Print

Quick Garlic Butter Salmon Bites – Best 20-Minute Easy Dinner

garlic butter salmon bites - featured image

These quick garlic butter salmon bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds salmon fillet, skin removed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep the salmon: Place salmon fillet on a cutting board and cut into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Pat cubes dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the bites: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sprinkle evenly over salmon cubes and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  3. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and swirl to coat the pan.
  4. Sear the salmon: Place salmon cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until edges are golden and crispy.
  5. Flip and add garlic: Flip each piece using tongs. Add remaining 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic. Stir garlic around salmon and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until salmon is cooked through (internal temperature 145°F).
  6. Finish with lemon: Remove pan from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over salmon bites and toss gently to coat.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top, toss gently, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat salmon very dry for best sear. Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Add garlic after flipping to prevent burning. Use room-temperature salmon for even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon bites, garlic butter salmon, quick salmon recipe, 20-minute dinner, easy weeknight dinner, salmon cubes, crispy salmon