These crispy, Golden Baked Salmon Bites with Velvety Avocado Drizzle are baked to perfection and paired with a creamy avocado drizzle that adds richness and freshness to every bite. They are light yet satisfying, making them a fantastic option for a healthy meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the Avocado Drizzle:
1 ripe avocado
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lime juice
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a medium bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the salmon cubes in the mixture until they are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the salmon and gently toss again to ensure each piece has a crispy coating.
Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and golden brown on the edges.
While the salmon is baking, prepare the avocado drizzle. In a blender or food processor, blend the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Once the salmon bites are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve warm, drizzled with the velvety avocado sauce.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for extra heat.
Citrusy Flavor: Swap lime juice for lemon juice in the avocado drizzle for a slightly different tangy taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or a splash of coconut milk in the avocado drizzle.
Air Fryer Version: Cook the salmon bites at 375°F (190°C) in an air fryer for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Leftover salmon bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The avocado drizzle should be stored separately in a sealed container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent browning.
Reheating: Reheat the salmon bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Freezing: While fresh is best, you can freeze the cooked salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in an oven or air fryer.
FAQs
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. The edges should be golden and slightly crispy.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
What can I serve with these salmon bites?
These go great with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, a fresh salad, or even inside a taco for a fun twist.
Can I make the avocado drizzle ahead of time?
Yes, but because avocado tends to brown quickly, I recommend making it just before serving. If preparing in advance, store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface.
Can I use a different fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.
Conclusion
These golden baked salmon bites with velvety avocado drizzle are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy seafood. They are crispy, flavorful, and paired with a creamy, zesty sauce that makes every bite irresistible. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or meal prep option, they are sure to be a hit. Enjoy.
Recipe:
Golden Baked Salmon Bites with Velvety Avocado Drizzle
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These golden baked salmon bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and paired with a velvety avocado drizzle for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. A healthy, easy-to-make dish, they’re great as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep option. Since they’re baked instead of fried, they’re a nutritious alternative to traditional seafood bites.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
1 lb salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the Avocado Drizzle:
1 ripe avocado
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lime juice
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the salmon cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the salmon and gently toss to ensure a crispy coating.
- Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- While baking, prepare the avocado drizzle. Blend together avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Once the salmon bites are done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with the creamy avocado drizzle.
Notes
For extra spice, add cayenne or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
For a citrus twist, swap lime juice with lemon juice.
Make it gluten-free by using GF panko or almond flour.
For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut milk or dairy-free yogurt.
Try an air fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
