Dive into the convenience and taste of Air Fryer Salmon Bites, a delightful recipe that transforms salmon into perfectly cooked, bite-sized morsels. Ideal for those seeking a healthy, protein-packed snack or a versatile addition to salads, pasta, or grain bowls, these salmon bites offer a quick and effortless way to enjoy the rich flavors and nutritional benefits of salmon. With the air fryer, you achieve a lightly crispy exterior while retaining the moist, tender interior, all without the need for excessive oil. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or new to the game, this recipe promises to become a fast favorite for its simplicity and delectable results.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Salmon Bites:
- Healthy & Nutritious: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, making these bites a smart choice for any meal.
- Quick & Convenient: Ready in just minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, toss into your favorite dishes, or enjoy as a stand-alone snack.
- Easy Cleanup: The air fryer minimizes mess, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients Notes For Air Fryer Salmon Bites:
- Salmon: Opt for fresh or fully thawed salmon fillets, preferably skinless for even cooking and easy eating.
- Seasonings: Customize with your favorite herbs and spices. A simple mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper works beautifully.
- Oil: A light coating of olive oil or avocado oil helps the seasonings stick and promotes a slightly crispy finish.
Recipe Steps:
- Prep the Salmon: Cut the salmon into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes for uniform cooking.
- Season: Toss the salmon bites in a bowl with oil and your chosen seasonings until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 7-10 minutes, or until the exterior is slightly crispy and the interior is cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy the salmon bites hot from the air fryer, with dipping sauces or as part of a larger meal.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
How to Cook Perfect Air Fryer Steak
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges and fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures that the salmon bites start cooking immediately on a hot surface.
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Salmon:
- Add the salmon cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss to ensure all pieces are well coated. Let the salmon marinate for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating time; however, letting it marinate will enhance the flavor.
- Cook the Salmon Bites:
- Place the salmon cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and slightly golden on the outside. There’s no need to flip them during cooking, but you can shake the basket halfway through if desired.
- Serve:
- Remove the salmon bites from the air fryer and serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They’re delicious on their own or served over rice, with vegetables, or in a salad.
