Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Bites
- Cut the Salmon:
- Remove the skin from the salmon fillets if it hasn’t been removed already.
- Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
- Season the Salmon:
- Place the salmon bites in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley (if using) over the salmon.
- Toss again to ensure all pieces are well-coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that the salmon bites start cooking immediately when placed in the basket.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Bites
- Arrange the Salmon:
- Place the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry:
- Cook the salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- The salmon bites are done when they are golden brown on the outside and opaque and flaky on the inside. You can check doneness by inserting a fork or a small knife into a piece to see if it flakes easily.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate and Serve:
- Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving platter.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty contrast.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer:
- Serve the salmon bites with a dipping sauce such as tartar sauce, aioli, or a yogurt-based dill sauce.
- In a Salad:
- Top a fresh green salad with the salmon bites for a protein-packed meal.
- With Rice or Quinoa:
- Serve the salmon bites over a bed of rice or quinoa with steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
- In Tacos:
- Use the salmon bites as a filling for tacos, adding shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of lime crema.
Tips and Tricks
- Uniform Size: Cutting the salmon into uniform pieces ensures even cooking.
- Oil Substitution: You can use other oils like avocado oil or coconut oil if preferred.
- Additional Seasonings: Customize the flavor by adding other spices or herbs, such as cayenne pepper for heat or fresh dill for a hint of brightness.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of salmon in a bite-sized form. With a simple seasoning blend and the efficient cooking power of the air fryer, you can have a healthy and flavorful dish ready in minutes. Whether served as an appetizer, part of a main course, or even in tacos, these salmon bites are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!