Description
These Crispy Salmon Bites are bite-sized pieces of fresh salmon, coated in a flavorful breading and cooked until golden and crunchy. Served with a creamy, tangy dipping sauce, they’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or protein-packed meal. Light, crispy, and full of flavor, they’re easy to make in the air fryer, oven, or on the stovetop.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- Fresh salmon fillet (skin removed, cut into bite-sized cubes)
- Egg (for coating)
- Panko breadcrumbs (for crunch)
- Flour (helps the breading stick)
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for frying or air frying)
For the Sauce:
- Mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- Greek yogurt or sour cream (for tang)
- Lemon juice (for brightness)
- Honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)
- Dijon mustard (for a little kick)
- Garlic, minced
- Chopped fresh dill or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel and cut it into bite-sized pieces. This helps the breading stick better.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash.
- In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Coat the Salmon Bites
- Dip each piece of salmon into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating sticks.
- Set the coated salmon bites on a plate while you prepare to cook them.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Bites
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease the basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
- Air fry for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Stovetop Method (Pan-Frying):
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the salmon bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Oven Method:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.
- Arrange the salmon bites on the sheet and spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and chopped herbs.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve alongside the crispy salmon bites.
Notes
- For an extra crispy texture, double-coat the salmon by dipping it in the egg wash and breadcrumbs twice.
- If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry before coating.
- Try different seasonings like cajun spice, Old Bay, or chili flakes for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer, Pan-Fried, Baked
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg