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Buffalo Salmon Bites - Spicy, Crispy, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Salmon fillets (skinless, about 1.5 pounds), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Cornstarch (or arrowroot for grain-free)
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • Olive oil or avocado oil (for searing or air frying)
  • Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Unsalted butter (to enrich the sauce)
  • Lemon (zest and wedges for serving)
  • Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
  • Celery and carrot sticks (optional sides)

Method
 

  1. Prep the salmon. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch cubes. Drying helps the coating stick and the edges crisp.
  2. Season and coat. In a bowl, toss salmon with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons cornstarch over the cubes and toss gently until evenly coated.
  3. Make the buffalo butter. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Stir in 1/3 to 1/2 cup buffalo sauce, depending on heat preference. Keep warm on the lowest setting.
  4. Choose your cooking method. Pan-sear: Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon in a single layer without crowding. Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side until crisp and just cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes total. Work in batches if needed.
  5. Air fry: Preheat to 400°F (205°C). Lightly oil the basket. Arrange salmon in a single layer. Air fry for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking once, until edges are browned and centers are just opaque.
  6. Oven-bake: Heat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place salmon on a lightly oiled, foil-lined sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, broiling for the last 1 to 2 minutes to crisp the tops.
  7. Sauce and toss. Transfer hot salmon to a large bowl. Pour the warm buffalo butter over the bites and toss gently to coat. Add lemon zest, if using, for a bright lift.
  8. Serve. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery, carrots, and lemon wedges. Enjoy immediately for the best texture.