Name: Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 19 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Lemon wedges (for serving); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 garlic clove, minced or grated; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh dill or parsley (optional for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast and fuss-free this recipe is. The air fryer gives the salmon a golden crust without overcooking, while the creamy garlic sauce adds richness and balance. It’s perfect for a low-carb dinner, a high-protein snack, or a fancy appetizer that’s secretly easy to pull off. Plus, the sauce doubles as a dip for veggies or a drizzle over rice and roasted potatoes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salmon bites:

Fresh salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into chunks)
Olive oil
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice

For the creamy garlic sauce:

Mayonnaise
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Fresh garlic (minced)
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Salt
Pepper
Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
In a bowl, I toss the salmon chunks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
I arrange the salmon pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 7–9 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
While the salmon cooks, I stir together the sauce ingredients—mayo, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon, salt, and pepper—until smooth.
I let the sauce chill in the fridge for a few minutes while the salmon finishes.
Once the salmon bites are ready, I serve them hot with the creamy garlic sauce on the side or drizzled over top, garnished with chopped herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 4 people, depending on whether I serve it as a main or appetizer. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 7–9 minutes to cook, so it’s on the table in under 20 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the garlic sauce for a spicy sriracha mayo or honey mustard for a different flavor. I’ve also added a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a splash of soy sauce to the salmon for an Asian-inspired twist. When I want it lighter, I use all Greek yogurt in the sauce, and it still tastes great.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover salmon bites keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to bring back the crispiness. I store the garlic sauce separately in the fridge and stir it before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and air frying. Moisture affects the crispness, so I make sure it’s dry.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

I prefer skinless pieces for this recipe, but if the skin is on, I remove it before cutting into chunks for even cooking and easier eating.

Can I bake these instead?

Yes, I bake them at 425°F on a parchment-lined sheet for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as air fried, but still delicious.

What sides go well with salmon bites?

I like serving them with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad. They also work great as taco filling or over a grain bowl.

Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. The flavors deepen as it chills, and it stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce are one of those meals that feel gourmet but take almost no time at all. I love the mix of crispy salmon and rich, garlicky dip—it’s satisfying, versatile, and always a hit at my table. Whether I’m making dinner for two or serving up a fun party snack, this recipe delivers every single time.