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Crispy Air-Fryer Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Sauce

crispy air-fryer salmon bites - featured image

These crispy air-fryer salmon bites are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, they feature a golden, seasoned exterior and a tender, flaky inside, all complemented by a bright lemon garlic sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut the salmon fillet into 1-inch cubes. Remove skin if present. Pat cubes dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
  3. Add panko breadcrumbs and toss until they stick to the seasoned salmon.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Arrange salmon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces. Work in batches if needed.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping with tongs halfway through. Cook until golden brown and flaky.
  7. While salmon cooks, make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
  8. Serve salmon bites immediately, drizzled with sauce or with sauce on the side. Garnish with extra dill and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat salmon dry thoroughly for maximum crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. For oven baking, cook at 425°F for 10-12 minutes. Sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon bites, crispy salmon, lemon garlic sauce, quick salmon recipe, healthy salmon, weeknight dinner