Description
Succulent Air Fryer Salmon Bites deliver Mediterranean-inspired flavor in minutes. Quick protein-packed morsels combine zesty herbs and crispy exterior, promising a delightful experience for seafood enthusiasts seeking fast, healthy meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
Spices and Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Slice the salmon fillet into uniform, bite-sized cubes, carefully removing any pin bones to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
- Combine the salmon pieces in a mixing bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, gently massaging the seasonings to create an even, flavorful coating.
- Activate the air fryer and set the temperature to 400F (200C), allowing it to heat thoroughly and create the perfect cooking environment.
- Arrange the seasoned salmon cubes in a single, uncrowded layer within the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary to maintain optimal spacing.
- Cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes, pausing midway to gently shake the basket, ensuring each morsel develops a golden, crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
- Once cooked, transfer the salmon bites to a serving plate, sprinkling fresh parsley for a vibrant touch and visual appeal.
- Accompany the salmon bites with a complementary dipping sauce such as zesty lemon aioli or rich garlic cream, enhancing the overall flavor profile and dining experience.
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon with vibrant color and minimal fishy smell for the best taste and texture.
- Pat the salmon cubes completely dry with paper towels to help achieve a crispy exterior and prevent steaming in the air fryer.
- Adjust cooking time based on salmon cube size; smaller pieces might need less time to prevent overcooking and maintain moisture.
- Experiment with different spice blends like Cajun seasoning, Mediterranean herbs, or Asian-inspired rubs to create unique flavor profiles.
- For a lower-fat version, use minimal olive oil or replace with a light cooking spray to reduce calories while maintaining crispy results.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F, ensuring food safety without drying out the fish.
- Gluten-free and keto-friendly recipe that works well for multiple dietary preferences with simple ingredient swaps.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg