Teriyaki Salmon Bites
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Whip up something special tonight with these Teriyaki Salmon Bites, an absolute delight with its zesty marinade and a side of fresh avocado cucumber salad. It’s a simple, yet incredibly tasty dish that’s bound to impress everyone at the dinner table without any hassle!
Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bites
Let me tell you about these Teriyaki Salmon Bites – they’re a real game-changer for busy weeknights. First off, you’ve got these juicy salmon pieces, soaking up all the goodness of a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, cooked to perfection with just a hint of crispness.
Then, there’s the side of fresh, zesty avocado cucumber salad, adding a burst of freshness that complements the salmon beautifully; it’s a simple, yet incredibly satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
- Salmon Fillet: Opt for skinless salmon fillets which you can easily cut into small 1-inch pieces, however if you buy wild-caught salmon, more often than not it comes with the skin on.
- Teriyaki Sauce: This is key for that sweet and savory glaze. If you don’t have pre-made teriyaki sauce, you can whip up a delicious teriyaki sauce using my recipe here.
- Sesame Oil: It infuses the dish with a delicious, nutty aroma. If you need a substitute, a neutral oil like canola can be used, though the sesame flavor will be missed.
- Cornstarch: This helps to crisp up the salmon and thicken the teriyaki glaze. Feel free to substitute with arrowroot powder or potato starch.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. However, be careful with the salt as this dish already has a high sodium.
- Ripe Avocados: They add a creamy texture to the salad. If avocados are out of season or too expensive, a dollop of Greek yogurt can add a similar creaminess.
- Cucumber: This brings a crisp, fresh element to the salad. If cucumbers aren’t your favorite, thinly sliced bell peppers or radishes could provide a similar crunch.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a mild acidity to the salad, balancing the flavors. Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are good substitutes, but they’re a bit stronger, so use them sparingly.
- Sesame Oil: To add that wonderful nutty aroma to the salad.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning, season to taste.
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the sriracha mayo. If you’re not a fan of mayo, try using a mixture of sour cream and a bit of olive oil for a similar texture.
- Sriracha Sauce: This adds a spicy kick. You can adjust the amount to your heat preference or substitute it with any other hot sauce you like.
- Lemon or Lime Juice: A splash of citrus brightens up the sriracha mayo. Both lemon and lime work well, so it’s just a matter of personal preference or what you have on hand.
- Cooked Rice: I typically go for Jasmine or Basmati for their aromatic qualities, but any type of rice will suffice. Quinoa or couscous can be used as gluten-free alternatives.
- Sesame Seeds: These are mainly for garnish, adding a bit of texture and a subtle nutty flavor. They can be omitted, or you could use chopped nuts like almonds for crunch.
Alright, let’s dive into making these Teriyaki Salmon Bites. Trust me, it’s way easier than it sounds.
First things first, chop your salmon into bite-sized pieces. rab a bowl and mix together the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss in your salmon pieces and give them a good mix until they’re all nicely coated. Let them marinate for about 20 minutes.
Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Now, place the salmon pieces in the air fryer basket. Remember not to overcrowd them – they need some personal space to get that perfect crispy edge. Air fry them for about 7-10 minutes. Halfway through, give them a gentle flip. You’re looking for a lovely golden color and a slightly crispy texture.
While the salmon does its thing, let’s whip up a quick salad. Dice up those avocados and slice the cucumber into half-moons. Toss them into a bowl with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit of salt and pepper. Give it a gentle toss and you’re done.
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
Grab your plates and start with a bed of cooked rice. Pile on those beautiful salmon bites and add a scoop of your avocado cucumber salad. Drizzle or dollop the sriracha mayo over the top. And for the grand finale, sprinkle some sesame seeds for that extra bit of crunch and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the Teriyaki Salmon Bites less salty?
Yes, you certainly can. To reduce the saltiness, opt for a low-sodium teriyaki sauce. Additionally, you can cut back on the added salt in both the marinade and the avocado cucumber salad. Remember, you can always add more salt to taste after cooking, but you can’t take it away once it’s in there!
Is there a substitute for sesame oil in this recipe?
If you don’t have sesame oil or prefer not to use it, a good substitute is a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. Keep in mind, though, that sesame oil adds a distinct flavor, so the taste will be slightly different without it.
What are some alternatives to salmon that I can use in this recipe?
This recipe is quite versatile. If salmon isn’t your thing or you’re looking for a different option, try using chicken breast cut into cubes, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I prepare the Teriyaki Salmon Bites in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the salmon and prepare the sriracha mayo and avocado cucumber salad ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. I’d recommend cooking the salmon fresh for the best texture and flavor, though.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? How can I cook the Teriyaki Salmon Bites?
No air fryer, no problem! You can easily bake the salmon bites in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the marinated salmon pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and starts to get a bit of a golden color. You can also broil them for the last 2-3 minutes to get a more caramelized exterior.
Expert Tips
- Choose the Right Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible for its firmer texture and richer flavor. Make sure the salmon is fresh or properly thawed if frozen.
- Marinating Time Matters: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 20 minutes. This helps the fish absorb the teriyaki flavors deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Use an Air Fryer for Best Results: Cooking the salmon bites in an air fryer not only makes them healthier but also ensures a perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
- Balance Your Flavors: If the teriyaki sauce is too sweet for you, add a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the sweetness with some savory and tangy notes.
Storage
To store leftover Teriyaki salmon bites, let them cool to room temperature first. Place the salmon bites in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay good for up to 3 days. As for the avocado cucumber salad, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado may turn brown and lose its appealing texture.
I don’t recommend freezing because salmon tends to become overly soft and lose its texture when thawed and the salad won’t hold up in the freezer.
Discover More Delicious Salmon Recipes
- Air Fryer Salmon Bites
- Cilantro Lime Salmon
- Smoked Salmon Blinis
- Firecracker Salmon
- Salmon Alfredo
- Bruschetta Salmon
- One Pot Salmon And Rice
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Teriyaki Salmon Bites
Video
Ingredients
For Salmon Bites
- 1½ pounds salmon fillet (skin removed)
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- salt and pepper (to taste)
For Avocado Cucumber Salad
- 2 ripe avocados (diced)
- 1 large cucumber (sliced in half moons)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- salt and pepper (to taste)
For Sriracha Mayo
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (or lime juice)
- salt (to taste)
To Serve
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably Jasmine or Basmati)
- sesame seeds (for garnish)
Before You Begin! If you make this, please leave a review and rating letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business thrive & continue providing free recipes.
Instructions
- Cut the salmon into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, olive or sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add salmon cubes into the bowl and gently mix until they're fully coated. Marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't touching. You may need to cook them in batches. Cook for 7-10 minutes, turning them halfway, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a slightly crispy exterior.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced avocados, sliced cucumber, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until everything is well-mixed. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon or lime juice, and salt. Mix well.
- Serve cooked rice on each plate, followed by a portion of the air-fried salmon bites. Add a scoop of avocado cucumber salad beside the salmon. Drizzle the sriracha mayo over the salmon or serve on the side. Garnish with black sesame seeds.
Equipment
Notes
- Salmon Selection: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen salmon, ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating.
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 20 minutes. If you have time, extending it to 30 minutes can deepen the flavors even more.
- Cooking Options: If you don’t have an air fryer, the salmon bites can be baked in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Salad Freshness: Prepare the avocado cucumber salad just before serving to maintain its crispness and prevent the avocado from browning.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch, garnish with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the texture may change upon reheating.
Nutrition Information
Notice: Nutrition is auto-calculated for your convenience. Where relevant, we recommend using your own nutrition calculations.
