Ingredients:

  • 3 lb skinless Salmon Fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted) or Olive Oil
  • 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Sweet Paprika
  • 1 tsp Dried Granulated Garlic
  • 1 tsp Dried Granulated Onion
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust for heat)
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley or Chives, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 Lemon or Lime Wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillet completely dry using kitchen paper. Cut the fillet into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
  2. Combine Spice Blend: In a small bowl, whisk together the Smoked Paprika, Sweet Paprika, Dried Granulated Garlic, Dried Granulated Onion, Dried Oregano, Dried Thyme, Cayenne Pepper, Kosher Salt, and Black Pepper.
  3. Coat the Salmon: Place the salmon cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the melted butter or olive oil, tossing gently to coat fully.
  4. Blacken: Sprinkle the entire spice mixture over the buttered salmon cubes. Toss gently with a spatula or your hands until every cube is thoroughly coated.
  5. Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes, if your model requires preheating.
  6. Load the Basket: Place the salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single, uncrowded layer. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure maximum crispness.
  7. Cook, Shake, and Finish: Cook the bites for 3 minutes. Open the basket, gently shake or turn the pieces, and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes (total cook time 6-7 minutes).
  8. Check Doneness: The salmon is ready when the outside has a deep, dark crust and the internal flesh flakes easily with a fork (Internal temperature should register 145°F/63°C).
  9. Serve: Transfer the finished salmon bites immediately to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley/chives and serve piping hot with lemon or lime wedges.