Craving a fresh, flavorful dinner that’s quick and satisfying? These Crispy Air-Fried Salmon Bites check every box. They’re high in protein, full of texture, and bold in flavor. Even better? You can flex the recipe based on whatever’s in your fridge.
The star of this bowl is the salmon. Cubed and tossed in a sticky-sweet-spicy glaze – made with gochujang, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and sesame oil – it crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. While it cooks, air-fry seasoned chickpeas and cauliflower bites until golden and crunchy.
To build your bowl, layer fresh greens like arugula or spinach. Add the crispy salmon, chickpeas, and roasted cauliflower on top. Finish with a drizzle of your favorite dressing (or my zingy Uber Lemony Dressing), a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for good measure. Or just snack on these on their own if they make it from the fryer to your plate!
These crispy air-fried salmon bites are endlessly customizable. Swap in different greens. Add grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice. Toss in avocado or double the chickpeas for easy meal prep. However you build it, this bowl is a celebration of flexible, feel-good eating—with a crispy, spicy twist.
Crispy Air Fried Salmon Bites
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites
- 1 lb fresh salmon, cubed
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
For the Chickpeas
- 1 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and dried
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp taco & fajita seasoning
- ½ tsp onion salt (or onion powder)
For the Cauliflower
- 1 small head cauliflower chopped into florets
- 1-2 tsp olive oil
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
For the Bowl Base + Toppings
- Fresh greens: arugula, spinach, romaine, or mixed lettuce
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedge (for squeezing over the top)
Dressing options
- Sesame-lime vinaigrette
- Yogurt-based sauce
- Uber Lemony Dressing (My zingy favorite!) Recipe here
Instructions
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Prep and Air Fry the Chickpeas:
Drain and pat dry 1 can of chickpeas (or use cooked ones).
Place chickpeas in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes until lightly crispy.
Remove and season with salt & pepper, taco & fajita seasoning & nion salt (or powder).
Toss to coat, then return to the air fryer for another 3–5 minutes until golden and extra crunchy.
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Make the Salmon Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the ingredients and set aside.
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Marinate and Cook the Salmon:
Cube fresh salmon into bite-sized pieces.
Toss in the marinade until well-coated.
Place salmon cubes in the air fryer (use parchment or a liner if needed).
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
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Prep and Air Fry the Cauliflower:
Chop 1 small head of cauliflower into florets.
Toss with a drizzle of oil and sprinkle with a red seasoning blend - think paprika, chili powder, or taco seasoning.
Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until tender and browned at the edges.
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Build Your Bowl:
Start with a base of fresh greens (like arugula, spinach, or mixed lettuce).
Add spoonfuls of the roasted cauliflower.
Top with the crispy salmon bites and chickpeas.
Finish with a drizzle of your favorite dressing (a sesame-lime vinaigrette or yogurt-based sauce works great), a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like a little extra flair. Or try my Uber Lemony Dressing for a zingy surprise!
This crispy salmon and cauliflower quinoa bowl is bold, balanced, and beautiful — perfect for a healthy lunch or easy weeknight dinner.
