Air Fryer Salmon Bites Are Juicy Nuggets of Flavor Goodness — Easy 10-Minute Recipe
If you want to cook salmon quickly without sacrificing on moisture, simply make salmon bites. This involves cutting the fillets into bite-sized cubes before seasoning and cooking them. Not only does the fish get done in less time, you’re able to serve it without worrying if the fillets will break apart. And while you can use any cooking method for salmon bites, air frying only takes 5 minutes and creates crispy and tender fish. Keep reading to learn more about salmon bites — plus, a simple recipe that comes together in a snap!
Why you should cut salmon fillets into pieces
We could sing salmon’s praises all day long — it’s buttery and just so versatile. But when you’re in a pinch, cooking thick fillets can take around 15 minutes if you’re baking them. The good news: You don’t have to wait long to enjoy tender and juicy salmon as cutting them into cubes slashes the cooking time. Also, cubing the salmon exposes the flesh, allowing more seasoning or marinade to flavor the fish. To ensure the freshest pick, check out our guide on how to buy salmon at the fish counter.
Simple step for cubing salmon in less time
While salmon skin is edible, its rubbery texture can make dicing the fish tricky. That’s why it’s a good idea to remove it before cubing the fish. The fishmonger behind the counter will be more than happy to do this step. But, if you want to sharpen your cooking skills, it’s easy to do in 2 minutes using this method shared by YouTuber Matt Cooks.
Make sure to pat salmon completely dry.
Position fillet horizontally on clean board with the skin side facing down.
Keeping the knife parallel to the board, slice salmon fillet right above the skin until the blade has fully run through the bottom.
Once the skin is detached from the flesh, repeat with any remaining fillets before cubing as directed in the recipe.
Related: Don’t Throw Away That Salmon Skin — Use It to Make Tasty 2-Ingredient ‘Bacon’
A mouthwatering recipe for salmon bites
Get dinner on the table fast using this Air Fryer Salmon Bites recipe from TikToker @Gimme.Delicious. This recipe calls for various seasonings like smoked paprika, oregano and garlic powder for a pungent yet smoky flavor. But, you can coat the salmon pieces in your favorite spices or marinade before cooking them. The air fryer works wonders to evenly cook the salmon bites so the inside is moist and the outside is golden brown. Who knew putting a spin on salmon was so simple and tasty!
Air Fryer Salmon Bites
Ingredients:
1 lb. skinless salmon, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
1 Tbs. avocado or olive oil
1 Tbs. lemon juice
? tsp. each of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt and pepper
Lemon wedges, fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Yield: 4 servings
Preheat air fryer to 400oF.
Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes and place in large bowl. Sprinkle minced garlic (if using), oil, lemon juice, and spices into bowl and stir to combine until fish pieces are fully coated.
Arrange salmon cubes in single layer on air fryer basket. Cook 5 minutes or until salmon bites are charred and cooked through (Note: Avoid air frying salmon for too long as it will continue cooking as it cools.)
If desired, garnish lemon wedges, fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve.
Continue reading for more meal inspiration and tips for enjoying salmon!
Leftover Salmon Recipes for Speedy and Delicious Weeknight Meals — 5 Easy Ideas
Chef’s Genius Trick Reheats Salmon Without Drying It Out — Or Stinking Up Your Kitchen
How to Grill Fish: Chef’s Trick Creates Tender Fillets That Won’t Stick to the Grates
