Air Fryer Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Salmon is a fast, healthy, and flavorful way to cook salmon, resulting in a perfectly crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The air fryer circulates hot air around the fish, cooking it evenly in a fraction of the time it takes in a traditional oven. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, the air fryer ensures you get restaurant-quality salmon every time.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

3. Rub each salmon fillet with olive oil, ensuring the fish is evenly coated.

4. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the fillets.

5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.

6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork.

7. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 8-10 minutes

• Total time: 13-15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary to the seasoning mix or top the cooked salmon with a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs.

• Asian Flavor: Replace garlic powder and paprika with soy sauce, ginger, and a dash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.

• Maple Glazed: Brush the salmon fillets with a thin layer of maple syrup during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a sweet glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover air fryer salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the salmon in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, though the air fryer will help maintain the fish’s crisp texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just increase the cooking time by 3-5 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

2. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.

3. Can I air fry salmon with the skin on?

Yes, you can air fry salmon with the skin on. The skin will get crispy and delicious, adding extra texture to the dish.

4. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use other fish like trout or cod, though cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.

5. Do I need to flip the salmon while air frying?

No, there’s no need to flip the salmon during cooking. The air fryer circulates hot air around the fish, cooking it evenly without flipping.

6. How can I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To prevent sticking, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or rub a small amount of oil on the basket before adding the salmon.

7. Can I cook multiple salmon fillets at once?

Yes, but make sure not to overcrowd the basket. The air fryer works best when air can circulate freely around each piece of fish.

8. Can I add a glaze or sauce to the salmon during cooking?

Yes, you can brush a glaze or sauce onto the salmon during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly.

9. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this air fryer salmon is great for meal prep. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

10. How can I add more flavor to the salmon?

You can experiment with different seasonings such as lemon zest, smoked paprika, or even a drizzle of honey before serving for added flavor.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Salmon is a quick and healthy way to enjoy a delicious fish dinner with minimal effort. The air fryer ensures that the salmon comes out crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flaky on the inside. With a variety of seasoning options and easy adjustments to suit your taste, this recipe is a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.