Grilled Salmon, Air-Fried: Is It Possible?

Air fryer salmon is a quick and easy way to cook salmon, resulting in a tender, flaky, and delicious piece of fish. The air fryer browns the fish wonderfully, creating a restaurant-quality meal in just 10 minutes. It is also a healthier option compared to shallow frying the fish.

To cook salmon in an air fryer, simply brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and spices such as garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Some recipes also include a touch of brown sugar or honey to add a subtle sweetness and help caramelize the fish. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and cook at 400°F for 6-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

You can serve air fryer salmon with a variety of sides, such as salad, grains like rice or quinoa, or vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli.

How to season salmon for an air fryer

Seasoning salmon for the air fryer is a simple process that can be done in a few different ways, depending on your taste preferences. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season salmon for an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by setting your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps the seasoning stick to the fish. You can also cut the fillets into even sizes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Apply the Base

The base layer of your seasoning can be olive oil, Dijon mustard, or a combination of both. Spread a thin layer of your chosen base on each salmon fillet. This will help keep the fish moist and add flavour.

Step 3: Add Your Seasonings

Now it's time to add your chosen seasonings. You can use a blend of spices such as garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Be generous with the garlic powder and paprika for a more intense flavour. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger for a subtle, lively touch. Sprinkle each spice onto the salmon fillets, or mix them together in a small bowl before applying.

Step 4: Air Fry

Once your salmon fillets are seasoned, they are ready to be cooked in the air fryer. Place two fillets in the air fryer at a time and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky. Check the salmon after 8 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Step 5: Serve

Your air-fried salmon is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it as is or with a side of your choice. Some suggested sides include salad, roasted vegetables, or grains like rice or couscous.

Remember, the key to successful seasoning is to be generous and adjust to your taste preferences. You can always add more or less of a particular spice to suit your taste. Enjoy experimenting with different seasoning combinations to find your favourite way to flavour salmon in the air fryer!

How long to cook salmon in an air fryer

The length of time it takes to cook salmon in an air fryer depends on several factors, including the weight and thickness of the fillet, the desired level of doneness, and the specific air fryer model being used.

Weight and Thickness

It is recommended to use salmon fillets that are of uniform size and weight, as this ensures even cooking. Narrow fillets (around 5-6 ounces) will cook more evenly and quickly than larger pieces.

Desired Level of Doneness

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F. For a medium-rare finish, cook the salmon to an internal temperature of 125-130°F, for medium aim for 130-135°F, and for well-done, cook the salmon to 140-145°F.

Air Fryer Model

Different air fryer models may require slightly different cooking times, even when cooking the same weight and thickness of salmon fillet to the same level of doneness. Therefore, it is important to keep a close eye on the salmon while it is cooking and use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature.

Cooking Time

Taking the above factors into account, the typical cooking time for salmon in an air fryer is between 6 and 11 minutes for individual fillets. However, it is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the specific circumstances, and it is always better to slightly undercook the salmon and then add more time as needed, rather than accidentally overcooking it.

What temperature to cook salmon at in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook salmon in an air fryer! It's a quick and easy way to cook salmon, which results in tender, flaky fish with seared edges.

Temperature and Timing

To cook salmon in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400°F. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon fillets and the model of the air fryer, but on average, the salmon will be cooked within 7-11 minutes. It is recommended to check the salmon with a fork to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Tips for Cooking Salmon in an Air Fryer

• Cut the salmon fillets into even sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
• Preheat the air fryer before adding the seasoned salmon to allow for even cooking and a more crisped edge.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure the salmon gets crispy. Cook the salmon in batches if necessary.
• There is no need to flip the salmon while it is cooking in the air fryer.
• You can cook frozen salmon in the air fryer, but it is recommended to defrost it first.
• Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Seasoning Ideas

• Season the salmon with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
• Use a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and finish with a spray of olive oil to keep the salmon moist.
• Try a glaze made with brown sugar or honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger.
• Add lemon slices on top of the salmon while cooking for a garlic lemon flavor.
• Brush the salmon with teriyaki sauce before cooking.
• Season the salmon with Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.

Side Dish Ideas

• Salad: Try a fresh salad like Corn Tomato Avocado Salad or Cauliflower Tabbouleh Salad.
• Grains: Serve with rice, couscous, barley, or farro for a filling meal.
• Vegetables: Cook your favorite vegetables in the air fryer, such as Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice and Green Beans with Almonds.

What to serve with air fryer salmon

There are several options for what to serve with air fryer salmon.

Salad

A fresh salad is a great side dish to accompany air fryer salmon. For something different, try an Asian noodle salad, or keep it classic with a green arugula salad.

Vegetables

You can pair any vegetable with salmon. For a comfort-food dinner, try roasted fingerling potatoes, or roasted asparagus. You could also try air fryer asparagus, or roasted or grilled Brussels sprouts.

Grains

Rice, couscous, barley, and farro all make excellent accompaniments to salmon for a filling meal. Try it with Lebanese rice, Mediterranean couscous salad, or turmeric rice salad.

Whole grains

Add some fibre and healthy carbohydrates to the meal by adding a serving of brown rice.

How to store leftover salmon

Storing leftover salmon is a great way to ensure you have a delicious meal ready to go in the fridge. Here is a detailed guide on how to store leftover salmon safely:

Refrigerating Cooked Salmon:

• Allow the salmon to cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking. Leaving cooked salmon out for more than 2 hours can cause harmful bacteria to grow.
• Place the salmon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. If storing smoked salmon, double wrap it; first in plastic wrap, then in foil, to prevent your fridge from smelling fishy.
• Label the container with the date and try to consume within 2-3 days for optimal food safety and quality.
• When reheating, cover the salmon and warm it in an oven preheated to 275°F (135°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125-130°F (52-54°C).

Storing in the Freezer:

• Wrap the salmon in plastic wrap within 2 hours of cooking and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Label the package with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, transfer the salmon from the freezer to the fridge and let it thaw for about 6 hours or until completely thawed.
• Reheat in an oven preheated to 325°F (163°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until warmed through.

Using Leftover Salmon:

• Add cooked salmon to soups, chowders, curries, or casseroles.
• Make salmon spread by blending cooked salmon with cream cheese, crème fraîche, or yogurt, and your choice of seasonings.
• Create salmon burgers by mixing flaked salmon with breadcrumbs and mayonnaise, shaping into patties, and cooking in a skillet.
• Use cold, flaked salmon in salads or sandwiches for a quick and easy meal.

Remember to always check the salmon for any signs of spoilage before consuming. Enjoy your delicious leftover salmon!

Frequently asked questions