If you’re a fan of seafood recipes that are simple yet bursting with flavor, try this easy Blackened salmon bites recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Coated with a bold blend of spices and baked to perfection, each bite is smoky, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.
This dish brings a touch of Creole-inspired flair to your table, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or even meal prep. Ready in just 15 minutes, these salmon bites are a quick, delicious, and healthy way to elevate your seafood game.
What makes these Blackened Salmon Bites stand out is their bold seasoning. A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper creates a rich, savory crust that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the salmon. The high-heat baking method ensures that the salmon stays juicy while achieving the crispy, caramelized exterior that makes blackened dishes so irresistible.
If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy way to enjoy salmon, try my Salmon Kale Quinoa Salad and Pesto Butter Salmon —it’s perfect for meal prep!
Jump to:
- Why You Will Love This Blackened Salmon Bites Recipe
- How Nutritious is Salmon?
- What to Serve with Your Baked Blackened Salmon Bites
- Ingredients
- How to make Blackened Salmon Bites Recipe
- Substitutions and Variations for Baked Blackened Salmon Bites
- Equipment
- Storing Baked Blackened Salmon Bites
- Key Tips for Blackened Salmon Bites:
- FAQ
- Related
- Pairing
- Blackened Salmon Bites
Why You Will Love This Blackened Salmon Bites Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, these salmon bites are perfect for a quick meal or an impressive appetizer.
- Bold Flavors in Every Bite: Blackened Baked Salmon Bites are the epitome of bold flavors. Cayenne pepper and paprika are blended with other seasonings that blacken the salmon and caramelize the crust to develop a crisp, dark, and savory coating.
- Fiery Smoky Delight: These spicy salmon bites create a fiery smoky dance on your tongue. The gentle, sweet richness of the salmon and the heat generated by spices and herbs come together as a seafood masterpiece. Since these are small “bites” instead of fillets, the spices are stretched over a greater surface area for the best effect.
- Inspired by Creole Cuisine: New Orleans is known for its spicy Creole offerings. It is the logical birthplace of the hot cubed salmon recipes which use a higher-than-usual temperature to achieve the delicious blackening.
How Nutritious is Salmon?
We know how delicious baked salmon bites are. Most people love it. Interestingly, it is also one of the healthiest foods available. A simple serving is a mere 200 calories, while wild salmon has even fewer calories – 180. Any salmon is a terrific source of vitamin 12, vitamin D, potassium, and iron.
Due to all these nutrients, and the amount of healthy omega-3 fatty acids salmon contains, this easy salmon bites recipe is good for any number of physical disorders, including artery inflammation, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. It can protect against strokes, heart attacks, and dementia.
It’s hard to argue against the power of salmon.
What to Serve with Your Baked Blackened Salmon Bites
These salmon bites are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Whether you serve them with roasted vegetables, creamy pasta, or use them as a topping for salads and tacos, these salmon bites are incredibly versatile. They’re also perfect for meal prepping, as they store well and reheat beautifully. Here are some great options to complement their bold, smoky flavor:
- Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts: The sweet and spicy glaze on roasted Brussels sprouts perfectly complements the smoky blackened salmon, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
- Salad Topping: Add them to a fresh salad, like the Salmon Kale Quinoa Salad. This nutritious combination of kale, quinoa, and salmon gets an extra smoky kick with the blackened salmon bites.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair them with roasted vegetables like Roasted Carrots and Asparagus or Roasted Carrots and Cauliflower for a flavorful and wholesome side.
- Cucumber and Avocado: A refreshing side of cucumber and avocado offers a cool contrast to the spiciness of the salmon bites.
- Fish Tacos: Use the salmon bites as the main filling for delicious and easy fish tacos. Add your favorite toppings for an elevated taco night.
- Creamy Pasta: Serve alongside a creamy pasta dish like the Pesto Ricotta Pasta for a comforting and indulgent pairing.
Ingredients
If you’re wondering how to cook blackened salmon, it’s easier than you might think! Simply prepare the seasoning, toss the salmon in it, and bake to perfection. Check out the ingredients below to create this fantastic recipe!
- Salmon fillet, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes: The star of the dish, salmon provides a rich, buttery flavor and tender texture that works beautifully with the bold blackened seasoning. Cutting it into cubes ensures even cooking and maximizes the seasoning coverage.
- Olive oil: Helps the spices adhere to the salmon and adds a subtle richness, ensuring the cubes stay moist during baking.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a smoky depth of flavor and vibrant color, essential for achieving that classic blackened taste. If you don't have smoked paprika you can also use regular paprika instead.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall seasoning blend.
- Onion powder: Complements the garlic powder with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Thyme: Contributes an earthy, herbaceous note that balances the boldness of the spices.
- Oregano: Adds a subtle, peppery warmth and enhances the complexity of the seasoning blend.
- Brown sugar: Provides a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smoky and spicy elements, helping with caramelization.
- Cayenne pepper: Delivers a touch of heat, giving the salmon bites their signature kick.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon and the spices, ensuring a well-balanced taste.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild, earthy spice that complements the seasoning without overpowering it.
- Lemon wedges: The fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty finish that cuts through the richness of the salmon and spices.
- Parsley: Provides a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a mild herbaceous flavor to balance the bold seasoning.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to make Blackened Salmon Bites Recipe
These bites are also a fantastic option as a baked salmon appetizer, perfect for entertaining or serving at casual gatherings. Whether you’re preparing them for a dinner party or a quick snack, they’re sure to impress with their rich flavor and irresistible texture. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to make them in just a few simple steps!
Combine all spices into a same bowl and combine thoroughly.
Using a sharp knife cut the salmon into equal cubes and add it to bowl.
Massage the salmon with olive oil and add the prepared seasonings. Toss it.
Arrange the salmon bites in a baking tray and bake.
Place the prepared salmon bites in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook, and check for doneness by gently pressing with a fork—the salmon should flake easily and appear opaque throughout. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the salmon pieces, so it’s a good idea to check a few minutes early to avoid overcooking. For best results, ensure the edges are crisp and caramelized while the interior remains tender and juicy. Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute before serving.
Substitutions and Variations for Baked Blackened Salmon Bites
- Alternative Fish Options: This baked blackened salmon recipe can be quite flexible. If salmon is not available, try using steelhead trout, which is milder than salmon.
- Spice Substitutions: The spices are the key to creating salmon bites. However, don’t let the lack of appropriate spices prevent you from making this recipe with sriracha sauce or sweet chili sauce. Both are ready-to-buy sauces that bring a natural fire to any dish. Cooking a great meal is all about being flexible.
- Flexible Protein Choices: If you don’t have salmon, try cutting up leftover chicken and seasoning it with the same spices for a flavorful twist.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the salmon cubes with olive oil and seasoning.
- Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet for evenly spreading the salmon cubes during baking.
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For trimming and cutting the salmon into evenly sized cubes.
- Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure the spices and seasonings for the recipe.
- Tongs or Spatula: For tossing the salmon cubes with seasoning and for flipping them.
Storing Baked Blackened Salmon Bites
Refrigeration: Salmon is far too delicious to waste a single bite. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for four days.
Freezing: If you wish to store the salmon longer, keep it in the freezer for 4 months.
Reheating Tip: Reheat gently in the oven, air fryer, or skillet to maintain their flavor and texture.
Key Tips for Blackened Salmon Bites:
Crispy salmon bites will always be a flavor delight, but you can elevate even these to be their best with just a few simple guidelines.
- Fresh salmon will invariably taste better.
- Ensure the bites are cut evenly to achieve an even baking.
- Do not crowd the baking dish when cooking the salmon bites.
- Fish can dry out very quickly. Watch your cooking temperature carefully to get crispy on the outside and juicy and flaky on the inside.
- Serve the salmon bites with sauces such as an inviting remoulade, a garlic aioli, or a spicy mayonnaise (add some sriracha to the mayo).
- Herbs and spices are the key to a winning recipe for salmon bites. Experiment until you get the best combination for you. Since cayenne is a key spice, adjust it to your desired heat level. The heat can be countered by the brown sugar, and that, too, can be balanced according to taste.
FAQ
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting it into cubes and seasoning.
Regular paprika can be used as a substitute, though it won’t have the same smoky flavor. You can add a small amount of chipotle powder for smokiness.
Absolutely! Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil, and sear the salmon bites for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.
Follow the same instructions up to the seasoning step. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Place the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking. Air fry the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has a crisp, caramelized exterior.
The salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Try serving with creamy options like garlic aioli, lemon dill sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor when serving as an appetizer for a game day or potluck or any parties!
You can substitute salmon with other fish like cod, trout, or even shrimp. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the protein.
Yes, you can prepare and season the salmon cubes in advance, then bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor. So I would say these blackened salmon bites are just perfect for weekend meal prep.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this blackened salmon bites recipe:
Blackened Salmon Bites
Equipment
- Baking Tray
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Spoons
- Aluminium Foil or Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon fillet skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Pat the salmon cubes dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the salmon cubes with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the salmon and gently toss to coat all the pieces evenly.
- Arrange the seasoned salmon bites on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Transfer the salmon bites to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the sides.
Notes
- Fresh salmon works best for this recipe, but if using frozen salmon, thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or avoid the cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
If you try this quick and easy blackened salmon bites recipe, please leave a STAR rating in the comment section below! Your feedback helps a small blogger like me stay motivated in creating content for my readers. Also, feel free to follow me at Food Exit on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest for the latest recipe updates!
Abi Guna says
Who doesn't like easy appetizers like this which are flavorful and delicious. Try this recipe and I know you will be amazed!