Sweet Chili Salmon Bites with Lime Yogurt Dip

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Sweet Chili Salmon Bites with Lime Yogurt Dip

Juicy, caramelized salmon cubes glazed in a sticky sweet chili sauce, paired with a cool, creamy lime yogurt dip. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or light dinner!

 Description

These salmon bites are crispy on the outside, tender and flaky inside, coated in a sweet-spicy glaze that balances beautifully with a refreshing lime yogurt dip. They’re quick to prepare (under 30 minutes), high in protein, and packed with heart-healthy fats.

 Ingredients

For the Salmon Bites:

  • 1½ lbs (680g) fresh salmon, skin removed & cut into 1½-inch cubes

  • 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

For the Lime Yogurt Dip:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

  • 1 tsp lime zest

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tbsp finely chopped cilantro

  • 1 small garlic clove, grated

  • Salt to taste

 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, ginger, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2️⃣ Marinate the Salmon

Add salmon cubes and gently toss to coat. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes (no longer than 30 minutes).

3️⃣ Cook the Salmon

Pan Method (Recommended):

  • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Add salmon cubes in a single layer.

  • Cook 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through (internal temp 125–130°F for medium).

Air Fryer Method:

  • Preheat to 390°F (200°C).

  • Cook 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway.

4️⃣ Make the Dip

Mix all dip ingredients in a bowl. Chill until ready to serve.

5️⃣ Serve

Arrange salmon bites around a bowl of lime yogurt dip. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra lime zest.

 Servings

  • Serves: 4 as appetizer

  • Serves: 2 as main dish

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate, Appetizer Portion)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 28g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sugar: 9g

  • Omega-3s: ~1,500 mg

💪 Health Benefits

✅ Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (heart & brain health)
✅ High-quality lean protein
✅ Supports muscle recovery
✅ Greek yogurt adds probiotics for gut health
✅ Lower-carb option compared to breaded appetizers

🔥 Tips for Best Results

✔ Use center-cut salmon for even cubes
✔ Pat salmon dry before marinating for better caramelization
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan
✔ Slightly undercook salmon — it continues cooking off heat
✔ Add red pepper flakes for extra heat
✔ Substitute maple syrup for honey if preferred

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Store in airtight container up to 3 days

  • Reheat in air fryer (350°F for 3–4 minutes)

  • Avoid microwaving too long to prevent dryness

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes. Fully thaw and pat dry before cutting and marinating.

Q: Can I bake instead?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
Mildly sweet with gentle heat. Adjust spice level by adding sriracha or chili flakes.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free plain yogurt or tahini-lemon sauce.

Q: What sides go well with this?

  • Jasmine rice

  • Cucumber salad

  • Quinoa

  • Roasted vegetables

  • Lettuce wraps

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