Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dinner? These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Butter are your new go-to! Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re ready in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding the family, or craving a protein-rich snack, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Healthy: High in protein and omega-3s, low in carbs.
- Versatile: Great as a main dish, salad topping, or appetizer.
- Minimal Cleanup: Air frying means less mess and no splatter.
- Kid-Friendly: Bite-sized and flavorful—perfect for picky eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillets, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Substitutions:
- Salmon: Use fresh or thawed frozen salmon.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil or melted coconut oil work well.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used; adjust quantity to taste.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor.
- Butter: For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter or omit.
How to Make It
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
- Season Salmon: In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Add Lemon Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with lemon juice. Drizzle over the cooked salmon bites.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Uniform Pieces: Cut salmon into equal-sized cubes for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of crisping.
- Check Doneness: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Customize Flavors: Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat or a dash of honey for sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture.
Do I need to flip the salmon bites?
Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps achieve even crispiness without manual flipping.
What can I serve with these salmon bites?
They pair well with rice, quinoa, salads, or steamed vegetables.
Can I make these ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers and reheat as needed (see below).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Place cooled salmon bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Butter are a delightful addition to your dinner rotation—quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Give them a try and share your experience with us!