📝 About This Recipe
Transform fresh, nutrient-rich seafood into a finger-food favorite that even the pickiest eaters will adore. These bite-sized morsels are marinated in a gentle honey-soy glaze, providing a sweet-and-savory profile that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Perfect for little hands, these 'salmon nuggets' offer a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes healthy eating feel like a special treat.
🥗 Ingredients
The Salmon
- 1.5 pounds Fresh Skinless Salmon Fillet (cut into 1-inch uniform cubes)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (to prevent sticking)
Kid-Friendly Marinade
- 3 tablespoons Honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 tablespoons Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (for a mild savory base)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (brightens the flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (milder than fresh garlic for kids)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ginger Powder (optional, for a hint of warmth)
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil (adds a nutty aroma)
The Creamy Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (plain and unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (adds richness)
- 1 teaspoon Honey (to tie back to the marinade)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Dill (classic seafood pairing)
For Garnish
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Seeds (for 'sprinkle' fun)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Chives (finely snipped)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Start by checking your salmon for any missed pin bones using clean tweezers, then pat the fillets completely dry with paper towels.
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2
Slice the salmon into uniform 1-inch cubes; keeping them the same size ensures they all cook at the same rate.
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3
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, ginger powder, and sesame oil until smooth.
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4
Reserve 2 tablespoons of the marinade in a small cup for later basting, then add the salmon cubes to the bowl and toss gently to coat.
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5
Let the salmon marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes. Avoid marinating longer, as the acid in the lemon juice will start to 'cook' the fish.
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6
While the fish marinates, prepare the dipping sauce by whisking the yogurt, mayo, honey, and dill in a small bowl. Chill until serving.
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7
Preheat your grill or a non-stick grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates using a brush or a folded paper towel dipped in olive oil.
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8
If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for 20 minutes; otherwise, place the cubes directly on the grill pan.
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9
Place the salmon cubes on the hot grill. Let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they develop golden char marks and release easily from the surface.
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10
Flip the cubes carefully using tongs or a small spatula. Brush the tops with the reserved marinade.
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11
Cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side. The salmon is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
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12
Remove from heat immediately to prevent the fish from becoming dry.
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13
Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and snipped chives for a professional 'chef' look.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always pat the salmon dry before marinating to ensure the glaze sticks and the fish sears rather than steams. If your kids are sensitive to texture, use a grill basket to prevent the bites from falling through the grates. For a boost of omega-3s, choose wild-caught King or Sockeye salmon, which holds its shape well when cubed. To make this even more fun for kids, serve them with colorful toothpicks for easy 'spearing' and dipping. If you don't have a grill, these can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes on a parchment-lined tray.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside 'trees' (steamed broccoli florets) for a healthy green side. Pair with fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up any extra honey glaze. Offer sliced cucumbers and carrot sticks for a refreshing, crunchy contrast. A glass of sparkling apple cider makes this feel like a fancy 'grown-up' dinner for little ones. Add a side of sweet potato fries for a meal that feels like a healthy take on a fast-food basket.