Description
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick, delicious appetizer or snack featuring perfectly cooked salmon cubes with a creamy garlic lemon sauce. The salmon is air fried to a crispy golden finish while maintaining its juicy interior, then topped with a rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce garnished with fresh parsley. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a healthy, elegant bite-sized treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Bites
- 1 lb fresh salmon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Garlic Cream Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season Salmon: Toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika if using, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Air Fry Salmon: Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until salmon is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Prepare Garlic Cream Sauce: While salmon cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to burn.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, then simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Serve: Once salmon bites are cooked, drizzle with the garlic cream sauce and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately either as an appetizer or with your preferred side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure salmon cubes are similar in size for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the cream sauce.
- Adjust lemon juice quantity to your preferred level of tanginess.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
