Just like cooking air fryer chicken breasts, salmon seems to stay more tender on the inside when cooked in the air fryer. The machine automatically turns off when the cooking time is complete, so you won’t risk overcooking the fish if you get distracted. Cooking salmon in the air fryer is also an energy saver since you won’t have to wait for a larger oven to preheat. It’s perfect for warm summer months when you don’t want to heat your whole kitchen. This quick & easy recipe is a delicious way to get more omega-3 fatty acids into your routine. Serve it over a Strawberry Spinach Salad or with a side dish like Asian Coleslaw for a nourishing meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Salmon tastes amazing with simple seasonings, like fresh lemon juice and garlic. Brushing it with olive oil helps lock in its moisture, and then all you need is plenty of salt and pepper. If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can season salmon fillets with paprika and garlic powder for another savory option. Or, stir together two tablespoons each of Dijon mustard and maple syrup (or honey) to create a sweet and tangy glaze. Brush it over the top of the salmon before cooking, and be sure to season with plenty of salt and pepper.
How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer
For this recipe, you’ll need salmon filets that weigh roughly 6 ounces and are 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Arrange the salmon skin-side down on a plate so you can season the tops. In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. Spoon the mixture evenly over the salmon, rubbing it on the sides, as well. Season the fish generously with salt and pepper, then transfer the filets to the air fryer basket. Leave at least 1 inch of space between each piece for even cooking. Air fry at 400ºF for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the center of the fish reaches at least 125ºF with an instant-read thermometer. This temperature will give you a medium-cooked result, but the FDA recommends an internal temperature of 145ºF, which is well done in the center. Be sure to check the temperature at the thickest part of the salmon, since the edges will cook faster. The more often you cook salmon, the better you’ll know which temperature you prefer. The fish should easily flake with a fork and the flesh will look opaque when it’s done cooking. It’s easy to add one more minute of cooking in the air fryer, so start with the lower cooking time and add more as needed. Just like cooking meat, there is some carry-over cooking when you remove salmon from the heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, and the internal temperature may increase even more. Serve air fryer salmon over rice and cooked veggies for an easy meal. This simple seasoning pairs well with practically any salad or stir fr, too! Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Looking for more air fryer recipes? Try Air Fryer Asparagus, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, or Air Fryer Chicken Breasts for more ideas. If you try this Air Fryer Salmon recipe, please leave a comment and star rating below letting me know how it turns out for you!
