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Crispy Salmon Bites with Harissa-Yogurt Sauce Recipe

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These Crispy Salmon Bites are a quick and flavorful appetizer or main dish featuring perfectly seared salmon cubes seasoned with a smoky and spicy spice blend. Served with a creamy, tangy harissa-yogurt sauce and fresh lime, they deliver a delightful combination of textures and bold flavors in just 14 minutes.

Ingredients

Seasoning Mix

  • 1 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes (or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon sumac
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Salmon

  • 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Extra virgin olive oil, about 1 tablespoon (or enough to lightly coat skillet)

Harissa-Yogurt Sauce

  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Kosher salt, about 1/2 teaspoon

Garnish

  • 1 to 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Mix the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, Aleppo pepper flakes, ground cumin, sumac, and a generous pinch each of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to blend all spices evenly.
  2. Prepare and season the salmon. Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle the previously prepared seasoning mix over the salmon pieces and toss gently until all pieces are well-coated with the spice blend.
  3. Make the harissa-yogurt sauce. In a medium bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt, harissa paste, honey, lime juice, and about 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is smooth and well blended. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Sear the salmon. Heat about 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Arrange the salmon pieces in a single layer without crowding the pan. Reduce heat to medium and gently press the salmon down with a fish spatula for a few seconds to ensure even contact with the pan. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the bottom forms a crispy crust and the flesh looks more cooked through. Flip the pieces carefully and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  5. Garnish and serve. Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving plate and immediately squeeze fresh lime juice over them. Drizzle some harissa-yogurt sauce on top and sprinkle with finely chopped green onions. Serve promptly with extra harissa-yogurt sauce on the side and lime wedges for squeezing.

Notes

  • Make sure to not crowd the pan when searing the salmon to ensure a crispy crust.
  • If Aleppo pepper flakes are unavailable, use red pepper flakes as a substitute, but adjust quantity to taste as they are spicier.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best tangy flavor in the sauce and garnish.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the crispy texture of the salmon.
  • Sumac adds a unique tart flavor but can be omitted if not available.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/crispy-salmon-bites-with-harissa-yogurt-sauce-recipe/