Waves

Pan-seared Orange Salmon Bites

If you’re feeling a snack attack, these mouthwatering morsels have you covered. Searing brings out caramel notes from the succulent salmon, and the rich, tangy, slightly nutty sauce will have you coming back for more. They’re fantastic for a meal, too; just serve over rice, alongside potatoes, or however you please.

Ingredients

  • 1½–2 lbs (681–908 g) salmon fillets (with or without skin)
  • 1 tbsp + 2 tsp (15 ml + 10 ml) canola oil, divided
  • 1 tbsp (14 g) butter
  • 3 pcs garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) orange juice concentrate
  • ¼ cup (54 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
  • ½ tsp (1 g) paprika (sweet)
  • ¼ tsp (1 g) black pepper
  • 2 tsp (10 ml) toasted sesame oil
  • Garnishes (optional):
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Green onions, thinly sliced

Steps

  1. Cut the salmon into 1-inch pieces. Pat pieces dry with paper towels.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) canola oil and heat until shimmering.
  3. If salmon pieces have skin, place skin side down into the hot pan. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes or until skin is crisped. Carefully flip salmon pieces over and sear the other side for 2 minutes or until caramelized. Remove from the skillet and set aside. With a paper towel, wipe out any excess oil from the skillet.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and the remaining 2 teaspoons of canola oil to the skillet. Add in the garlic and sauté until fragrant and softened; 30 seconds.
  5. Stir in the orange juice concentrate, brown sugar, soy sauce, paprika, and pepper. Stir until brown sugar is melted and sauce is slightly thickened. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the sesame oil. Add the salmon pieces back into the hot pan, gently flipping them to coat on all sides.
  6. Transfer coated salmon bites to a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and/or thinly sliced green onions. If serving as an appetizer or snack, skewer each bite with a toothpick. Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

  • Canadian trout or any firm fish can be used in place of the salmon.
  • Leftovers can be used to top a grain bowl or salad.
Waves
Choose Canadian Seafood White Icon Salmon

Health Benefits of Salmon

  • Bone & Teeth Health: Salmon is an excellent source of vitamin D, which plays a pivotal role in building and maintaining strong bones and teeth while enhancing calcium and phosphorus absorption.
  • Brain & Neurological Development: As a source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, Salmon may support the physical development of the brain, eyes, and nerves, especially in children under two.
  • Energy & Cell Health: As an excellent source of B12 vitamins and selenium, and a good source of phosphorous, salmon may aid in energy metabolism and red blood cell formation, and offer antioxidant protection against oxidative stress.
Waves