These air fryer salmon bites, coated in a luscious lemony garlic butter sauce, are the quick and easy salmon dinner you didn’t know you needed. Cooked in under 10 minutes, they’re a breeze to prepare and pair well with a variety of meals throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from prep to plate.
- Versatile: Perfect for meal prep, salads, rice bowls, or paired with veggies.
- Flavorful: The lemon garlic butter sauce takes the salmon to the next level.
Ingredients
- 1 lb skinless salmon filet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
1. Season the Salmon
In a mixing bowl, combine the salmon cubes with salt and pepper. Toss gently to ensure even seasoning.
2. Prepare the Sauce
To the same bowl, add melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. Mix until the salmon cubes are well-coated in the sauce.
3. Air Fry the Salmon
Line your air fryer basket with a liner to catch the sauce. Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer, ensuring they’re not crowded. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. No need to shake or turn the salmon during cooking.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a plate. Drizzle the remaining garlic lemon butter sauce over the top. Pair with your favorite sides or add to salads and bowls for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Liner Tip: Use an air fryer liner to prevent the sauce from dripping through and to make cleanup easier.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Check Temperature: For perfectly moist salmon, cook to an internal temperature of 125°F to 130°F.
Serving Suggestions
- On a Salad: Add to fresh greens with cucumbers, red onions, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Rice Bowl: Serve over rice or cauliflower rice with a boiled egg, sesame seeds, and soy sauce.
- With Sides: Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli or sautéed spinach.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store cooked salmon bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Let the salmon cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 2-3 minutes.
Variations
- Whole30 Option: Swap butter with ghee or olive oil.
- Different Flavors: Try seasoning with Cajun spices or topping with a teriyaki glaze.
This recipe for air fryer salmon bites is the perfect combination of quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up dinner on the fly, these tender, buttery bites will quickly become a household favorite. Don’t forget to drizzle that extra lemon garlic butter sauce for a burst of flavor!
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