### **Air Fryer Salmon Bites: Crispy, Juicy & Ready in 10 Minutes!**
#### ** Introduction**
These **Air Fryer Salmon Bites** are the perfect quick, healthy, and protein-packed meal or snack! Tender salmon cubes are coated in a flavorful spice blend, air-fried to crispy perfection, and served with a creamy dipping sauce. Ideal for **meal prep, salads, tacos, or appetizers**—ready in just **10 minutes**!
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### ** Origin & Cultural Significance**
– **Global inspiration**: Combines Asian-style glazes (like teriyaki or honey sriracha) with American convenience cooking.
– **Health-forward**: Air frying reduces oil while keeping salmon’s heart-healthy omega-3s intact.
– **Versatility**: Similar to Japanese **salmon yakitori** or Nordic **gravlax bites**, but with a modern, crispy twist.
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### ** Ingredients & Quantity**
*(Serves 2 as a main, 4 as an appetizer)*
#### **For the Salmon Bites**
– **1 lb (450g) fresh salmon**, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
– **1 tbsp olive oil** (or avocado oil)
– **1 tsp garlic powder**
– **1 tsp smoked paprika**
– **½ tsp onion powder**
– **½ tsp salt**
– **¼ tsp black pepper**
– **¼ tsp cayenne** (optional, for heat)
#### **For the Dipping Sauce (Optional)**
– **¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayo**
– **1 tbsp lemon juice**
– **1 tsp honey or maple syrup**
– **1 tsp dill or parsley** (fresh or dried)
– **1 clove garlic**, minced
#### **Optional Additions**
– **Glaze**: Toss cooked bites in **1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp honey** (air fry 1 more minute).
– **Spicy**: Add **1 tsp sriracha** to the sauce.
– **Herby**: Mix in **1 tsp lemon zest** with the spices.
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### ** Tips for Success**
✔ **Pat salmon dry** before seasoning for maximum crispiness.
✔ **Don’t overcrowd** the air fryer—cook in batches if needed.
✔ **Check early** (at 5 mins) to avoid overcooking.
✔ **Skinless salmon works best** (or remove skin to prevent chewiness).
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### ** Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Prep**: Cut salmon into cubes, pat dry, and toss with oil and spices.
2. **Air Fry**:
– Arrange salmon in a **single layer** in the air fryer basket.
– Cook at **400°F (200°C) for 6-8 mins**, shaking halfway, until edges are crispy and internal temp reaches **145°F (63°C)**.
3. **Sauce**: Whisk all sauce ingredients while salmon cooks.
4. **Serve**: Dip salmon bites in sauce or add to salads/tacos!
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### ** Description**
These bites are **crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth tender inside**, with a smoky-sweet spice blend. The creamy dipping sauce adds a tangy contrast—**irresistibly addictive**!
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### ** Nutritional Information (Per Serving, ½ lb salmon)**
– **Calories**: ~280
– **Protein**: 30g
– **Carbs**: 4g
– **Fat**: 16g (healthy omega-3s)
– **Sugar**: 2g (with sauce)
*(Glaze/sauce will add slight variations.)*
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### ** Conclusion**
A **fast, foolproof** way to enjoy salmon with minimal cleanup! Perfect for **keto, gluten-free, or pescatarian diets**.
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### ** Serving Recommendations**
– **As a meal**: Over rice/quinoa with roasted veggies.
– **As an app**: Skewer with toothpicks + sauce.
– **In tacos**: Add slaw + avocado crema.
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### ** Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
For a lighter version:
– Use **fat-free Greek yogurt** in the sauce.
– Skip the glaze and squeeze **fresh lemon** instead.
– Serve with **veggie sticks** for crunch.
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** Pro Tip**: Double the batch for **meal prep**—reheat in the air fryer for 2 mins!