Description
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce are a perfect blend of crispy texture and rich, buttery flavor. Quick to prepare, packed with protein, and served with a luscious garlic cream sauce, they make an irresistible main course or appetizer for seafood lovers!
Ingredients
- 2 salmon filets (6 ounces each), skin removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (from 1–2 limes)
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep – Preheat the air fryer to 390°F and spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cut & Season the Salmon – Pat the salmon dry and cut it into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the salmon in the mixture until fully coated.
- Air Fry to Perfection – Place the salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 4-5 minutes, flip, and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F.
- Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce – While the salmon is cooking, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper, cooking for 4-5 minutes until fully combined and heated through.
- Toss & Serve – Pour the garlic cream sauce over the cooked salmon bites and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower mash for a lower-carb option.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, let the salmon bites rest for a minute after air frying before adding the sauce.
- Fresh lime juice adds a tangy contrast to the rich, buttery sauce.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a well-balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American, Seafood