Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Sesame Garlic Marinade

Prep: 15 minCook: 10 min2 servingsmediumAsian
Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Sesame Garlic Marinade

Tender salmon chunks marinated in a savory blend of coconut aminos, garlic, and sesame oil, then air fried until crispy on the outside and flaky within. The quick marinade infuses the fish with Asian-inspired flavors while the air fryer creates an irresistible contrast of textures. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining, these protein-packed bites pair beautifully with rice and fresh vegetables. The optional spicy mayo adds a creamy kick that complements the umami-rich salmon perfectly.

Dairy-FreeNut-Free

Ingredients

2 servings
  • 1 lb salmon
  • 1 Tbsp avocado oil
    olive oil1:1

    neutral flavor works

    Full guide →
  • 3 Tbsp coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
    low-sodium soy sauce1:1glutenadds glutenadds soy

    adds gluten

    Full guide →
  • 1 Tbsp rice vinegar
  • 5 large cloves garlic
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 Tbsp lime juice
  • sea salt, to taste(optional)
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 Tbsp sriracha
    hot sauce1:1

    similar heat level

    Full guide →
  • 1 tsp pure maple syrup

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and maple syrup in small bowl for sauce and refrigerate

  2. 2

    Pat salmon dry and cut into bite-sized chunks, keeping skin on if desired

  3. 3

    Whisk together avocado oil, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, and lime juice

  4. 4

    Marinate salmon chunks in sealed bag for 15 minutes to 24 hours in refrigerator

  5. 5

    Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F for 4 minutes and spray basket

  6. 6

    Arrange marinated salmon in single layer in air fryer basket

  7. 7

    Air fry at 400 degrees F for 8 to 12 minutes until crispy outside and cooked through

  8. 8

    Check internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F with meat thermometer

  9. 9

    Serve immediately with spicy mayo sauce and desired sides

Tips

Tip 1

Leave skin on salmon for extra crispiness and omega-3 benefits, or remove with sharp knife if preferred

Tip 2

Cook in batches if needed to maintain single layer for even crisping and proper air circulation

Tip 3

Check largest piece with thermometer to ensure all salmon reaches safe 145 degrees F internal temperature

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate cooked salmon bites up to 3 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Marinate salmon up to 24 hours ahead, cook just before serving for best texture

Serve With

Best served immediately while crispy, with spicy mayo and rice or vegetables

Common Mistakes

Watch

Avoid overcrowding air fryer basket to prevent steaming instead of crisping

Watch

Don't skip preheating air fryer to ensure proper searing from start

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Swaps

coconut aminos→
low-sodium soy sauce1:1glutenadds glutenadds soy

adds gluten

Full guide →

General Alternatives

sriracha→
hot sauce1:1

similar heat level

Full guide →
avocado oil→
olive oil1:1

neutral flavor works

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Thaw salmon completely and pat very dry before cutting and marinating for best results.

What if I don't have coconut aminos?

Low-sodium soy sauce works as substitute, or try tamari for gluten-free option.

How long will leftover salmon bites keep?

Store in refrigerator up to 3 days, though texture is best when fresh and crispy.