Cajun Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Cajun salmon bites on a platter with a bowl of lemon garlic aioli.

Cajun Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 15

Total Time: 30

Servings:

Calories: 497kcal

Author: Nikole Berg

Crispy Cajun Salmon Bites with Lemon Garlic Aioli - Quick 30-minute recipe with bold spicy flavors! Perfect for salmon bowls, rice bowls, or as an easy dinner main dish.

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Ingredients

For the salmon bites

1 ½ lbs salmon fillet skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Louisiana rub or store bought Cajun seasoning
salt and black pepper to taste if the Cajun seasoning needs it

For the lemon garlic aioli

½ cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and place it in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle over my Louisiana rub recipe, or a Cajun seasoning. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon cubes in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes per side until crisp outside and just cooked inside.
In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Arrange salmon bites on a platter with the aioli for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Cut the salmon into even-sized cubes so they cook at the same rate.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. This ensures the edges get nicely browned.
Cajun seasoning varies in spice level; start with less if you prefer mild heat and adjust to taste.
Salmon cooks quickly—2 to 3 minutes per side is usually enough. Overcooking will make it dry, so aim for tender and slightly flaky.

Nutrition