Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthy: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.
- Versatile: Pairs well with various sides like salads, rice, or vegetables.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats well for future meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound skinless salmon filet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Directions
- Season the Salmon: Place the salmon cubes in a mixing bowl. Add salt and pepper, then toss to combine.
- Add the Sauce: To the same bowl, add melted butter, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Toss until the salmon is well coated.
- Prepare the Air Fryer: Line the air fryer basket with a liner to prevent the sauce from dripping through.
- Cook: Place the salmon cubes in a single layer in the lined basket. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Whole30/Paleo: Substitute butter with ghee or olive oil.
- Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in the sauce.
- Citrus Twist: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 2 to 3 minutes, or until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed in the refrigerator before using.
Do I need to use an air fryer liner?
Yes, it helps prevent the sauce from dripping and makes cleanup easier.
Can I bake these in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until cooked through.
What sides pair well with these salmon bites?
They pair well with salads, rice bowls, steamed vegetables, or cauliflower rice.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the sauce ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the salmon?
It’s best to cook them separately to ensure even cooking.
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Sockeye, Coho, or Atlantic salmon work well. Choose skinless fillets for convenience.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick, healthy, and versatile addition to your meal rotation. With their flavorful lemon garlic butter coating, they’re sure to become a favorite for both weeknight dinners and meal prep. Enjoy them fresh or reheat for a delicious meal anytime.
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Air Fryer Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick and healthy dinner option, cooked to perfection in under 10 minutes. Coated in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, they’re ideal for weeknight meals, meal prep, or as a protein-packed addition to rice bowls and salads.
Ingredients
1 pound skinless salmon filet, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
-
Season the Salmon: Place salmon cubes in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
-
Add Sauce: Pour melted butter, lemon juice, and garlic over the salmon. Toss until evenly coated.
-
Preheat Air Fryer: Line the air fryer basket with a liner to catch any sauce.
-
Air Fry: Arrange salmon in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until opaque and cooked through.
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Serve: Serve warm over your favorite side like rice, salad, or steamed veggies.
Notes
Use olive oil or ghee instead of butter for Whole30 or Paleo.
Add red pepper flakes for heat, or swap lemon with lime for a citrus twist.
Great for meal prep — cool and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container.
Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
