Air-Fried Salmon: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Air fryer salmon is a quick and easy way to cook salmon, resulting in a tender, flaky, and juicy piece of fish with a crispy outer crust. The air fryer method is also foolproof and hands-off, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The key to achieving this balance of textures is the air fryer's ability to brown the fish and create a tender centre without drying it out. The cooking time is typically under 10 minutes, and the simple seasoning of garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper enhances the flavour.

You can also get creative with seasonings, such as Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, or honey, and serve the salmon with a variety of sides, including salads, grains, and vegetables.

So, if you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious way to cook salmon, the air fryer is definitely worth trying!

Seasoning suggestions

There are many ways to season salmon when cooking it in an air fryer. Here are some seasoning suggestions:

• Garlic lemon: Replace the Dijon mustard and soy sauce in the recipe with 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, increase the garlic powder to 1 1/2 teaspoons, and add 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon while cooking.
• Honey garlic: Use 2 tablespoons of honey, 3/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and omit the soy sauce and ginger. Season the cooked salmon with an extra pinch of salt.
• Teriyaki: Brush the salmon with your favourite teriyaki sauce before cooking.
• Spicy salmon: Season the salmon with your favourite Cajun seasoning, or try the seasoning from a spicy salmon recipe.
• Salmon marinade: Use soy sauce for salt and umami, honey or pure maple syrup for sweetness, and Dijon mustard for balance and zip.
• Salt and pepper: Season the salmon with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Italian seasoning: Season the salmon with Italian seasoning before cooking.
• Cajun seasoning: Season the salmon with Cajun seasoning before cooking.
• Everything bagel seasoning: Season the salmon with everything bagel seasoning before cooking.
• Taco seasoning: Season the salmon with taco seasoning before cooking.

How to store leftover salmon

Leftover salmon should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Step 1: Cool the Salmon

Allow the cooked salmon to cool to room temperature, but make sure it doesn't sit out for more than two hours. Bacteria can start to grow if left out for too long, so plan on storing it as soon as it's cooled down.

Step 2: Wrap or Containerize the Salmon

Place the salmon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, double wrap it in foil to prevent the fridge from smelling like fish, especially if it's smoked salmon.

Step 3: Label and Date the Salmon

Label the container or wrapping with the date and any relevant notes, such as seasonings used or the type of salmon. This will help you remember what's in the container and how fresh it is.

Step 4: Refrigerate or Freeze the Salmon

If you plan to eat the leftover salmon within three days, store it in the refrigerator. Otherwise, freeze it to extend its shelf life to up to three months. Make sure to freeze the salmon as soon as possible after cooking to maintain its quality.

Step 5: Reheat and Serve the Salmon

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover salmon, there are a few ways to reheat it safely:

• In the oven: Cover the salmon loosely with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 275 °F (135 °C) for about 15 minutes.
• On the stovetop: Gently reheat the salmon in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.
• In the air fryer: Reheat the salmon at a low temperature for a short time to prevent it from drying out.

Tips for Storing Leftover Salmon:

• Use leftover salmon in dishes like chowder, curry, salmon spread, or salmon burgers to give them a rich flavor.
• If you're storing raw salmon, season it with salt to extend its shelf life and enhance its flavor.
• When storing raw salmon in the fridge, place it in a sealable plastic bag with as much air removed as possible to prevent oxidation and extend its freshness.
• If you're storing cooked salmon in the fridge, consume it within three to four days for optimal food safety and quality.

By following these steps and tips, you can safely store and enjoy leftover salmon while minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Air fryer temperature

When cooking salmon in an air fryer, it is crucial to preheat the appliance to the desired temperature before adding the salmon. This allows for even cooking and helps to achieve the desired level of crispness on the exterior of the salmon.

Depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets and the specific model of the air fryer, the cooking time may vary. On average, air-fried salmon is typically cooked within 6 to 11 minutes. However, it is important to keep an eye on the salmon to prevent overcooking, as this can result in dry and less flavourful fish.

To ensure the salmon is cooked to perfection, it is recommended to use an instant-read thermometer. According to the FDA, salmon should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the fish. Removing the salmon from the air fryer around 135 degrees Fahrenheit and allowing it to rest covered can help maintain moisture and achieve the desired temperature through carryover cooking.

Additionally, when cooking salmon in an air fryer, it is important not to overcrowd the basket. This ensures proper air circulation and even cooking. If necessary, cook the salmon in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Air fryer salmon variations

There are several ways to cook salmon in an air fryer, and you can even cook it from frozen. Here are some variations:

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper: Season the salmon with salt and black pepper and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
• Spices: Play around with spices like Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
• Honey: Try using honey instead of maple syrup.

Glazes

• Maple Soy Glaze: Marinate the salmon in maple syrup, sriracha, garlic, and soy sauce. While the salmon is in the air fryer, reduce the marinade into a glaze and pour it over the fish.
• Dijon Mustard: Spread a layer of Dijon mustard onto the salmon fillets before cooking.

Other Variations

• No preheating required: Most air fryer recipes don't require preheating.
• No flipping: There's no need to flip the salmon while it's cooking.
• No overcrowding: Make sure there's enough space in the air fryer for air to circulate around the salmon.
• Skin on or off: You can cook the salmon with or without the skin. If you leave the skin on, cook the salmon skin-side down and remove the skin before serving.

Air fryer salmon hot tips

Air fryer salmon is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook salmon. Here are some hot tips to help you achieve perfect results:

Preheat the Air Fryer

Before adding the salmon, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and properly.

Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer

Make sure there is enough space in the air fryer for the air to circulate around the salmon. If the salmon fillets are crowded or overlapping, they may cook unevenly and affect the hot air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.

Prepare the Salmon Fillets

For even cooking, try to use salmon fillets of similar thickness and size. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before adding any seasonings. This helps the seasonings stick better and promotes crisping.

Seasoning and Flavour Options

You can season your salmon with a variety of spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. For a bolder flavour, try Dijon mustard or a maple soy glaze. Play around with different combinations to find your favourite!

Cooking Time

The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon and the model of your air fryer. On average, it takes about 7-11 minutes to cook salmon in an air fryer. Check for doneness by using a fork to see if the salmon flakes easily.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer salmon goes well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with rice, couscous, barley, or farro, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also pair it with air-fried vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or cauliflower rice.

Frequently asked questions