6-Step Crispy Salmon Bites Recipe
These crispy salmon bites are perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. With bold seasonings, tender salmon, and multiple cooking methods (air fryer, oven, or stovetop), they’re a healthy, flavorful option that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 1 lb Salmon Skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
Optional Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce Or use coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative
- 1 tablespoon Honey Or use maple syrup for a version without refined sugar
- 1 teaspoon Toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Skin and Cube: Remove the skin from the salmon if not pre-skinned. Cut the salmon into uniform 1-inch squares using a keen-edged knife. This ensures each piece cooks at the same rate. Gently dab the cubes with a paper towel to eliminate excess moisture. This step enhances the seasoning's ability to stick and results in a crunchier texture.
- Season or Marinate:For a dry rub: Combine salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and optional cayenne in a bowl. Toss salmon cubes until evenly coated. For marinated salmon bites: Whisk together soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and lemon juice. Pour over salmon cubes, toss to coat, and let marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Limit the marinating time, as the acidic components in the marinade can compromise the salmon's textural integrity.
- Air Fryer Salmon Bites: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C. To prevent food from adhering during cooking, lightly coat the basket with a thin film of oil before starting.Place salmon bites in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch each other for even airflow.Cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through. The salmon should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Baked Salmon Bites: To begin preparing the meal, set your oven to 230°C (450°F) before you start. Get your baking tray ready by laying down some parchment paper. This way, your food won't get stuck while it's cooking in the oven.Spread salmon bites in an even layer. Lightly drizzle with olive oil to encourage browning.Bake for 8–10 minutes. For extra crispiness, broil on high for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Pan-Fried Salmon Bites: Set a heavy-duty skillet made of cast-iron or stainless steel on the stove. Turn the heat to medium. Pour a drizzle of olive oil into the skillet and let it heat up for a moment.Place salmon bites in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until browned and crispy. Process the food in separate portions to prevent overcrowding the cooking vessel.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the salmon bites immediately for the best texture. To enhance the dish's flavor, add a sprinkle of freshly minced parsley, a scattering of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of lemon juice as a finishing touch.
Notes
- Calories per serving: 350 calories (56 grams)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Tags: Gluten-Free, High Protein
- Nutritional Info per serving: 22g fat, 30g protein, 4g carbs, 120mg sodium
