If you’re looking for a simple yet insanely flavorful dish, these Pesto Salmon Bites are about to become your new obsession. Tender, flaky salmon coated in rich, herby pesto and roasted to perfection—these little bites are bursting with flavor in every bite! They’re perfect as an appetizer, a quick protein-packed snack, or even tossed into a salad or pasta for a full meal. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making them on repeat!
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Why You’ll Love Pesto Salmon Bites
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute meal.
Packed with Flavor: The combo of fresh pesto and salmon is pure magic.
Healthy & Nutritious: Loaded with protein, omega-3s, and healthy fats.
Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, toss in a salad, or add to pasta.
Minimal Ingredients: Just a handful of fresh ingredients for a gourmet-style dish.
Ingredients in Pesto Salmon Bites
Salmon Fillets: The star of the dish! Use fresh, skinless salmon for the best results.
Pesto: A rich, garlicky basil pesto adds vibrant flavor to every bite.
Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the edges while keeping the salmon juicy.
Garlic Powder: Adds an extra boost of savory goodness.
Parmesan Cheese: A little sprinkle enhances the umami flavors.
Lemon Zest: Brightens up the dish with a pop of citrus.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even roasting.
Cut the Salmon: Slice the salmon into bite-sized cubes.
Season the Salmon: Toss the salmon bites with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Pesto: Coat each salmon piece generously with pesto.
Bake to Perfection: Arrange on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is tender and flaky.
Finish with Parmesan & Lemon: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a touch of lemon zest.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm with extra pesto or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
How to Serve Pesto Salmon Bites
- As an Appetizer: Serve on skewers with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- With a Side Salad: Toss into a fresh arugula or spinach salad.
- In a Wrap or Bowl: Add to a grain bowl or wrap for a wholesome meal.
- With Pasta: Mix with your favorite pasta and extra pesto for a quick dinner.
- Over Rice: Serve with jasmine or cauliflower rice for a balanced meal.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Pesto: Homemade pesto brings the best flavor, but store-bought works too!
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to stay tender.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
A1: Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q2: Can I grill these instead of baking?
A2: Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A4: Yes! Prep the salmon and marinate in pesto, then bake when ready.
Q5: Can I use a different fish?
A5: Sure! This recipe also works well with cod or halibut.
Q6: What’s the best way to reheat?
A6: Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
Q7: Can I make this keto-friendly?
A7: It already is! Just ensure your pesto is low-carb.
Q8: Can I add veggies to the sheet pan?
A8: Definitely! Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus work great.
Q9: What type of pesto is best?
A9: Basil pesto is classic, but sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto would also be delicious.
Q10: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A10: Yes! Just choose one with high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Pesto Salmon Bites are the definition of easy and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a healthy snack, or a show-stopping appetizer, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try and let me know how you love to serve them!
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Pesto Salmon Bites
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
These Pesto Salmon Bites are crispy, juicy, and coated in a vibrant basil pesto sauce. Made in the air fryer in under 10 minutes, this easy salmon recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, appetizer, or protein-packed snack!
Ingredients
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1 1/2 lbs salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized cubes
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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3 tbsp basil pesto
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Marinate the Salmon:
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In a bowl, toss salmon cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
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Let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Air Fry the Salmon:
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Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Arrange salmon pieces in a single layer in the basket.
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Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
3. Toss in Pesto & Serve:
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In a separate bowl, whisk together pesto and lemon juice.
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Add cooked salmon and toss to coat.
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Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
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Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan.
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Oven Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
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Protein Boost: Serve over quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 65mg