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Orange Juice Bourbon Salmon Bites Recipe

4.7 from 74 reviews

These Orange Juice Bourbon Salmon Bites offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender salmon pieces glazed with a caramelized orange bourbon sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a savory snack, these bites are quick to prepare and packed with a rich, tangy taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Bites

  • 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces

Marinade & Glaze

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together until the sugar is dissolved to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
  2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon bites in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Allow them to marinate for 15 to 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil to lightly coat the pan.
  4. Cook the Salmon: Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the liquid. Place the salmon pieces in the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, gently turning the bites to develop a caramelized sear.
  5. Glaze and Caramelize: Once the salmon is mostly cooked through, reduce heat to medium-low and pour the reserved marinade over the salmon. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, spooning the glaze over the bites frequently until the sauce thickens and caramelizes, coating the salmon beautifully.
  6. Serve: Remove the salmon bites from the pan and transfer to a serving dish. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for color and added freshness. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
  • If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with additional orange juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
  • Ensure not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
  • These bites can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through cooking.
  • Serve with toothpicks for an easy appetizer at parties.

Keywords: salmon bites, bourbon salmon, orange glaze, appetizer, seafood, caramelized salmon, bourbon glaze