My love affair with the air fryer shows no signs of waning, and this week, I’m excited to unveil the secrets of air frying salmon. Let me tell you, this method is an absolute game – changer! The result is a salmon dish that’s not only incredibly delicious but also quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and cooked to perfection without ever drying out. It’s quickly become a new staple in our household, joining the ranks of other air – fried favorites like wings, steak, and fish.
One of the best things about this air fryer salmon recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling a million tasks or a professional with limited time to spare, this dish fits seamlessly into your schedule. And the fact that it’s healthy makes it an even more appealing choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
I’ve had the pleasure of air frying both fresh and frozen salmon, and while I must confess that fresh salmon holds a special place in my heart, frozen salmon has its own merits. In this stage of my life, where I only grocery shop once a week or less, having a variety of frozen dinner options is a practical necessity. So, depending on what’s available in our freezer, we happily cook both.
If you’re using frozen salmon, the first step is to thaw it. There are a couple of ways to do this. My go – to method is to place the sealed bag containing the salmon fillet in a bowl filled with very warm water in the sink. The thawing time can vary, usually taking between 5 – 8 minutes, depending on the size of the fillet. For a more hands – off approach, you can simply leave the sealed bag in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, you’re ready to transform it into a mouthwatering meal.
Before popping the salmon into the air fryer, it’s time to season. This is where you can really let your creativity shine. Some of my favorite spices to use include garlic powder or salt, seasoning salt, Italian seasoning, a dash of cayenne for a bit of heat, pepper, zesty lemon pepper, smoky paprika, or bold cajun seasoning. If you’re new to seasoning salmon or feeling a bit unsure, starting with the classic combination of salt and pepper is always a safe bet.
To make this delightful air fryer salmon, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: salmon fillets, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and a lemon. The simplicity of these ingredients belies the complexity of flavors that come together in the final dish.
The process of air frying the salmon is straightforward. First, preheat your air fryer to the appropriate temperature. While it’s heating up, generously season both sides of the salmon fillets with your chosen spices. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the fillets to help them crisp up in the air fryer. Then, place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. This allows for proper airflow and even cooking.
Cook the salmon for a set amount of time, usually around 8 – 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and flip the fillets halfway through the cooking process to ensure both sides are cooked evenly. When the salmon is done, it should be flaky, tender, and have a beautiful golden – brown crust.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon just before serving adds a bright, citrusy note that elevates the dish to new heights. Whether you serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a bed of fluffy rice, air fryer salmon is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. So, fire up your air fryer and embark on a culinary adventure with this amazing salmon recipe – you won’t be disappointed!
