Description
Deliciously seasoned Cajun Baked Salmon Bites that are quick to prepare and perfect for a flavorful, healthy meal. These bite-sized salmon cubes are coated with a smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning and baked to perfection using a clever foil technique to keep them tender with a slight crisp on the edges. Ideal for serving as a snack, appetizer, or part of a rice bowl.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets, skinless, cut into 2.5cm (1″) cubes (~600-700g / 1.2-1.4lb total)
- 2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet; smoked paprika also works well)
- 3/4 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt (halve if using table salt; increase by 50% if using flakes)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder (do not substitute with fresh garlic to avoid burning)
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for slight spiciness)
- 2 1/2 tsp tightly packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 240°C (460°F) or 220°C fan-forced. This high temperature ensures crisp edges while keeping the salmon tender.
- Prepare the crinkled foil tray: Lightly scrunch up a sheet of aluminum foil and then gently unfold it so the wrinkles remain. These small pointy ridges help lift the salmon slightly off the tray, preventing sticking and sogginess. Place the foil on a baking tray and fold the edges to secure. Cover the tray with another sheet of foil prepared the same way.
- Mix the Cajun seasoning: In a bowl, combine paprika, cooking salt, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and brown sugar. Stir well to create an even spice mix.
- Coat the salmon: Add the salmon cubes to the bowl with the seasoning. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat each piece. Spread the salmon pieces spaced out on the prepared foil to allow good browning during baking.
- Bake the salmon: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12 minutes without turning the salmon. The baking time is enough to cook the cubes through while developing a light browning on the exterior.
- Remove and serve: Carefully take the salmon off the foil to stop the cooking process and prevent dryness. Serve immediately, either as bite-sized snacks or add them to rice bowls with fresh vegetables and flavorful sauces like peri-naise or mayo mixed with sriracha for a complete meal.
Notes
- The crinkled foil technique is inspired by a Japanese method that prevents sticking and soggy undersides by lifting the fish slightly during baking.
- Do not substitute garlic powder with fresh garlic to avoid burning during baking.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity based on your spice preference.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with rice bowls loaded with fresh veggies and sauces like peri-naise or homemade sriracha mayo.
- For best flavor, toss salmon cubes with seasoning right before baking and avoid overcrowding on the tray.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Cajun
