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The Ultimate Guide to Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce

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!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 -3 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. Preheat & Prep – Preheat the air fryer to 390°F and spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

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