Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Air Fryer Salmon Bites served with a rich garlic cream sauce. This recipe features perfectly cooked salmon cubes seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic powder, air fried to crispy perfection, and paired with a creamy Parmesan garlic sauce that enhances every bite. Ideal for a quick, flavorful appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet (skin removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Bites: Cut the salmon fillet into bite-sized cubes approximately 1-inch pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the salmon cubes to the bowl and toss thoroughly until the pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking.
- Air Fry the Salmon Bites: Arrange the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning. The salmon should be golden and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when done.
- Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: While the salmon cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth. Remove the sauce from heat, then add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving platter. Either drizzle the garlic cream sauce over the salmon or serve it on the side as a dip. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Ensure the salmon pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
- The internal temperature of cooked salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- You can adjust the seasoning in the garlic cream sauce to your preference, adding more lemon juice for extra tang.
- Leftover garlic cream sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and gently reheated before serving.
