Air Fryer Salmon : This foolproof recipe will bring all the flavor and texture with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, this dish is quick, easy, and full of delicious flavor.
Why Air Fryer Salmon?
Air fryers are a game-changer in the kitchen, offering a healthier, faster cooking method with very little oil. Using an air fryer for salmon has several benefits:
- Quick Cooking: Salmon fillets cook in just 8-10 minutes.
- Even Crispiness: The air fryer circulates heat to evenly cook and crisp the salmon, similar to a convection oven.
- Less Oil: You only need a light spray of oil, making it a healthier option.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Salmon
- Use fresh or thawed fillets: Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking. If using frozen salmon, thaw it completely before seasoning and air frying.
- Pat dry for crispier skin: Removing excess moisture is key to getting that perfect sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each fillet room so the air can circulate properly.
- Experiment with flavors: Salmon is incredibly versatile. From honey soy to spicy Cajun, don’t be afraid to try different marinades and seasonings!
Delicious Variations to Try
Air fryer salmon is a blank canvas. Here are a few flavor variations to elevate your meal:
- Honey Garlic Salmon: Mix honey, minced garlic, and a touch of soy sauce. Brush it over the salmon before air frying for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Lemon Herb Salmon: Season with lemon zest, parsley, and thyme for a refreshing, zesty profile.
- Teriyaki Salmon: Brush with teriyaki sauce for a rich, umami flavor. Perfect for serving with rice and steamed veggies.
- Blackened Cajun Salmon: Rub with Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist. Great for taco night or with a side of avocado salad!
How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon
- With Sides: Pair with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain like quinoa, rice, or couscous for a well-rounded meal.
- In a Salad: Add flaked air fryer salmon on top of a fresh Caesar, Greek, or spinach salad.
- With Tacos: Use it as a filling for fish tacos with slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
- On Pasta: Serve over pasta tossed in a light lemon or garlic sauce.
Storing & Reheating Air Fryer Salmon
Leftover salmon is great for meal prep, and it stores well for a few days.
Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: The best way to reheat salmon is in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F. You can also use a skillet on the stove for a couple of minutes, but avoid microwaving as it can dry out the fish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Salmon in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but for best results, it’s recommended to thaw it first. If cooking from frozen, add an extra 5-7 minutes, and use a thermometer to check for doneness.
How Do I Know When the Salmon is Done?
Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. For a more tender center, you may remove it at 135°F and let it rest.
How Much Oil Should I Use?
Just a light spray or brush of oil is enough for air fryer salmon. Too much oil can make the fish soggy.
What Type of Salmon is Best?
Atlantic or King salmon work well for this recipe due to their higher fat content, making the fish juicy and tender. Sockeye also works but is leaner, so it may cook faster.
Can I Use Skinless Salmon?
Absolutely! Skinless salmon cooks just as well in the air fryer, though it may be slightly more delicate when transferring.
Air Fryer Salmon
Air Fryer Salmon : This foolproof recipe will bring all the flavor and texture with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, this dish is quick, easy, and full of delicious flavor.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets 2, about 6 oz each
Seasonings:
- Black pepper
- Pinch of kosher salt
Glaze:
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey for a natural sweetness)
- ½ tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of ground ginger (optional for a warm hint)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- For easy cleanup, line your air fryer basket with foil, and preheat to 400°F (usually about 3 minutes).
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar (or honey), Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger (if using). Spoon the glaze over the top of each fillet.
- Place the fillets in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry for 6-11 minutes, depending on the thickness. Check for doneness—salmon should register 145°F (or slightly under for carryover cooking).
- Transfer to a plate, season with a bit more salt and pepper if desired, and enjoy your perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon hot from the air fryer!
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 412Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 107mgSodium 475mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 1gSugar 5gProtein 38g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer salmon is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, delicious meal with minimal fuss. The air fryer makes it easy to get a perfect crust with a juicy, flaky center every time. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking to impress guests with a flavorful main dish, this air fryer salmon recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
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