Name: AND HEALTHY DINNER Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound skinless salmon filet, cut into 1-inch cubes; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves, minced

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a tasty, easy, and AND HEALTHY DINNER that’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes, these Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Butter are exactly what you need. The combination of tender salmon cubes, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic butter creates a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is not only incredibly simple but also a fantastic way to get a boost of omega-3s and protein in a deliciously satisfying way.

AND HEALTHY DINNER Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, keeping the dish light yet flavorful, with textures and tastes that sing in harmony. These simple staples come together to create a dish that is both nourishing and exciting.

1 pound skinless salmon filet (cut into 1-inch cubes): Fresh, tender salmon provides the perfect soft texture and rich taste.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon without overpowering it.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of gentle heat and depth.
3 tablespoons melted butter: Creates a luscious, silky sauce that coats every bite.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh and zesty citrus notes.
3 garlic cloves (minced): Brings a punch of savory aroma that perfectly balances the butter and lemon.

How to Make AND HEALTHY DINNER

Step 1: Season the Salmon

Start by placing your salmon cubes into a mixing bowl and generously seasoning them with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is vital because it allows the inherent flavors of the salmon to shine through, while the seasoning forms a delicious, simple base.

Step 2: Add the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Next, pour in the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic to the bowl with the salmon. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until each piece is coated in the silky, fragrant sauce. This flavorful mixture will infuse the salmon bites with rich buttery goodness and a tangy punch, making every bite irresistible.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon Bites

Line your air fryer basket with a liner to prevent the sauce from dripping through. Carefully add the salmon pieces and sauce in a single layer, ensuring you don’t crowd them to guarantee even cooking. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the salmon is flaky and cooked through but still juicy inside. The air fryer method gives these bites a slightly crisp exterior while keeping things tender and moist – perfection!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your salmon bites are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish and don’t forget to drizzle any leftover lemon garlic butter from the basket on top. This final touch adds extra flavor and moisture, making the dish truly divine. It’s an effortlessly elegant AND HEALTHY DINNER you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Serve AND HEALTHY DINNER

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill make for a bright, colorful garnish that enhances the freshness of the salmon and complements the lemon garlic butter beautifully. You can also sprinkle a few lemon zest shavings on top for an extra citrus burst that delights the palate.

Side Dishes

Pair these salmon bites with light and nutritious sides such as a crisp mixed greens salad, garlic roasted asparagus, or warm quinoa. Each side dish adds texture and balance, rounding out your meal into a wholesome AND HEALTHY DINNER that satisfies both your hunger and your health goals.

Creative Ways to Present

Switch things up by serving your salmon bites on top of a creamy cauliflower mash or a vibrant grain bowl that includes colorful veggies and a tangy dressing. For a fun twist, skewer the salmon bites for a visually appealing appetizer that’s easy to share. No matter how you serve it, this recipe will wow anyone lucky enough to try it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra salmon bites, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. This way, you can enjoy a quick, flavorful AND HEALTHY DINNER whenever you need a fast meal.

Freezing

To freeze, lay the cooked salmon bites flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen salmon bites stay fresh for up to 2 months. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep and busy days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in an air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes to preserve their tender texture without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect buttery, garlicky flavor intact. Reheating properly keeps this AND HEALTHY DINNER tasting freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon bites, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and air frying. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture from diluting your sauce.

What can I substitute for butter to make it dairy-free?

For a dairy-free option, use melted coconut oil or olive oil in place of butter. Both will provide a delicious richness, though coconut oil adds a slight tropical note, while olive oil keeps the flavors more neutral and heart-healthy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These salmon bites store well and can be quickly reheated, making them a perfect AND HEALTHY DINNER for meal prepping. Just add your favorite sides, and you have a nutritious meal ready in no time.

Can I add other seasonings to the salmon?

Definitely feel free to customize! Dill, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne can add new dimensions to the flavor profile, but be mindful to keep the lemon and garlic as the star players in this dish.

Do I need an air fryer to make this dish?

While air frying is the quickest and most efficient method, you can also bake the salmon bites in the oven at 400°F for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, and you’ll still enjoy a wonderful AND HEALTHY DINNER.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Salmon Bites recipe is a testament to how effortless AND HEALTHY DINNER can be without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a quick, nourishing meal that feels special every time. So grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and treat yourself to a plate of these lemon garlic butter salmon bites—you won’t regret it!

AND HEALTHY DINNER Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 30 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 17 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

These Air Fryer Salmon Bites are a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option featuring tender, juicy salmon cubes tossed in a flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer, they are crispy on the outside and moist inside, making a perfect protein-packed meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Bites

1 pound skinless salmon filet, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

3 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions

Season Salmon: Add the cubed salmon into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently until all pieces are evenly seasoned.
Add Sauce: In the same mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Toss the salmon cubes again so they are well coated with the lemon garlic butter mixture.
Air Fry Salmon Bites: Line the air fryer basket with a liner to prevent the sauce from dripping through. Place the coated salmon cubes in the basket, spreading them out to avoid crowding. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. There is no need to shake the basket midway. If your basket is small, cook in two batches for best results.
Serve: Once cooked, serve the salmon bites hot with your favorite sides, or use them to top salads or macro bowls. Drizzle any remaining garlic lemon butter sauce on top for extra flavor.

Notes

Using a liner in the air fryer basket is essential to catch the butter sauce and make cleanup easier.
Do not overcrowd the salmon to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
These bites cook very quickly; monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
Feel free to adjust lemon juice and garlic quantities for stronger or milder flavor.
Can be served with steamed vegetables, rice, or on top of greens for a nutritious meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American