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Air Fryer Salmon Bites

One-inch salmon cubes tossed in a panko-Parmesan coating and air fried to a caramelised crust with a tender centre. Drying the surface and spacing the pieces is what makes them crisp.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1-1.5 lb skinless salmon fillets cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1-2 tbsp neutral oil avocado or canola
  • 1/2 cup panko or breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan grated
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Dijon or yellow mustard optional, for adhesion
  • lemon wedges and chopped parsley to serve

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the salmon dry, toss with oil, then coat in the panko-Parmesan mixture. Brush with a thin layer of mustard first if using.
  3. Space the bites in a single layer. Work in batches if needed.
  4. Air fry 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and just opaque inside.
  5. Rest 2 minutes, then squeeze lemon over and scatter parsley.

Notes

Dry the surface: after oiling, let the cubes sit uncovered 5 minutes so the crust clings.
Space matters: crowded batches steam. Cook in shifts for a crowd.
Season the coating, not just the fish, and add a pinch more salt to it right before dredging.
Garlic herb: add 1/2 tsp each dried thyme and oregano to the coating. Spicy maple: swap chili powder for paprika and drizzle with maple after cooking.