Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Making air fryer salmon bites is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have crispy and flavorful salmon ready in no time.

The air fryer not only speeds up cooking but also ensures a perfect, crispy exterior while keeping the salmon juicy inside. You can pair these bites with your favorite sauces and sides to create a meal that suits your taste.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, appetizer, or a main dish, air fryer salmon bites are versatile and delicious.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

For making air fryer salmon bites, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients

• Salmon: Use boneless, skinless salmon fillets cut into 1-inch cubes.
• Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick and adds flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a nice kick.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh is best, but bottled works too.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• Black Pepper: For a bit of heat.

Spices

• Paprika: Adds color and a mild spice.
• Dried Herbs: You can use thyme, dill, or parsley.

Possible Substitutes

• Salmon: Trout or another firm fish can work if you don’t have salmon.
• Olive Oil: Can be swapped with avocado oil or sunflower oil.
• Garlic: Garlic powder can be used if you’re out of fresh garlic.
• Lemon Juice: Lime juice is a good alternative.
• Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt.

Optional Add-Ons

• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
• Honey: For a touch of sweetness.
• Chili Flakes: If you like it spicy.

Notes

• Marinade Time: Marinate the salmon for at least 15 minutes for best results.
• Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking in the air fryer.

These ingredients and their alternatives make your salmon bites tasty and crispy. Feel free to experiment with the spices to suit your taste!

Instructions

1. 
   

   Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

   
   

2. Prepare the salmon:

   • Cut the salmon fillets into 1-inch cubes.
   • Place the cubes in a large bowl.

3. Season the salmon:

   • Add olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
   • Mix well to coat all sides of the salmon.

4. Arrange the salmon bites:

   • Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
   • Place the salmon bites in a single layer, giving them some space to get crispy.

5. Air fry the salmon:

   • Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7-8 minutes.
   • If you prefer medium-cooked salmon, check at 6-7 minutes.
   • The bites should be cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

6. Serve:

   • Transfer the salmon bites to a plate.
   • Serve with your favorite sides like rice, veggies, or a dipping sauce.

Enjoy your delicious air fryer salmon bites!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Preheating: Always preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This ensures the salmon bites cook evenly and get that desired crispiness.

Single Layer: Place the salmon bites in a single layer in the basket. Giving them space helps them cook more evenly and become crispier. You might need to cook in batches.

Seasoning: Use a variety of spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dry rub. Mix well to coat all sides of the salmon bites.

Avoid Overcooking: Most recipes recommend cooking for 5-7 minutes. Check the salmon at the 5-minute mark to avoid overcooking. The salmon should be tender and juicy.

Storing: Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes. This helps retain their crispiness.

Marinating: Let the salmon marinate for at least 15 minutes before air frying. This adds extra flavor and makes the bites juicier.

Oil Spray: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. It prevents sticking and helps with browning.

Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon bites.

Serving: Serve your salmon bites with a dip like chipotle crema or a side salad. It adds a lovely contrast to their crispiness.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist, try adding different spices and herbs to your salmon bites. A simple mix of garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper can add a lot of flavors.

If you like a bit of sweetness, toss the salmon pieces with a touch of honey or maple syrup before cooking. It creates a nice glaze.

Want some heat? Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.

For a more savory option, use soy sauce and ginger for a hint of Asian flavor. Marinating the salmon in this mix for a short time can make it even more delicious.

When serving your salmon bites, you have lots of choices. Try pairing them with a fresh salad for a light meal. A side of quinoa or rice can make it more filling.

Here are a few easy serving ideas:

• On top of a salad: Add the salmon bites to a green salad with veggies and your favorite dressing.
• In a wrap: Wrap the salmon bites in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and a sauce like tzatziki or mayo.
• With a dip: Serve them with a dip like guacamole, ranch, or spicy aioli for an easy appetizer.

Feel free to mix and match flavors to suit your taste. There are many ways to enjoy air fryer salmon bites, so find your favorite combination and have fun with it!