Ingredients
Salmon cut into one inch cubes: choose fresh or thawed wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture
Low sodium soy sauce: adds depth with a touch of saltiness without overpowering
Black pepper minced: fresh grinding brings out the aroma much better than pre-ground
Garlic powder: enhances the garlic flavor layer gently without burning
Olive oil: use good quality extra virgin for a fruity note and to help crisp the bites
Unsalted butter: melts evenly for the sauce and lets you control saltiness
Fresh garlic minced: the heart of the sauce’s flavor, use fresh for that pungent kick
Dry white wine: adds acidity and complexity; if unavailable, chicken broth works well too
Heavy cream: creates the richness and smooth texture of the sauce
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: opt for a good aged Parmesan to ensure a nutty, sharp taste
Fresh lemon juice: cuts through the richness, brightens the sauce
Cornstarch: optional but handy for thickening the sauce gently without clumps
Fresh parsley chopped: adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color to finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Salmon:
Pat the salmon cubes dry using paper towels to ensure they crisp up nicely. Toss the pieces with soy sauce olive oil minced black pepper and garlic powder to coat evenly. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray so nothing sticks.
Air Fry the Salmon:
Place the salmon bites in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for about eight minutes turning or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispness on all sides.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
While the salmon cooks melt the butter over medium heat in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly about thirty seconds until aromatic but not browned. Pour in the white wine and let it cook down for about a minute until reduced and most of the alcohol has evaporated.
Finish the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low medium and stir in the heavy cream bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Mix in the fresh lemon juice and parsley. If you like a thicker sauce mix the lemon juice with cornstarch before adding it in. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Plate and Serve:
Arrange the crispy salmon bites on plates and drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. This goes beautifully alongside fluffy rice and steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
A bowl of grilled chicken with herbs and cheese.
Pin it
A bowl of grilled chicken with herbs and cheese. | gracefulflavors.com
You Must Know
High in protein and healthy omega-3 fats
Cooking time may vary by air fryer model and salmon piece size
Sauce can be easily adjusted to lighter versions using half-and-half
Parmesan cheese is my favorite ingredient here because its nutty sharpness balances the richness perfectly. I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering all eyes lit up when the sauce hit the plate – it was an instant hit.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to keep the salmon tender and sauce smooth. The salmon is best enjoyed fresh but the sauce reheats well for a quick second meal.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a dairy-free or lighter sauce, coconut cream or cashew cream can replace heavy cream with a slightly different but delicious flavor. For a non-alcoholic version of the sauce, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of white wine. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can replace parsley for a new twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these salmon bites with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus to keep things light and nutritious. Quinoa or couscous also pairs well if you want a grain alternative to rice. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Cultural Background
Air frying salmon is a modern twist on traditional pan-searing, using hot circulating air to get crispiness without extra oil. Garlic and Parmesan are classic Mediterranean flavors that enrich simple fish dishes, making this recipe a blend of contemporary technique and timeless taste.
