Description
Deliciously seasoned salmon bites baked under the broiler or air fried for a quick, tender, and flavorful appetizer or main dish. Featuring a savory butter and spice mixture, these salmon pieces are perfectly cooked in just minutes, making them ideal for a healthy, protein-packed snack or meal.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1½ pounds (680g) salmon fillets, skinless or skin on
Seasoning & Butter Mixture
- 3-4 tablespoons (42-56g) unsalted butter and/or olive oil
- 2 teaspoons (8g) granulated onion or powder
- 2 teaspoons (7-8g) granulated garlic or powder
- 1 teaspoon (3g) paprika
- 1 teaspoon (1-2g) oregano
- 1 teaspoon (1-2g) dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon (1-2g) cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Broiler: Set your oven to broil and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Prepare Seasoning Butter Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, add the butter along with paprika, granulated onion and garlic, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Microwave in 30-60 second intervals, stirring each time until the butter is fully melted. Alternatively, olive oil can be used instead of butter.
- Prep Salmon Bites: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then cut them into evenly sized bite-sized pieces. Place the pieces in a bowl or plate.
- Season Salmon: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salmon pieces. Pour the melted butter and seasoning mixture over the salmon, gently stirring to coat all pieces evenly. For enhanced flavor, refrigerate and let it marinate for about 30 minutes if you have time.
- Prepare for Broiling: Arrange the seasoned salmon bites on the parchment-lined baking tray in a single layer. Lightly spray the top with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Broil the Salmon: Broil the salmon pieces for 3-4 minutes, then carefully flip them over and broil for an additional 3 minutes. Cook until the salmon is fork-tender or reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Air Fryer Preparation (Optional): If using an air fryer, lightly spray the basket with oil. Place the salmon bites in an even layer inside the basket, working in batches if necessary.
- Air Fry the Salmon: Air fry the salmon pieces at a typical air fryer temperature (around 400°F/200°C) for 7-8 minutes, flipping once halfway through the cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F for safe consumption.
- Serve: Remove the salmon bites from the oven or air fryer and serve immediately. These bites pair wonderfully as appetizers with remoulade sauce or as a main course served alongside seasoned rice.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the salmon in the seasoning butter mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check salmon doneness; 140-145°F is the recommended internal temperature for tender, fully cooked salmon.
- If broiling, keep a close eye to prevent overcooking or burning, as broilers can vary in intensity.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount or omit for a milder taste.
- Air fryer cooking times may vary depending on the model and thickness of salmon pieces.
- Leftover salmon bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
