Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Salmon bites are a game-changer for dinner: they’re quick, healthy and easy to prepare. Because the salmon is cut into bite-sized pieces, you get more seasoning on each piece, bringing out that delicious lemon-garlic flavor even more. With this recipe you can have a tasty, restaurant-quality meal on the table in less than 20 minutes.

Make it as a meal with a side of air-fried asparagus or add an air-fried baked potato.

There are so many things to love about this recipe, from the quick cooking time to the perfect seasoning. The marinade is the real star with bright lemon, garlic and that little touch of paprika. It’s a simple, straightforward recipe with amazing flavor that’s sure to become your new favorite way to prepare salmon.

Notes on ingredients

• Salmon: You can buy a salmon fillet or portions of salmon. Skin-on fillets work, but you’ll want to remove the skin before dicing.
• Lemon juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice tends to have a more subtle flavor.
• I’m Willow: You can use reduced sodium opinion, coconut aminos or tamari in the same amount.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: You can also use avocado oil, always popular for air frying.
• Minced garlic: Freshly minced garlic always tastes best, but you can also use pre-minced jarred garlic. It just tastes more bitter.
• Paprika: To add more flavor you can also use smoked paprika or hot paprika.
• Fresh dill: This fresh herb adds so much flavor, so make sure you don’t skip it. If using dried dill, reduce the amount to 2 teaspoons.
• Lemon wedges: It’s always good to serve alongside seafood to add some acid.

Salmon options

Portions or Fillets: You can buy salmon in fillets, which are whole portions, or in portions of salmon cut into individual portions. You want thicker pieces for this so you can easily cut them into bite-sized pieces. The thinner parts of the fillet will cook faster, so keep an eye on them.

Frozen salmon: Frozen salmon is a lifesaver for those busy nights! Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or in cold water for about 30 minutes if you’re short on time. Don’t forget to dry it before marinating so it can soak up all that flavorful goodness.

Wild-caught or farm-raised: Wild-caught salmon is that deeper pinkish-red salmon you see in the store. It has a bolder, richer flavor and firmer texture. Farmed salmon is that lighter pink salmon that has a milder flavor. Farm raising is almost always cheaper. Both are great here, so choose what works for you.

Skin-On or Skin-Free: If your salmon has skin, you can easily remove it by sliding a sharp knife between the skin and the flesh and it will come right off.

Use liners for easy cleaning

Parchment linings: These pre-cut and perforated parchment liners are a lifesaver for cleaning your air fryer. The small holes ensure that air circulates properly so that your salmon (or whatever you’re cooking) gets perfectly crispy. Pro tip: Don’t put the liner in until after preheating, and always weigh it down with food so it doesn’t end up flying around.

Silicone liners: If you like reusable options, silicone liners are the way to go. They fit perfectly in the fryer basket and, what’s more, they are dishwasher safe. Invest in one of these and you’ll never look back.

How to know when salmon is ready

Test the flakiness by gently pressing with a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. If it flakes easily and the pulp is opaque, it’s ready. If you’re unsure, a quick check with a meat thermometer is foolproof: look for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Perfectly cooked salmon should be juicy, tender and just cooked through.

Adaptation to different styles of air fryers

Basket air fryers: This recipe is designed for basket air fryers. Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer and cook at 400°F for 6–8 minutes. Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to ensure even cooking.

Air Fryer Ovens Settings: For best results, use a grill or air fryer. Check the salmon for doneness after 8-10 minutes, as it may take a little longer to cook than in a basket air fryer.

Toaster-style air fryers: Arrange the salmon pieces on the tray leaving space between each piece for proper air flow. Rotate the pan halfway through cooking. Expect the cooking time to be slightly longer – check for doneness at 8-10 minutes.

Cooking instructions

If you don’t have an air fryer, don’t worry – you can still make these in the oven. Simply place the morsels in a single layer on a pan, then bake at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until cooked through.