Description
This Air Fryer Honey Garlic Salmon Bites recipe offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy seafood option perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender salmon cubes are seasoned and air fried to perfection, then tossed in a rich, sweet, and tangy honey garlic sauce that is both glossy and delicious. Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe combines ease and taste effortlessly.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 1½ lbs salmon fillets (skin removed & cut into 1½-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Honey Garlic Sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease the basket to prevent the salmon from sticking during cooking.
- Season the salmon: Pat the salmon cubes dry and place them into a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika evenly. Gently toss the cubes to ensure all pieces are thoroughly coated without breaking them apart.
- Air fry the salmon: Arrange the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for even cooking. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until they are lightly caramelized on the outside and cooked through but still tender.
- Prepare the honey garlic sauce: While the salmon cooks, combine honey, soy sauce, butter, vinegar, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy. If a thicker consistency is preferred, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue simmering for 30 to 60 seconds until slightly thickened.
- Toss and serve: Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving bowl. Pour the warm honey garlic sauce over them and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even crisping.
- The cornstarch slurry is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker sauce that clings better to the salmon.
- Salmon cubes can be substituted with other firm fish or shrimp for variation.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
