and easy appetizer, protein-packed meal, or fun party dish.

The crispy caramelized exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky inside, while the spicy honey glaze adds a touch of heat balanced by a hint of sweetness. Serve them with a creamy spicy mayo dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor. These salmon bites are gluten-free, protein-rich, and can be made in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Salmon Bites:

1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 tablespoon neutral oil (for frying, such as avocado or vegetable oil)

For the Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce:

¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon lime juice
Pinch of garlic powder

For Garnish:

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white and black)
2 green onions, finely chopped
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the marinade stick better and ensures a crispier texture when cooking.

2. Marinate the Salmon

In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sriracha, sesame oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the salmon pieces and gently toss until fully coated. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the dipping sauce.

3. Make the Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed. Set aside for serving.

4. Coat the Salmon for Crispiness

Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated salmon pieces and gently toss until evenly coated. This step helps create a crispy crust when pan-seared.

5. Cook the Salmon Bites

Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.

Once hot, add the salmon pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch (cook in batches if necessary). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden brown on the edges while still tender inside. Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon juicy.

6. Garnish & Serve

Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with the spicy mayo dipping sauce and lemon wedges on the side.

Cooking Tips & Notes

Achieving the Best Texture

Pat the salmon dry before marinating to remove excess moisture and ensure a crispier crust.
Cornstarch is key to creating a crispy coating—don’t skip this step!
Cook in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of searing.

Adjusting the Spice Level

Reduce or omit the sriracha if you prefer a milder version.
Add a dash of red pepper flakes or extra sriracha for more heat.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

Storage & Meal Prep

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispiness—avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon soft.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Spicy Salmon Bites pair well with:

Steamed jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
A fresh cucumber and red onion salad to add crunch and balance.
Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.
Tucked into lettuce wraps or tacos for a fresh twist.

This recipe delivers the perfect blend of crispy, spicy, and savory flavors, making it an irresistible dish for seafood lovers. Enjoy these bites as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep option—you won’t be disappointed!