Air Fryer Salmon Bites

These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick and healthy meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a party appetizer. Made with fresh, skinless salmon fillets, the salmon cubes are seasoned with a flavorful blend of paprika, cumin, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, then air fried to crispy perfection. The result is a dish that’s tender on the inside with a perfectly crisp exterior. Serve these salmon bites with spicy mayo for a burst of flavor or pair them with a side of fresh vegetables for a balanced meal. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick, taking just 7-8 minutes in the air fryer, making it ideal for anyone looking for a fast, healthy meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

2 pounds skinless salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon thyme
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving
Spicy mayo, for dipping

Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
In a large bowl, combine the salmon cubes with olive oil and seasonings (paprika, cumin, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper). Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly.
Place the seasoned salmon in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring the pieces aren’t touching for even cooking.
Air fry the salmon for 7-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time, until the salmon is cooked through and browned on the outside.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and spicy mayo for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are quick, healthy, and packed with flavor! The combination of paprika, cumin, garlic, and thyme gives the salmon a delicious seasoning, and cooking them in the air fryer ensures they come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This recipe is great for a fast weeknight dinner or as a snack for gatherings.

Tips

Ensure the salmon cubes are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can cause uneven cooking. If needed, cook the salmon in batches.
If you want an extra crispy texture, you can spray the salmon bites lightly with cooking spray before air frying.

Variations and Substitutions

Spices: Experiment with different spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, or lemon zest for a unique flavor.
Fish: You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod or trout for a similar texture.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten.
Dipping Sauce: If you don’t want to use spicy mayo, try serving these salmon bites with a tangy tzatziki sauce or a garlic aioli.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cutting into cubes and seasoning.

How can I tell when the salmon bites are done? The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and is opaque in the center. The air fryer will also give them a nice brown color on the outside.

Can I make these ahead of time? While air fryer salmon is best served fresh, you can prepare the seasoned salmon ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.

Serving

Serve your Air Fryer Salmon Bites with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice for a well-rounded meal. They also make a great appetizer or party snack!

Suggestions

Pair these salmon bites with a dipping sauce like spicy mayo, garlic butter, or a simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice. They’re also delicious when served over a bed of greens for a light, nutritious salad.