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To make Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon Bites, gather these ingredients: - 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, washed and chopped - 1 teaspoon lemon zest, freshly grated - 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet based on preference) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Lemon wedges, for serving If you need to change an ingredient, here are some ideas: - Use olive oil instead of unsalted butter for a different flavor. - Substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic if you are short on time. - Dried parsley can replace fresh parsley if needed, but fresh gives a better taste. - Instead of lemon zest, use the juice of half a lemon for brightness. - You can use other fish, like trout or cod, if salmon is not available. Choose the best salmon for your dish with these tips: - Look for bright, vibrant colors. Fresh salmon should look pink or orange. - Check for a fresh, clean smell. There should be no fishy odor. - Feel the flesh; it should be firm and bounce back when pressed. - Ask your fishmonger for wild-caught salmon for the best flavor. - If possible, choose salmon with clear eyes and shiny skin; this indicates freshness. Start by gathering your ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine these items: - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped - 1 teaspoon lemon zest - 1/2 teaspoon paprika - Salt and black pepper to taste Mix them well. This garlic butter marinade will give the salmon a rich flavor. The butter melts and combines with the garlic and spices, creating a fragrant mix. Take your fresh salmon fillet and cut it into bite-sized cubes. You need about 1 pound. Gently add the salmon cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Use a spatula or spoon to coat each piece. This step is key for flavor. Let the salmon marinate for 15 to 20 minutes. This time allows the flavors to soak in while you preheat your air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the salmon cook evenly. Once preheated, carefully place the marinated salmon bites in the air fryer basket. Make sure they do not touch each other. This keeps them from sticking and promotes even cooking. Air fry the salmon for 8 to 10 minutes. Halfway through, pause the air fryer to flip the bites. This step ensures browning on all sides. The salmon is done when it turns light golden and is fully cooked. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it. When finished, remove the bites carefully. Place them on a serving plate. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh touch. Enjoy the garlic butter taste right away! To cook the salmon bites evenly, arrange them in a single layer. Make sure they do not touch each other. This helps hot air circulate freely and cooks each piece perfectly. If you have many bites, cook them in batches. It’s better than overcrowding the basket. Overcooking salmon can dry it out. To prevent this, check the salmon at the 8-minute mark. The fish should flake easily with a fork. If it still looks raw in the center, add a minute or two. Remember, it will continue to cook after you take it out. Always preheat your air fryer. This helps the salmon get that nice golden color. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your salmon cubes. For smaller pieces, reduce the time slightly. Lastly, clean your air fryer basket after each use to keep it in good shape. {{image_4}} You can switch up the flavor of your salmon bites by adding herbs. Try dill for a fresh taste. Basil gives a sweet note, while thyme adds warmth. You can also use spices. Chili flakes bring heat, and cumin adds depth. If you don’t have an air fryer, no problem! You can bake your salmon bites in the oven. Set it to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes. Broiling is another option. It gives a nice char; just keep an eye on it. You can also pan-sear the salmon in a skillet for a crispy crust. These salmon bites shine when served with fresh sides. A garden salad adds crunch and brightness. Pair with rice or quinoa for a filling meal. Don’t forget lemon wedges! They add a zesty kick. You can also serve them with a creamy dip, like tzatziki or garlic aioli, for extra flavor. After you enjoy your salmon bites, save the leftovers. Place them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure they cool down before sealing the container. This helps keep them tasty and safe. To reheat your salmon bites, use the air fryer again. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 4-5 minutes. This method helps the salmon regain its crispy texture. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Microwaving can make the salmon dry. You can freeze salmon bites if you have too many. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This helps avoid freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat as mentioned above. Refrigerating is best for short-term storage. Freezing works for longer storage needs. You can pair these salmon bites with many sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition. - Rice or quinoa: These grains soak up the flavors well. - Salad: A fresh green salad with light dressing complements the dish. - Mashed potatoes: Creamy potatoes balance the garlic butter taste. Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. Look for a light pink color in the center. The fish should not look raw. Use a food thermometer for best results. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If it reaches this, you can enjoy it with confidence. Yes, you can use other fish for this recipe. Here are some good alternatives: - Trout: It has a mild flavor and cooks quickly. - Cod: This white fish is flaky and absorbs flavors well. - Tilapia: It is a budget-friendly option with a mild taste. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness and type of fish. Enjoy experimenting with flavors! You learned how to make delicious Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon Bites. We covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips to ensure your salmon turns out great. Remember to select fresh salmon, marinate well, and use your air fryer correctly. Feel free to try different herbs and pairings to mix things up. Proper storage also keeps your leftovers tasty. Now, enjoy your cooking and impress your friends with this easy and fun recipe!

Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon Bites

Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon Bites! This simple recipe features fresh salmon marinated in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly cooked in your air fryer for a crispy finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, these bite-sized delights are ideal for a quick snack or a fancy appetizer. Click through to explore how to make this delicious dish and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, washed and chopped

1 teaspoon lemon zest, freshly grated

1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet based on preference)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

In a medium mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are fully combined, creating a fragrant garlic butter marinade.

    Gently add the salmon cubes to the marinade, using a spatula or spoon to toss and coat each piece thoroughly. Let the salmon marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature, which allows the flavors to meld while you preheat the air fryer.

      Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for approximately 5 minutes to ensure it's hot when the salmon bites go in.

        Carefully place the marinated salmon pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure that the bites do not touch each other, as this will promote even cooking.

          Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes. After 4-5 minutes, pause the air fryer to gently flip the bites to ensure even browning. The salmon is done when it is fully cooked through and has a light golden hue on the outside. Note that cooking time may vary based on the size of the salmon cubes.

            Upon completion, carefully remove the salmon bites from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley and arrange lemon wedges around for an added touch and flavor.

              Serve immediately while the salmon bites are still warm, savoring the delightful garlic butter taste that will surely impress!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4