Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce: A Quick and Flavorful Dish

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes, these Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce are the perfect choice. The salmon bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and paired with a rich, garlicky cream sauce that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality levels. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon Bites:

• 2 salmon filets (6 ounces each), skin removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (1-2 limes, squeezed)
• 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 (59.5g)
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. Prepare the Salmon Bites:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 390°F and spraying the basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Pat the salmon filets dry with a paper towel, and use a sharp knife to cut each filet into 1-inch squares. This size is perfect for creating bite-sized pieces that cook evenly and quickly.

In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the salmon bites, gently tossing to ensure each piece is well coated with the flavorful marinade.

2. Air Fry the Salmon:
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, place the salmon bites in an even layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry the salmon bites for 4-5 minutes, then flip them over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 140-145°F. The salmon should be cooked through but still juicy and tender.

Once the salmon bites are done, transfer them to a bowl and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

3. Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce:
While the salmon is cooking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is heated through, which should take about 4-5 minutes. The sauce should be smooth, creamy, and infused with the rich flavors of garlic and parsley.

4. Serve:
Pour the warm garlic cream sauce over the cooked salmon bites, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Serve the salmon bites over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice for a complete and satisfying meal. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the tender, flavorful salmon, making this dish a standout on any dinner table.

Quick Facts:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: 2 servings

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cooking the salmon bites in batches ensures they cook evenly and get that perfect crispness.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime juice, garlic, and parsley for the best flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or your favorite grain.

Final Thoughts:

These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce are a fantastic option for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy a gourmet dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender salmon, zesty lime, and rich garlic cream sauce is sure to make this recipe a regular in your meal rotation. Give it a try and savor the flavors of this easy, yet elegant dish!

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