Description
Garlic Butter Salmon Bites with Rice is a quick and flavorful dinner recipe that combines tender salmon cubes sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a bed of warm, fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes, delivering a rich, savory experience boosted by fresh parsley and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Bites
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Rice
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the salmon: In a bowl, season the salmon cubes evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Set aside to allow the flavors to infuse the fish.
- Heat butter and oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and sizzling to prepare for sautéing the garlic and salmon.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring carefully to avoid burning the garlic which can turn bitter.
- Cook the salmon bites: Place the salmon pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and the salmon is cooked through but still moist inside.
- Add lemon juice and toss: Drizzle the lemon juice over the cooked salmon bites in the skillet, then gently toss them to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce, enhancing the tangy and rich flavors.
- Serve with rice and garnish: Plate the warm cooked rice and spoon the garlic butter salmon bites over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh salmon and ensure it is cut into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- If preferred, substitute jasmine rice with basmati or brown rice for variation.
- Control saltiness by seasoning lightly at first, as butter and salmon provide natural flavors.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the salmon pieces; avoid overcooking to keep the salmon tender.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during seasoning.
