These keto salmon bites give you perfectly seasoned protein in just 10 minutes with three different flavor options – Cajun, Lemon Pepper, or Garlic & Herb. Great for quick dinners or meal prep bowls and just 3 ingredients per variation. Air fry or cook on the stove!
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You know those nights when you open the fridge, stare at the salmon you bought with good intentions, and think “I should cook this… but I just don’t know what do with it?”
These salmon bites are the answer. Cut the salmon into cubes, toss with butter and seasoning, cook for 6 minutes, done.
No complicated sauces, no fancy techniques, no wondering if the center is cooked through because each piece is small enough to cook perfectly every time.
I make these low carb salmon bites on repeat, because they’re genuinely just really good and really easy to customize. You can switch up the seasoning based on what you’re craving – spicy Cajun, bright lemon pepper, or savory garlic herb. Same easy method, three totally different vibes so no one is getting sick of the same old thing.
Throw them over a bag of frozen steamable cauliflower rice with some Instant Pot broccoli and you’ve got a legitimate dinner that takes minutes.
♥ What We Love About This Recipe:
- It’s ridiculously fast. Ten minutes from raw salmon to dinner on the table. The bite-sized pieces cook quickly.
- Three ingredients, three flavor options. Salmon, butter, and your choice of seasoning – Cajun for spice, lemon pepper for brightness, or garlic herb for savory comfort. Zero stress, maximum variety.
- Meal prep magic. Make a batch (or three!) on Sunday and you’ve got protein ready to throw into bowls all week. They reheat great and taste just as good on day four.
Ingredient, Swaps, & Tips:
Want to switch things up? Here’s what works:
3 Seasoning Options: The three options I’m giving you are my go-tos (and I love Cajun best), but honestly this method works with any seasoning blend you love. Try Old Bay, Nature’s Seasons, or any of the Kinder’s seasonings.
Salt check: Many seasoning blends already have salt (like the Cajun seasoning I use), so taste the blend before you add extra. If your blend doesn’t have salt, definitely add a pinch or two.
Cooking methods: The air fryer is pretty hands off, but the stovetop works just as well. Use whichever is easier for you – both take about the same amount of time.
Salmon quality: Fresh or frozen works fine here. If using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cutting. You want the butter and seasoning to stick, not slide off.
Bowl building: These are perfect over cauliflower rice with roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers – whatever you’ve got). Add some avocado and you have a favorite of mine.
Portion sizes: One pound serves 4 people as a main protein, or makes enough for meal prep lunches for the week.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Step by Step Instructions:
Cube the salmon into 1-inch chunks. We prefer salmon with the skin removed, but you can leave it on if you prefer.
Add the salmon to a bowl and drizzle with melted butter and seasoning. Toss to coat.
Add to your air fryer and cook for about 6 minutes or toss on a skillet and do the same.
The salmon should be a bit crispy on the edges and flaky in the center.
Helpful Tip!
Storage & Freezing:
Fridge life: Keep cooked salmon bites in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or eat them cold in salads.
Meal prep win: Cook a big batch (or make all three flavors!) and portion into containers with your favorite veggies and cauliflower rice. Grab-and-go lunches for days.
Freezer situation: You can freeze these for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. The texture won’t be quite as perfect as fresh, but they’re still totally fine for meal prep situations.
Recipe FAQs:
Yes! Just make sure it’s completely thawed and patted very dry before cutting into cubes. Excess moisture will prevent the butter and seasoning from sticking properly.
The salmon should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork. Since the pieces are small, they cook quickly – usually 5-6 minutes. Don’t overcook or they’ll get dry.
Any variety works – Atlantic, sockeye, coho, or king salmon all turn out great.
Keto Salmon Bites
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon skin removed
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons seasoning blend Cajun, lemon pepper, or Garlic & Herb, see notes
Instructions
- Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes and place in a mixing bowl.
- Pour the melted butter over the salmon and stir gently to coat. Sprinkle on the seasoning blend and stir gently again to coat the salon in the seasoning.
- Air Fryer Method: Place the salmon in a single layer in a greased air fryer basket and air fry at 400 degrees for 6 minutes or until salmon is cooked through, gently shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- Stove Top Method: Heat a large skillet with a tablespoon of cooking oil and add the salmon to the skillet. Let sear on one side before stirring. Cook for about 5-6 minutes total, stirring occasionally, until salmon is seared on the outside and cooked through.
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