Air Fryer Salmon Bites

This salmon bite recipe transforms ordinary salmon into an irresistible appetizer or main course in minutes. The air fryer creates perfectly cooked, moist salmon cubes with crispy edges while the lemon garlic butter adds a luxurious flavor that makes these bites truly special.

I first made these salmon bites when I needed a quick protein option while entertaining unexpected guests. The dish was such a hit that it has become my go to impressive yet effortless recipe when I want to make someone feel special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Salmon filet: Skinless and cut into 1 inch cubes. Choose center cut salmon for most uniform cooking and best texture
• Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the salmon without making it taste salty
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and depth
• Melted butter: Creates a rich coating that helps the salmon stay moist
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness that balances the rich butter
• Garlic cloves: Minced finely creates aromatic punch that permeates every bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Salmon:

Add your salmon cubes to a mixing bowl and sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently with your hands or a spoon to ensure each piece is evenly coated. The seasoning should lightly cover each piece without overwhelming the natural flavor of the fish.

Create the Flavor Base:

In the same bowl with the seasoned salmon cubes add the melted butter lemon juice and minced garlic. Carefully toss everything together making sure each piece of salmon gets coated in this aromatic mixture. The butter should still be warm but not hot to prevent partially cooking the salmon before it goes into the air fryer.

Air Fry to Perfection:

Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or an air fryer liner this crucial step prevents the delicious sauce from dripping through the basket holes. Arrange the salmon pieces in a single layer making sure they aren't touching to allow proper air circulation. Cook at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through with slightly crispy edges. The salmon should flake easily but still remain juicy inside.

Serving with Style:

Transfer the salmon bites to a serving dish and drizzle with any remaining garlic lemon butter from the air fryer basket. This sauce is liquid gold adding extra flavor to every bite. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant for the best flavor experience.

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The quality of your salmon makes all the difference in this dish. I once made this recipe with freshly caught wild salmon that my neighbor brought back from Alaska and the flavor was absolutely transcendent. If you can get your hands on high quality salmon the simple preparation allows its natural flavor to truly shine.

Storage and Reheating

These salmon bites are best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for just 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat as salmon can quickly become dry. You can also enjoy them cold atop a salad for a delicious protein boost.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant appetizer serve these salmon bites on small skewers with a side of additional lemon garlic butter for dipping. At dinner time they pair beautifully with steamed asparagus and wild rice or atop a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For a complete meal bowl arrange the salmon bites over quinoa with roasted vegetables and drizzle with the lemon garlic butter sauce.

Variations to Try

This recipe serves as a wonderful base for endless variations. Try adding a teaspoon of honey for sweet and savory salmon bites or incorporate herbs like dill or tarragon for a fresh twist. For a spicy version add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the butter mixture before cooking. The versatility of this cooking method allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles while maintaining the quick and easy preparation.

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These salmon bites will become your favorite quick and delicious recipe to impress guests or elevate a weeknight meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this dish?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting into cubes. This ensures even cooking and better sauce adhesion. The cooking time might need a slight adjustment depending on the moisture content after thawing.

→ What sides pair well with these salmon bites?

These salmon bites pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, quinoa or rice pilaf, a fresh green salad, or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra lemon butter sauce.

→ Why is using a liner in the air fryer important?

Using a liner in the air fryer basket is crucial for this dish because it prevents the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce from dripping through the basket holes. This keeps all the flavor with the salmon and makes cleanup much easier.

→ Can I use skin-on salmon for this dish?

While the recipe calls for skinless salmon, you can use skin-on salmon if preferred. Just make sure to cut the cubes so that most pieces don't have skin attached, as the skin won't crisp up properly in the short cooking time and with the butter sauce.

→ How do I know when the salmon bites are done cooking?

The salmon bites are done when they turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. Depending on the size of your cubes and your specific air fryer, this should take 5-7 minutes at 400°F (200°C). For best results, check one piece at the 5-minute mark by gently flaking it with a fork.

→ Can I add other seasonings to the salmon?

Absolutely! While the lemon garlic butter creates a delicious flavor profile, you can customize by adding herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme. Spices such as paprika, cayenne for heat, or even a touch of honey for sweetness work well with salmon.