Air-Fried Salmon Perfection: Timing And Temperature Tips

Air fryer salmon is a quick and easy way to cook salmon that results in a tender, flaky, and succulent piece of fish. It is also a healthy meal option as salmon is a nutritious source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and cooking it in the air fryer allows you to enjoy its health benefits without added oil or fat. Depending on the thickness of the salmon and the air fryer model, the cooking time can range from 6 to 15 minutes.

Seasoning and marinade

A simple seasoning of salt and pepper, with a drizzle of olive oil, is a great base to build upon. You can then add a range of spices, such as garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, chilli powder, ginger, or Cajun seasoning. For a savoury flavour, you could add soy sauce and Dijon mustard. Honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup will add a sweet taste to the salmon. Lemon juice is another option for a tangy, fresh flavour.

You can also marinate the salmon in a mixture of your chosen seasonings and ingredients. For example, a marinade of soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard is a popular choice. Alternatively, you could try a marinade of olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of seasonings and marinades to find your favourite flavour!

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and efficiently, giving you that perfect, crispy finish. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you master the art of preheating your air fryer for the best results:

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like you would preheat an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking. Allow it to warm up for a few minutes before adding your salmon. This step is optional, but recommended for consistent results.
• Room Temperature Salmon: Take your salmon out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This step is optional but helps the salmon cook more evenly.
• Pat the Salmon Dry: Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture will help the seasonings stick better and promote a crispier exterior.
• Season Generously: Don't hold back on the seasonings! Be generous with your favourite herbs and spices to enhance the flavour of the salmon. You can use a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, or experiment with other seasonings.
• Use Cooking Spray or Oil: Lightly coat the salmon fillets or the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush them with a thin layer of oil. This step helps to create a delicious, crispy exterior.
• Place Skin Side Down: If your salmon has skin, place it skin-side down in the air fryer. This helps protect the flesh, keeping it moist and juicy. The skin will easily slide off once the salmon is cooked.
• Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for proper air circulation. This ensures even cooking and prevents the salmon from steaming, which can make it soggy.
• Check for Doneness: Salmon cooks quickly in an air fryer, so keep a close eye on it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for food safety. You can also use a fork to gently flake the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily and is opaque, your salmon is done.

Don't overcrowd the basket

While it may be tempting to stack or squish your salmon fillets together in the air fryer, doing so will likely lead to disappointing results. Overcrowding the air fryer basket can cause your salmon to steam instead of crisping up, leaving you with soggy, unevenly cooked fish.

The key to achieving that desired crispy texture is to allow for proper airflow and circulation. By cooking your salmon fillets in smaller batches, you ensure that hot air can circulate freely around each piece, resulting in that perfect golden crust.

The good news is that air fryer cooking is generally faster than roasting or frying. So, don't stress about cooking everything at once. Embrace the batch cooking method and enjoy perfectly cooked, crispy salmon every time!

Additionally, if you're cooking frozen salmon, it's important to preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and that desirable crispiness. A good rule of thumb is to preheat your air fryer for about 10 minutes before adding your salmon fillets.

Remember, it's better to make multiple batches of delicious, crispy salmon than a single batch of soggy, overcrowded fish. Embrace the batch cooking method and enjoy the fruits of your labour – literally!

Cooking time

The cooking time for salmon in an air fryer depends on the weight and thickness of the fillets, as well as the model of the air fryer. As a general rule, it takes between 6 and 15 minutes to cook salmon in an air fryer, but this can vary.

Some recipes suggest cooking 6-ounce fillets for 6 minutes, while others recommend 10 minutes. One recipe recommends 7-9 minutes for 6-ounce fillets, and another suggests 8-9 minutes for fillets that are around 1 inch thick.

It's important to keep an eye on the salmon while it's cooking, as the exact cooking time will depend on the specific air fryer and the size and thickness of the fillets. Checking the salmon with a fork is a good way to test for doneness; the fish should flake easily when it's cooked. An instant-read thermometer can also be used to check the internal temperature, which should be 145°F when the salmon is done.

It's worth noting that most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer before adding the salmon, and it's generally advised to cook only two fillets at a time to ensure even cooking.

Reheating and storage

Reheating and Storing Air-Fried Salmon

Air-fried salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, ensure the salmon is completely cool before placing it in a sealed container or freezer bag. It is also important to let the salmon thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

When reheating salmon, it is best to avoid using the microwave as this can dry out the fish and release a strong odour. Instead, use the stovetop, oven, or air fryer.

Stovetop

Let the salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Heat a non-stick skillet on medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Place the salmon in the pan, skin-side down, and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon and cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Oven

Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Remove the salmon from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Remove the salmon from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the exterior is crispy and the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Tips for Reheating

• Avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Do not overheat or overcook the salmon as this will result in dry and tough fish.
• Cover the salmon with foil or a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out and to reduce cooking smells.
• Reheat salmon slowly at a low temperature to retain moisture.
• Add moisture to the salmon by rubbing olive oil or lemon juice on the surface before reheating.
• Reheat salmon in smaller portions to avoid overcooking.
• Do not reheat salmon that has been left at room temperature for too long or that has been reheated multiple times.

Frequently asked questions