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- 1 lb salmon fillet: Use skinless salmon for easy cooking. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and great flavor. - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melt the butter before mixing. It helps blend the flavors well. - 4 cloves garlic: Mince the garlic finely to release its strong flavor. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This gives a nice smoky touch to the dish. - 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild kick. You can adjust the amount for more heat. - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: This brings the spice! You can add less if you prefer it milder. - Salt and pepper: Use these to taste. They enhance all the flavors. - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: This brightens the dish and adds zest. - Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkle this on top for a burst of color and freshness. It makes the dish look beautiful. - Lemon wedges: Serve these on the side. They add a zesty touch when squeezed over the salmon bites. To start, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir well until everything combines smoothly. This spicy garlic butter sauce is the magic that flavors our salmon bites. Next, take the salmon cubes and place them in a large bowl. Pour the spicy garlic butter sauce over the top. Gently toss the salmon to ensure each piece is well coated. This step is crucial for even flavor. Now, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the salmon cook evenly and develop a nice crust. Once preheated, arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they do not overlap. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, ensuring they cook perfectly. Air fry the salmon bites for 8 to 10 minutes. At the 5-minute mark, check the salmon to see how it's cooking. You're looking for a golden brown exterior and a cooked-through center. To check for doneness, the salmon should flake easily with a fork. It should look opaque and not translucent. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen as you wait for these bites to finish cooking! To get a golden brown crust on your salmon bites, follow these tips: - Pat the salmon dry: Use paper towels to remove moisture. This helps the coating crisp up nicely. - Use a single layer: Place the salmon in a single layer in the air fryer. This allows hot air to flow around each piece. - Don’t overcrowd: If you stack the bites, they won’t cook evenly. Give each piece room to breathe. To avoid overcooking, monitor the time closely. Start checking at 5 minutes. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder. Pair your salmon bites with fresh sides. A crisp salad or garlic rice works great. You can also serve it with a tangy dipping sauce like tzatziki or a simple lemon aioli. These pairings enhance the meal and make it even more delicious. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your salmon bites easily. Try different spices for new tastes. Here are some options: - Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor. - Ginger: Gives a spicy and fresh kick. - Lemon pepper: Brightens the dish with zest. Citrus can also change the taste. Instead of lemon, use lime or orange juice. Each adds a unique twist. Experimenting with different seasonings keeps your dish exciting. If you want a different fish, try these options: - Trout: Similar texture and flavor profile. - Cod: Mild flavor that absorbs spices well. You can also use non-fish proteins: - Chicken: Cut into bite-sized pieces and marinate. - Tofu: Firm tofu works great when marinated. These substitutions can make the dish work for various diets. Just adjust cooking times according to the protein you choose. Enjoy the versatility of this recipe! After enjoying your Air Fryer Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon Bites, let them cool first. This step prevents excess moisture when you store them. Use a shallow container or a plate covered with plastic wrap for easy storage. Avoid using a deep bowl, as it can trap steam and make the salmon soggy. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider dividing them into smaller portions. This helps with quick meals later. To reheat salmon bites, use your air fryer again. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites in a single layer for even heating. Heat them for about 3-5 minutes. This method keeps the bites crispy and flavorful. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the salmon rubbery. Check for warmth before serving. If you want, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor. You can tell the salmon is cooked by looking for a few signs. The fish should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. The color changes from bright pink to a lighter shade. For the best results, check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Use a food thermometer to check. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. To do this, mix the marinade and coat the salmon cubes. Then, cover them and place them in the fridge. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. Just remember to cook the salmon bites right before serving for the best taste. This recipe is great for meal prep. You can portion the salmon bites into containers for easy meals. Pair them with sides like rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies. These sides complement the salmon well and make for a balanced meal. Store everything together or separately, as you prefer. This blog post explored how to make delicious air-fried salmon bites. We covered main ingredients like salmon, butter, and seasonings. You learned about preparing garlic butter sauce and how to air fry the salmon correctly. Perfect texture comes from the right cooking times and techniques. We also shared tips for storage and reheating your leftovers. With these steps and ideas, you can make this dish your own. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!

Air Fryer Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon Bites

Satisfy your taste buds with these Air Fryer Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon Bites! This quick and easy recipe features succulent salmon pieces tossed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, perfectly air-fried to golden perfection. Ready in just 20 minutes, they're perfect for appetizers or a tasty dinner option. Click to discover how to make these delicious bites and elevate your next meal with a spicy kick!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb salmon fillet, skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.

    Place the salmon cubes in a large bowl and pour the spicy garlic butter sauce over them. Gently toss to ensure all the pieces are well coated.

      Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

        Once preheated, arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.

          Air fry the salmon bites for 8-10 minutes, checking at the 5-minute mark, until they are cooked through and have a nice golden brown exterior.

            Carefully remove the salmon bites from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.

              Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the salmon bites on a colorful platter, sprinkle with more parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for a pop of color. Add toothpicks for easy serving during gatherings!