Description
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce are a quick and delicious seafood appetizer or main dish. Tender, perfectly cooked salmon cubes are seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, then air fried to a golden finish. Paired with a rich, creamy garlic sauce with Parmesan and a hint of lemon, this recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
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 1-inch bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the salmon cubes in the mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Air Fry the Salmon Bites: Arrange the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook them for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bites are golden and cooked through with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: While the salmon cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts completely. Remove the sauce from heat, add lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving platter. Drizzle the garlic cream sauce over the salmon or serve it on the side. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking of salmon bites.
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- The internal temperature of the 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 tanginess or more Parmesan for richness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently to retain moisture.
