Looking to make salmon that’s perfectly cooked–crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside? Well, your air fryer just became your best friend! This easy Air Fryer Salmon recipe is both a game-changer for weeknight dinners and a healthy, protein-packed meal that you can whip up in under 15 minutes.
Below, I’ll break down each step, from preparing the salmon to cooking it to perfection. Get ready, because once you try salmon in the air fryer, you’ll never go back!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon
When it comes to ingredients, simplicity is key here. You don’t need a ton of stuff, but each element brings its own burst of flavor.
Main Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) : Fresh or thawed fillets work best. Opt for skin-on fillets for extra crispiness.
- Pinch of kosher salt : Enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
- Pinch of black pepper : Adds a slight kick without overpowering the fish.
Marinade Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard : Adds sharpness and a touch of acidity.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey) : For a touch of sweetness to balance the mustard.
- ½ tablespoon low sodium soy sauce : This adds umami depth without making the dish too salty.
- ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil : Helps with browning and adds a smooth richness.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder : For that subtle aromatic flavor.
- Pinch of ground ginger (optional) : A hint of warmth for an Asian-inspired twist.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
You’ll also want to have these handy for a smooth, no-stress cooking process:
- Air Fryer : Obviously! Make sure it’s preheated for best results.
- Mixing Bowl : For blending the marinade.
- Tongs : Essential for carefully placing and removing the salmon.
- Aluminum Foil : Lining the air fryer basket helps make cleanup much easier.
- Measuring Spoons : Precision is key for that perfect flavor balance.
- Instant-read Thermometer : This ensures your salmon is cooked to perfection without guesswork.
That’s it! With these simple, pantry-staple ingredients and tools, you’re all set for an amazing air fryer salmon experience. Now, let’s get your salmon ready for the air fryer!
Preparing the Air Fryer Salmon: Get Ready for Juicy, Tender Fillets
Step 1: Pat the Salmon Dry
The first thing you’ll want to do is pat both sides of the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This might seem like a small step, but it’s crucial! Removing the excess moisture ensures your salmon gets that delicious, crispy exterior while staying juicy on the inside.
Step 2: Season with Salt and Pepper
Next, lightly season both sides of the salmon fillets with a pinch of kosher salt and a pinch of black pepper. Not only does this enhance the salmon’s natural flavor, but it also provides a nice base for the marinade we’re about to prepare.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Now, to ensure the salmon cooks evenly, it’s important to preheat your air fryer to 400°F . Depending on the model, this usually only takes about 3-5 minutes. If you haven’t tried preheating your air fryer before, it makes a big difference!
For easier cleanup, you can line your air fryer basket with aluminum foil . This helps catch any marinade that drips off and prevents the salmon from sticking to the basket, saving you from extra scrubbing later on.
Step 4: Prepare the Marinade
While your air fryer is preheating, it’s time to whip up the simple yet flavorful marinade. In a small bowl (or large liquid measuring cup), combine the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey if you prefer a more natural sweetness)
- ½ tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of ground ginger (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor)
Mix these together until well combined. The result is a tangy, slightly sweet, and savory marinade that perfectly complements the richness of the salmon.
Step 5: Coat the Salmon Fillets
Generously spoon the marinade over the salmon fillets, making sure to cover the top and sides thoroughly. This will not only flavor the fish but also help create a slight caramelization on the surface during cooking.
Now that your salmon is seasoned, marinated, and your air fryer is preheated, your fillets are all set to be air-fried!
Cooking the Salmon in the Air Fryer: Crispy, Juicy, and Flawless
Step 1: Arrange the Fillets in the Air Fryer Basket
Carefully slide out your preheated air fryer basket and lay it on a heatproof surface. Using tongs, place the marinated salmon fillets in the basket, ensuring they do not touch each other. Leaving a little space around each fillet allows for proper air circulation, which is key to getting that perfect texture.
Step 2: Air Fry the Salmon
Now, let’s get cooking! Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and cook the salmon for 6 to 11 minutes . The exact cook time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the specific air fryer model you are using.
- If your salmon fillets are about 1 inch thick , they should take around 8 to 9 minutes to cook.
- Use the shorter cooking time for thinner fillets and a slightly longer time for thicker cuts (but avoid overcooking to ensure they stay moist).
Step 3: Check for Doneness
You’ll know your salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). To check for doneness, use an instant-read thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the fillet.
- Pro Tip : I recommend removing the salmon from the air fryer when it’s around 140°F (60°C) and letting it rest for a couple of minutes. The residual heat will finish cooking the salmon and result in a perfectly tender, juicy fillet without overcooking.
Step 4: Handle with Care
Once the salmon is done, carefully use your tongs to transfer the fillets to a plate . The skin should be crisp, while the salmon itself remains flaky and moist. Avoid squeezing the fish too much with the tongs to prevent breaking the delicate fillets.
Now, your air-fried salmon is ready to serve!
Serving & Pairing Your Air Fryer Salmon: A Delicious, Healthy Meal
Step 1: Plate and Finish
Once you’ve transferred the salmon fillets to a serving plate, there’s no need for anything fancy— the salmon is already packed with flavor! However, if you want to take it up a notch, here are some final touches you can add:
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs : Parsley, dill, or cilantro add a burst of freshness.
- A squeeze of lemon : For bright acidity that complements the richness of the salmon.
- A drizzle of extra sauce : Feel free to brush on any leftover marinade or whip up a quick glaze with a blend of honey and soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 2: Pair Your Salmon
Now, let’s talk sides! Salmon pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are a few suggestions to round out your meal:
- Steamed or roasted veggies : Try green beans, broccoli, or asparagus for a nutritious, light pairing.
- Quinoa or brown rice : Healthy grains that soak up any leftover sauce!
- Mashed or roasted potatoes : A classic choice for a comfort food-style dinner.
- Salad : A simple spinach or arugula salad with a light vinaigrette provides a perfect contrast in texture and flavor.
Your air-fried salmon is now ready to enjoy! With its juicy texture and crispy outside, this dish is sure to be a hit, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a centerpiece for a dinner party.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover salmon (lucky you!), here’s how to store it and save it for later:
- Fridge : Place your cooled salmon fillets in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Salmon
Reheating salmon can sometimes lead to dryness, but if you use these methods, you’ll keep the texture closer to how it was originally:
- In the Air Fryer : Reheat at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes or until warm. This helps maintain the crispy skin.
- In the Microwave : Heat on low power (50%) in 30-second intervals. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent the salmon from drying out.
Conclusion
And that’s it! You now have a foolproof way to make perfectly cooked Air Fryer Salmon , with the right balance of crispy skin and tender, flaky fish. Whether you’re just starting out with the air fryer or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
From the easy marinade to friendly prep and cleaning, air frying salmon is a healthy and quick meal option that doesn’t skip out on flavor. Plus, with the versatile pairing suggestions, you can mix and match sides based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try—it’s simple, nutritious, and undeniably tasty. And if you find some new twists or sauces that work, feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Happy cooking!