If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive appetizer or a quick, flavorful meal, these Pesto Salmon Bites are exactly what you need! Juicy, tender salmon coated in vibrant pesto, then baked or air-fried to perfection—every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a light and delicious dish, this recipe is a total winner.
Why You’ll Love Pesto Salmon Bites
Versatile Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or even tossed into a salad or pasta.
Budget-Friendly Uses simple ingredients but delivers restaurant-quality flavor.
Quick and Easy Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep!
Customizable Swap the pesto for different flavors, like a spicy marinade or a lemon-garlic butter.
Crowd-Pleasing Even those who don’t usually love salmon will be hooked on these flavorful bites!
Ingredients
Ingredients in Pesto Salmon Bites
Here’s what makes these salmon bites so irresistible:
Salmon Fillets The star of the dish! Use fresh or frozen (thawed) salmon for the best texture and flavor.
Pesto The game-changer! A blend of basil, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil adds bold, herby goodness to every bite.
Olive Oil Helps the salmon stay moist and perfectly caramelized.
Lemon Juice A bright, zesty touch that balances the richness of the salmon and pesto.
Salt & Pepper Just a little seasoning enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Parmesan (Optional) A sprinkle of parmesan adds a cheesy, crispy finish.
Instructions
Prep the Salmon
Cut the salmon into bite-sized cubes, making sure they’re evenly sized for even cooking.
Coat with Pesto
In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated.
Choose Your Cooking Method
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Oven: Preheat to 200°C (400°F). Place the salmon bites on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Finish and Serve
If using parmesan, sprinkle it over the salmon in the last 2 minutes of cooking for a crispy, cheesy finish.
Enjoy!
Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra pesto, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
How to Serve Pesto Salmon Bites
These salmon bites are incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of extra pesto or a lemony yogurt dip.
- Toss into a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Add to pasta or rice bowls for a quick and easy meal.
- Serve in tacos with a drizzle of garlic aioli and fresh avocado.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a balanced, healthy plate.
Additional Tips
- Use skinless salmon for easy eating, but if using skin-on, cook skin-side down first for extra crispiness.
- Don’t overcook! Salmon dries out quickly, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Make it dairy-free by skipping the parmesan or using a dairy-free pesto.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great, but homemade pesto will take the flavor up a notch.
2. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
3. How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer or baking sheet?
Lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper on a baking sheet.
4. What kind of salmon is best for this recipe?
Wild-caught salmon has great flavor, but farm-raised works just as well. Go for fresh fillets if possible.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can marinate the salmon in pesto ahead of time, but cook it fresh for the best texture.
6. How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).
7. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! This recipe works well with cod, halibut, or even shrimp.
8. What can I use instead of pesto?
Try a lemon-garlic marinade, teriyaki sauce, or a spicy honey glaze for a different twist.
9. Can I make this spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
10. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently in a pan or air fryer to avoid drying out the salmon.
Conclusion
These Pesto Salmon Bites are a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re making a healthy meal, an easy appetizer, or a fun twist on taco night, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and get ready to fall in love with these bite-sized flavor bombs!
Print
Pesto Salmon Bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
These bite-sized salmon pieces are coated in a rich, herby pesto and baked to perfection. A quick and healthy appetizer or main dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
– 400g salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil, for garnish
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add the salmon bites to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
4. Arrange the salmon pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
– For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
– Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
– Can be made in an air fryer at 180°C (360°F) for 6–8 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg