These Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of tender, flaky salmon with a crispy exterior. Paired with a rich and creamy garlic sauce, this dish is a healthy yet indulgent treat that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Tender – Salmon bites with a perfectly crisp crust and tender, juicy interior.
- Quick & Easy – Made in the air fryer for a fast and healthy meal.
- Delicious Garlic Sauce – A creamy garlic sauce that adds a rich, savory flavor to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet (skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Bites
Start by patting the salmon fillet dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Cut the salmon into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the salmon cubes in the mixture until they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Air Fry the Salmon Bites
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the seasoned salmon cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.
Air fry the salmon for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. The salmon should be golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining tender on the inside. If you prefer your salmon a bit crispier, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the creamy garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Serve
Once the salmon bites are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the salmon or serve it on the side for dipping.
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the crispy salmon bites over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa for a light meal.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini.
- Add a side of sweet potato fries or cauliflower rice for a well-rounded dinner.
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-Free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the salmon is fresh and free from any added breading.
- Add Spice – For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the salmon bites or garlic sauce.
- Baked Version – If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Meal Prep – Make extra salmon bites and creamy garlic sauce for a great lunch or dinner the next day. The salmon keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent. The crispy exterior and tender salmon paired with a rich, garlicky sauce will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy this easy, flavorful dish any day of the week!