Description
A delightful and versatile Salmon Bites recipe featuring tender, bite-sized pieces of seasoned and cooked salmon, offering a choice between a healthier baked version and a more indulgent fried option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 fresh salmon fillet
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Lemon zest (from half a lemon)
- Dill (1 teaspoon, chopped)
- Garlic (1 clove, minced)
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Butter (1 tablespoon)
- Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or chives – 1 tablespoon, chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Select fresh salmon and, if using a whole fish, descale it by gently scraping off scales. Rinse the salmon under cold water, pat it dry, and fillet it into bite-sized pieces. Trim any dark, fatty areas for a cleaner flavor.
- Seasoning:
- Generously season the salmon with salt and pepper. Consider adding lemon zest, dill, garlic, or paprika for extra flavor. Allow the seasoned salmon to rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Marinating (Optional):
- If time allows, marinate the salmon bites for at least 30 minutes. Use acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar in the marinade to tenderize the fish and enhance its flavor.
- Baking (Healthier Option):
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned salmon pieces on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the salmon is tender and flaky.
- Frying (Indulgent Option):
- For pan-frying, heat a pan with olive oil over medium heat. Cook the salmon skin-side down for 3–4 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes. Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs for basting. For deep-frying, use a deep fryer with hot oil until the salmon achieves a crispy exterior.
- Gordon Ramsay’s Touch (Optional):
- Following Gordon Ramsay’s approach, heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, cook skin-side down for 3–4 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes. Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs for basting until the salmon is slightly translucent in the center and flakes easily.
- Check Internal Temperature:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for moist and tender salmon.
- Air Frying (Alternative Method):
- If using an air fryer, cook the salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for about 7–10 minutes. This method provides a quick and healthier option with a slightly crispy exterior.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the cooked salmon bites and serve them hot. Enjoy your delicious and versatile salmon bites with your preferred side dishes or sauces.
Notes
– For a cleaner flavor, trim dark, fatty areas.
– Season both sides of the salmon for an even flavor.
– Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Frying
- Cuisine: Varied
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 servings
- Calories: 300
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g