These air fryer salmon bites are quick, tasty little pieces of heaven! Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect for seafood lovers. Plus, the garlic cream sauce adds a delightful touch!
Making these bites is a breeze! Just toss the salmon with some seasoning, pop them in the air fryer, and whip up that creamy sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the best choice for this recipe, but you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it properly. If you’re looking for a different fish, consider using tuna or trout; they have good flavor profiles too!
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder add great flavor. If you’re out of paprika, smoked paprika can give a nice twist. Cumin or dried herbs like thyme or dill can also work to change the flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just note that it might change the sauce’s richness and texture slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano is a flavorful substitute. Nutritional yeast is great for a dairy-free option and adds a cheesy flavor without the creaminess.
How Do I Make Sure the Salmon Bites Are Just Right?
Getting crispy salmon bites takes a bit of technique, but it’s straightforward! First, preheat your air fryer properly to ensure even cooking. Toss the salmon cubes in olive oil and seasonings to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Cook them in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure they crisp up evenly on all sides.
- Timing is key! Check for doneness at the lower end of the cooking range (8 mins), and if they need more time, you can add 1-2 minutes.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. You’ll spend about 5 minutes getting the salmon ready and another 10 minutes making the delicious garlic cream sauce while the salmon cooks. It’s a quick, simple, and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This helps the salmon cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture.
2. Season the Salmon:
In a mixing bowl, add the salmon cubes. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over them. Toss everything together until the salmon is nicely coated.
3. Air Fry the Salmon:
Place the seasoned salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow hot air to circulate. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be cooked through and slightly crispy.
4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
While the salmon is cooking, grab a small saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Then, add in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth. Finally, add the lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and keep it warm on low heat.
6. Serve the Salmon Bites:
Once the salmon bites are done cooking, carefully transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle the warm garlic cream sauce generously over the top.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off by garnishing with freshly chopped chives or parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce!
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a nice crispy texture.
How Can I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. This includes reheating the garlic cream sauce as well, which can be done on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
Can I Make the Garlic Cream Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic cream sauce ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving over your salmon bites.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute, keeping in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
