This deep fried salmon bites are exactly what you need if you’re looking for a bold and delicious appetizer or snack.
These golden salmon nuggets are crispy on the outside and buttery-tender on the inside, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Start with either skin-on or skinless salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized cubes, and season them well with pantry staple ingredients, then finishes off with a delicious lemon-oil dressing.
These salmon bites are crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. To take them to the next level, dress them with a simple yet zesty olive oil and lemon juice dipping sauce, infused with red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt for a tangy, slightly spicy finish.
A quick dredge in a light cornmeal mix, followed by hot oil, creates that irresistible crunch. Serve them with the lemon-oil sauce to further satisfy each bite. You’ll want to make it again and again.
How long to air fry salmon pieces?
If you plan to Air fry your salmon bites instead of deep frying them, we recommend that you air fry them at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How long to fry salmon bites?
Fry in hot oil (350–375°F) for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Best oil for frying?
Use oils with a high smoke point like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil.
How to keep them moist when frying?
Don’t overcook it, and make sure to use a quick, hot fry to seal in moisture. Avoid pressing or flipping too much during frying.
How to fry these salmon nuggets
Our step-by-step frying method will help you make this recipe with ease. Tag us on Instagram or Facebook so I can see your beautiful dish.
After trying these salmon bites, make these fried sourdough breadsticks to go along with them.
We would also appreciate it if you could give it a star rating below!
Deep Fried Salmon Bites
Equipment
Ingredients
To season the salmon
- 7 oz Salmon; skin-on or skinless cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tsp. Garlic Powder
- 2 tsp. Onion Powder
- 2 tsp. Salt or to tase; we uses kosher salt
- ½ cup Cornmeal
- 1 Tbsp. Paprika
- 1 Tbsp. Oregano Flakes
For the sauce
- ¼ cup Olive Oil
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 1 Tbsp. Parsley Flakes
- 1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes
- ½ tsp. Kosher Salt
To Fry
- 4 Cups Vegetable Oil
Instructions
- Prep the Salmon:Rinse and pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Cut it into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on or removing it based on your preference.Season the Fish:In a mixing bowl, add all of the ingredients.
- Coat the Salmon:Add the salmon, then dredge each salmon piece in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well. Set the coated pieces aside on a plate.Heat the Oil:In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 4 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350–375°F.Fry the Salmon Bites:Carefully add a few pieces of salmon at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.Make the Sauce:In a small skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, lemon juice, parsley flakes, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Bring to a quick boil then remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.Serve:Drizzle the salmon with the lemon olive oil sauce, or serve the sauce on the side as a dip.
These were so crispy and moist.
thank you, Jen!