Air Fryer Salmon

Salmon in the air fryer is a game-changer for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a quick yet elegant meal. The air fryer works its magic by creating a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender and moist. It’s truly a hands-off cooking method that yields restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

The beauty of air frying salmon is that you can customize it to your preference with endless seasoning options. A simple yet delicious combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs can elevate the natural flavors of the salmon. Or go bold with a mix of smoked paprika, cumin, and a touch of brown sugar for a sweet and smoky twist. The possibilities are as vast as your spice collection!

Don’t forget about the versatility of cooking salmon in the air fryer. Whether you prefer individual fillets, a whole side of salmon, or even salmon skewers, the air fryer can handle it all. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that each piece is cooked to perfection. Plus, the air fryer’s rapid air technology means you’ll have dinner on the table in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven.

One of the best parts of cooking salmon in the air fryer is the easy cleanup. No more scrubbing baking sheets or dealing with oil splatters on the stovetop. Simply remove the basket or tray from the air fryer and give it a quick wash, and you’re done! It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy a gourmet meal without the extra kitchen cleanup.

So, whether you’re a seafood lover looking for a new way to enjoy salmon or a busy home cook in need of a quick and delicious dinner option, give air fryer salmon a try. With its simplicity, versatility, and mouthwatering results, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Key Ingredients in Air Fryer Salmon

When it comes to creating a flavorful and perfectly cooked salmon in the air fryer, having the right ingredients is essential. Let’s take a closer look at the key components that make this dish truly delicious:

• Salmon Fillets: The star of the show, salmon fillets are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and have a delicate flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings.
• Olive Oil: Used to coat the salmon before air frying, olive oil helps create a crispy exterior while locking in moisture to keep the salmon tender and succulent.
• Garlic Powder: Adding depth and a hint of savory flavor, garlic powder complements the natural taste of the salmon without overpowering it.
• Paprika: Known for its slightly sweet and smokey flavor, paprika adds a vibrant color and a subtle kick to the salmon, enhancing its overall taste profile.
• Salt: A crucial ingredient for enhancing all the flavors in the dish, salt helps balance the sweetness of the salmon and brings out its natural taste.
• Black Pepper: Providing a gentle heat and earthy undertones, black pepper adds a warm spiciness that cuts through the richness of the salmon.
• Lemon Juice: Bright and tangy, lemon juice brings a refreshing acidity to the dish, elevating the flavors of the salmon and adding a touch of zing.
• Fresh Parsley: A fragrant herb that adds a pop of freshness and color, fresh parsley is the perfect garnish to finish off your air fryer salmon with a burst of herbal flavor.

By combining these key ingredients, you’ll create a delectable and well-balanced dish that is sure to impress your taste buds and those of your dinner guests.

How to Make Air Fryer Salmon

By following these simple steps, you’ll create a delectable and flavorful air fryer salmon that is sure to impress. Enjoy the tender and moist salmon with a crispy exterior, all achieved in the convenience of your own kitchen.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Salmon

Now that your air fryer salmon is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, it’s time to think about how to truly elevate your meal with some delectable sides and accompaniments. Here are three serving suggestions that will take your air fryer salmon to the next level:

1. Hearty Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad: For a satisfying and nutritious option, pair your air fryer salmon with a hearty quinoa and roasted vegetable salad. Start by cooking quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. Then, roast a combination of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables together and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh and tangy kick. Serve a generous portion of the salad alongside your air fryer salmon for a complete and wholesome meal.
2. Creamy Dill Sauce and Buttered Asparagus: If you’re looking for a more indulgent pairing, try serving your air fryer salmon with a creamy dill sauce and some buttered asparagus. To make the dill sauce, simply mix Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt together. Steam or sauté the asparagus spears and finish them off with a pat of butter for a rich and indulgent touch. The tangy and herb-infused sauce complements the salmon’s flavors, while the tender and buttery asparagus balances the richness of the dish. It’s a combination that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
3. Citrus-Infused Couscous and Mango Salsa: For a burst of refreshing and exotic flavors, serve your air fryer salmon with citrus-infused couscous and a vibrant mango salsa. Cook your favorite type of couscous according to package instructions, but replace part of the water with freshly squeezed orange juice to infuse it with bright citrusy notes. For the mango salsa, combine diced ripe mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The citrus-infused couscous provides a fragrant and zesty base, while the sweet and tangy mango salsa adds a tropical twist to the meal. The combination is a true celebration of flavors and will transport you to a sunny paradise.

With these three serving suggestions, your air fryer salmon will be transformed into a complete and memorable meal that tickles your taste buds and satisfies your hunger. No matter which option you choose, each one is sure to bring a unique and delicious element to your dinner plate. Experiment with different accompaniments and find your perfect combination, and don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with friends and loved ones. Enjoy your air fryer salmon feast and savor every delightful bite!

How to Store Air Fryer Salmon

Once you’ve savored every delicious bite of your air fryer salmon feast, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Luckily, there are a few simple ways to store your cooked salmon to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful for future enjoyment.

One effective method is to store the leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before storing, allow the salmon to cool to room temperature. Then, place the fillets in a container, making sure they are not stacked on top of each other to maintain their crispy exterior. For added moisture retention, you can drizzle a little extra olive oil over the fillets before sealing the container. Stored this way, your air fryer salmon can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you’re looking to prolong the shelf life of your salmon even further, consider freezing it. To freeze air fryer salmon, wrap each fillet individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped fillets in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen air fryer salmon can keep for up to 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored air fryer salmon, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Whether you opt to reheat your salmon in the air fryer for a few minutes or gently warming it in the oven, you’ll find that the flavors remain intact, offering a convenient and delicious meal with minimal effort.

By following these simple storage tips, you can enjoy your air fryer salmon beyond the initial cooking and continue to relish its irresistible flavors whenever you desire a quick and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of this article on air fryer salmon. I hope you found the information and recipes helpful and inspiring for your next seafood adventure. Now that you have all the knowledge and steps in hand, it’s time to get cooking and create your own delicious and healthy air fryer salmon dish!

Don’t forget that you can always print this article and keep it handy in your kitchen for future use. Having a hard copy is a great way to have quick and easy access to the recipe whenever you’re in the mood for some tasty air fryer salmon.

If you have any questions or need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help and guide you through the process. And of course, I would love to hear about your experiences with the recipe. Did you try the lemon, garlic, and herbs seasoning, or did you go for the sweet and smoky twist? How did it turn out? Share your comments, questions, and feedback, and let’s chat about all things air fryer salmon!

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, season the salmon to perfection, and let the air fryer work its magic. In no time, you’ll be savoring a delicious, tender, and crispy salmon that will have you coming back for more. Enjoy your air fryer salmon feast and happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Air Fryer Salmon

Author: Daniel Carter Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 2 mins Total Time 17 mins

Calories: 350

Description

Perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, Air Fryer Salmon offers a smoky, savory flavor with a subtle hint of citrus. It’s a quick, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor and so easy to prepare—your new go-to weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 salmon fillets

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. While the air fryer is preheating, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a clean plate or cutting board.
4. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated on both sides.
5. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garlic powder over the top of each fillet, making sure to cover them evenly.
6. Add 1 teaspoon of paprika to the fillets, spreading it evenly across the surface.
7. Season the fillets with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, distributing it evenly across both fillets.
8. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper over the fillets, ensuring each one is well-seasoned.
9. Squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice over the fillets, making sure to coat the top of each one.
10. Chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it evenly over the fillets, adding a burst of color and flavor.
11. Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the salmon fillets into the basket, skin-side down if applicable, without overcrowding.
12. Set the air fryer to cook for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
13. After the cooking time has passed, check the salmon for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
14. If the salmon is cooked through, carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula.
15. Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
16. Serve the salmon immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy.

Note

• Patting the salmon dry helps achieve a crispier texture when cooked in the air fryer.
• For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning.
• If using skin-on salmon, placing it skin-side down ensures the skin gets crispy.
• Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets for optimal doneness.
• Let the salmon rest before serving to maintain its juiciness and prevent dryness.

Keywords: air fryer salmon recipe, easy air fryer salmon, healthy air fryer salmon, air fryer salmon fillets, crispy air fryer salmon