Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Cut the Salmon: Cut the salmon fillet into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches each.
- Season the Salmon: In a large bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Ensure the salmon is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon Bites
- Arrange the Salmon: Place the salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket—you may need to cook in batches.
- Air Fry: Cook the salmon bites at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The salmon should be cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Step 4: Make the Hot Honey
- Prepare Hot Honey: While the salmon is cooking, combine honey and hot sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring to combine. Add red pepper flakes for extra spice and a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of acidity. Warm the mixture for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to boil it.
Step 5: Drizzle and Serve
- Drizzle: Once the salmon bites are done, remove them from the air fryer and transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the salmon bites.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips:
- Hot Honey: Adjust the heat level of the honey by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes.
- Salmon Substitutes: If you prefer, you can substitute the salmon with other types of fish like cod or mahi-mahi, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the salmon bites over rice or quinoa for a full meal, or as an appetizer alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion:
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Hot Honey are a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s simple to make but packed with complexity. The combination of crispy salmon with the sweet and spicy hot honey makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser, whether served as a main dish or appetizer. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!