- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispier texture.
- Season the Salmon:
- In a large bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the blackening seasoning over the salmon, tossing again to ensure each piece is well coated with the spices.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps to start the cooking process with a hot environment, ensuring a nice sear on the salmon.
- Cook the Salmon Bites:
- Arrange the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching to allow for proper air circulation.
- Cook for 7-9 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a slightly crisp exterior. There’s no need to flip the salmon bites halfway through cooking, as the air fryer circulates hot air around the food.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Perfect Blackened Air Fryer Salmon Bites:
- Homemade Seasoning: Adjust the homemade blackening seasoning to your taste preferences, especially the level of heat from the cayenne pepper.
- Even Pieces: Try to cut the salmon into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- No Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Serving Suggestions: These salmon bites can be served atop a salad, alongside rice or vegetables, or as a protein-packed snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your Blackened Air Fryer Salmon Bites, a delicious and healthy dish that’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes!