Air Fryer Salmon Bites is an easy appetizer or main course recipe that you’re going to love! All you need is 5 ingredients and less than 10 minutes to make this delicious seafood recipe. It features cubed salmon marinated in a simple garlic lemon spice mix, and then air fried to crispy perfection! Serve in a salad, in a rice and veggie bowl, or with a side of vegetables.
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are the perfect way to make a fast dinner that everyone will enjoy! Simply cut salmon into small cubes, then toss it in a mix of fresh minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice and spices. Place the salmon pieces in the air fryer and cook for 5 minutes… that’s it!
This recipe is so quick & easy! We love to serve these with a side of rice, roasted veggies, or potato wedges. Such an easy and delicious salmon recipe to serve as a healthy lunch, dinner or high-protein snack. This recipe is low in carbs, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Reasons to make this recipe
- Simple and easy: Super quick & easy to make, these salmon bites can be ready-to-go in just 10 minutes.
- It’s healthy: According to Healthline, salmon is one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. It’s a great source of protein, healthy fats, and various essential vitamins and minerals.
- So much delicious flavor: The salmon is seasoned with a simple rub before it’s cooked to perfection in the air fryer. As the bites cook, the rub makes the outside of the salmon nice and crisp while the inside stays tender and juicy.
- It’s versatile: Serve these as an appetizer with a toothpick and watch them disappear. Or pair them with your favorite side and enjoy them as a main course. They’re also great served in a bowl with quinoa or rice, veggies and a creamy sauce drizzled over the top.
Ingredients needed
With only four ingredients, plus spices, this air fryer salmon bites recipe could not be more simple. It is perfect for a busy weekday or a lazy weekend. Here’s everything you’ll need to make it:
- Salmon: You’ll need 1 pound of skinless salmon. Both wild-caught or farmed will work fine, but for the most health benefits, we recommend wild-caught salmon.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds savory flavor that pairs nicely with the lemon juice and spices.
- Oil: Any oil will work, but we like to use olive oil or avocado oil.
- Lemon juice: Use fresh lemon juice to give these nuggets a delicious bright taste.
- Spices: A simple mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt and pepper adds bold, savory flavor.
How to make this recipe
- Prep: Pre-heat air fryer to 400ºF. Dice salmon into 1-inch cubes.
- Season salmon: Place the salmon bites in a large bowl. Add the garlic, oil, lemon juice, and spices and mix to combine.
- Cook: Transfer to the preheated air fryer, in a single layer, and air fry for 5 minutes or until salmon bites are charred and cooked through (they will continue cooking as they cool).
- Serve: Enjoy with fresh lemon sliced and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Expert tips
- Buy skinless salmon or trim the skin off before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the salmon bites all the same size, so they will cook at the same rate.
- You can use frozen salmon for this recipe, just be sure to thaw it before coating it in oil and seasoning.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I cook my salmon in the air fryer?
Unlike a fillet of salmon, salmon bites are small, and they cook really fast. They will only need to cook for 5 minutes at 400 degrees F.
Should I flip the salmon bites in the air fryer?
No, it is not necessary to flip the salmon in the air fryer. Because of the power of the heating element and constant heat circulation, most things cook evenly without having to hassle with flipping.
Ways to serve
- Main dish: These pair great with a variety of sides. Some of our favorite options are garlic butter mushrooms, autumn roasted veggies, Greek kale salad or baked mac & cheese.
- Appetizer: Serve these as part of a spread of other apps with little toothpicks and sauce, like spicy mayo.
- In a salad: For a boost of protein, top any fresh green salad with these crispy bites, and add your favorite dressing.
- In a grain bowl: Add these to a bowl with rice or quinoa, plenty of veggies and a drizzle of my Yum Yum Sauce.
- Salmon tacos: Wrap some of the bites in tortillas and add the slaw and sauce from my shrimp tacos recipe.
Storage recommendations
- Storing leftovers: Salmon bites are best enjoyed soon after cooking, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the salmon in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat until just warm, as to keep it from becoming too dry. Or rewarm it in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 365 degrees. You can also reheat individual servings for a minute or so in the microwave.
You can also enjoy leftovers, cold, tossed in a salad!
More salmon recipes
Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Ingredients
- 1 pound skinless salmon
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil, or oil of choice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon EACH smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper
Instructions
- Pre-heat air fryer to 400ºF. Dice salmon into 1-inch cubes.
- Place the salmon bites in a large bowl. Add the garlic, oil, lemon juice, and spices and mix to combine.
- Transfer to the preheated air fryer, in a single layer, and air fry for 5 minutes or until salmon bites are charred and cooked through (they will continue cooking as they cool).
- Serve with fresh lemon sliced and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Video
Equipment
Notes
- Storing leftovers: Salmon bites are best enjoyed soon after cooking, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the salmon in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat until just warm, as to keep it from becoming too dry. Or rewarm it in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 365 degrees. You can also reheat individual servings for a minute or so in the microwave.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
