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Glazed Air Fryer Salmon Bites: Ready in Just 11 Minutes

Salmon is not only renowned for its delicious flavour but also for its impressive health benefits. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins, it’s a staple in many households. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to prepare this nutritious fish, look no further than these glazed air fryer salmon bites. Ready in a mere 11 minutes, they’re perfect for a midweek dinner or as a gourmet appetiser for your next gathering.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air frying has become an increasingly popular cooking method, and for good reason. It allows you to achieve that delightful crispy texture associated with frying while using significantly less oil, making it a healthier choice. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking and crispy exteriors without the need for deep frying. This method is not only quicker but also retains the natural juices of the salmon, providing a tender bite in every mouthful.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

• 400g of salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of grated ginger (fresh or powdered)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, and grated ginger. Whisk until well combined, ensuring the honey is fully dissolved. This will create a delightful glaze that infuses the salmon with flavour.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Add the salmon bites to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Allow the salmon to marinate for about 5 minutes. If you have the time, marinating for longer will intensify the flavours even more.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

While the salmon is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F). Preheating is crucial to achieving that crispy texture quickly.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon Bites

Once the air fryer is hot, place the marinated salmon bites in a single layer in the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd, as this would prevent them from cooking evenly. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The salmon is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon bites from the air fryer. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions, if using, for an extra touch of flavour and presentation. These glazed salmon bites are wonderful served warm as an appetiser, or paired with steamed vegetables and rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Salmon Bites

1. Quality Matters: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavour and texture. Wild-caught salmon often has a superior taste compared to farmed varieties.

2. Adjust the Flavours: Feel free to play around with the marinade ingredients! Add a dash of chilli sauce for a spicy kick or substitute maple syrup with brown sugar for a different sweetness.

3. Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best enjoyed when it’s still moist, so keep an eye on it as it cooks. Remember, residual heat will continue to cook the fish even after it’s been removed from the air fryer.

Conclusion

These glazed air fryer salmon bites are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal in record time. With just 11 minutes of cooking, you can bring together a gourmet dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for busy weekdays or as an elegant addition to your dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and savour the incredible flavours of salmon like never before!