If you are searching for a dish that perfectly balances bold, sweet-savory flavors with freshness and a delightful crunch, you have to try this Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe. It’s a marvelous fusion of tender, caramelized salmon bites coated in a glossy teriyaki glaze paired with a cool, creamy avocado and crisp cucumber salsa that adds a refreshing contrast. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a vibrant and satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome, ideal for impressing guests or refreshing your weeknight dinner routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe plays a crucial role, bringing layers of texture, color, and flavor that make the dish truly shine. These essentials ensure your bites are juicy and flavorful while the salsa stays bright and cooling.
- Salmon fillet (1½ pounds, skin removed): Use fresh, high-quality salmon for tender, flaky bites that absorb the teriyaki beautifully.
- Teriyaki sauce (½ cup): Adds the perfect blend of sweet and savory to glaze the salmon.
- Sesame oil (2 tablespoons total): Adds a nutty aroma and smooth finish, split between cooking and salsa dressing.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps achieve that irresistibly crispy exterior on the salmon bites.
- Salt and pepper: To enhance all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Ripe avocados (2, diced): Creamy texture that balances the tanginess and adds richness.
- Large cucumber (1, sliced in half moons): Offers a refreshing crispness to complement the salmon.
- Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Brings a gentle tang to brighten the salsa.
- Mayonnaise (â…“ cup): Blends into a luscious spicy sauce for an extra kick.
- Sriracha sauce (2 tablespoons): For that vibrant heat that livens up every bite.
- Lemon or lime juice (1 teaspoon): Adds a little zing to the spicy mayo.
- Cooked rice (2 cups): Jasmine or Basmati rice works best and makes a perfect base to serve the salmon bites on.
- Sesame seeds: Use these as a garnish to finish the dish with a subtle crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Salmon
Start by cutting the salmon fillet into bite-sized chunks. Toss these chunks gently with cornstarch, salt, and pepper to help create a light, crispy layer when cooked. Then, coat them with the teriyaki sauce and let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those sweet and umami-rich flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon Bites
Heat sesame oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Arrange the marinated salmon bites evenly in the pan, allowing them to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful caramelized crust. The cornstarch coating paired with the teriyaki glaze creates an enticing sticky glaze that’s irresistible!
Step 3: Make the Avocado and Cucumber Salsa
While the salmon cooks, toss the diced avocados and half-moon cucumber slices with rice vinegar, the remaining sesame oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This salsa will add a fresh, cooling element that perfectly balances the richness of the salmon and the spiciness of the sauce.
Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Mayo
Combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon or lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust the spice level to your liking. This creamy sauce serves as a fantastic, tangy topping that ties everything together in the final dish.
Step 5: Assemble Your Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe
Start with a bed of warm cooked jasmine or basmati rice. Add a generous layer of avocado and cucumber salsa, then top with the golden teriyaki salmon bites. Drizzle with the spicy mayo and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that last touch of flavor and presentation.
How to Serve Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions bring additional texture and a pop of color to this dish. A few extra lime wedges on the side offer a zesty option for those who want a bit more brightness with each bite.
Side Dishes
Although this recipe is complete and satisfying as it is, pairing it with a light seaweed salad, steamed edamame, or even a simple miso soup can elevate the meal into a full Asian-inspired experience that never feels heavy but incredibly fulfilling.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these salmon bites in small bamboo boats or on individual tasting spoons for a fantastic appetizer at parties. For a casual meal, arrange them on a large platter with the salsa and sauces on the side, inviting everyone to assemble their own bites just how they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover salmon bites and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This separation keeps the textures fresh and prevents the salsa from becoming too soggy. Consume within 2 days to enjoy the flavors at their best.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for this Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe, you can freeze the cooked salmon bites (without salsa) by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a sealed container. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the avocado salsa as it doesn’t thaw well.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon bites in a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving as it can make the salmon rubbery. Add fresh avocado and cucumber salsa right before serving to keep flavors bright and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon is ideal for its rich flavor and firm texture, you can substitute with tuna or even firm white fish like cod. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so the bites remain moist and tender.
Is the spicy mayo necessary? Can I skip it?
The spicy mayo adds a lovely creamy heat that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can omit it or replace it with a simple soy-sesame dipping sauce.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Make sure to use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce or make your own at home using tamari sauce as a base. Also, check your mayonnaise and sriracha labels for gluten-free certification.
Can this dish be made vegan or vegetarian?
For a vegan twist, you might replace the salmon with marinated tofu bites cooked in the same teriyaki glaze. Keep the rest of the salsa and sauces the same for a fresh and satisfying plant-based version.
What type of rice pairs best with this recipe?
Jasmine or Basmati rice are both excellent choices because their fragrant, fluffy grains complement the rich salmon and vibrant salsa without overpowering. Brown rice is another hearty alternative if you want extra fiber.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together quickly with simple ingredients. It’s colorful, flavorful, and just downright fun to eat. I encourage you to bring this recipe to your kitchen and watch how it becomes a favorite for lunches, dinners, or gatherings. Your taste buds will thank you for every bite!
Print
Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Avocado and Cucumber Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Delicious and vibrant Teriyaki Salmon Bites featuring tender salmon glazed with savory teriyaki sauce, paired with a refreshing avocado cucumber salad and a spicy mayo drizzle. This quick 30-minute recipe is perfect for a flavorful, healthy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Salmon Bites
- 1½ pounds salmon fillet, skin removed
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Avocado Cucumber Salad
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 large cucumber, sliced in half moons
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sriracha Mayo Sauce
- â…“ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or lime juice
- Salt to taste
Additional
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably Jasmine or Basmati)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Cut the salmon fillet into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the salmon bites with cornstarch to lightly coat them. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon bites and cook until they are golden and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side depending on size. Remove from heat and toss the cooked salmon with ½ cup teriyaki sauce until evenly coated.
- Make the avocado cucumber salad: In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado, cucumber slices, rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine and set aside.
- Prepare the spicy mayo sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon or lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust spice level according to preference.
- Assemble the dish: Divide the cooked rice equally among four serving plates. Top the rice with the teriyaki salmon bites and spoon the avocado cucumber salad on the side. Drizzle with the spicy mayo sauce and garnish with sesame seeds.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm teriyaki salmon and fresh salad with creamy, spicy sauce.
Notes
- Use skinless salmon for easier cutting and eating.
- You can substitute store-bought teriyaki sauce or make your own for extra flavor.
- Adjust the sriracha quantity for desired spiciness.
- Serve with steamed or fried rice as preferred; Jasmine or Basmati rice works best.
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top.
