Air-Fryer Salmon: How Long To Fry?

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy and delicious meal. The circulating high heat of the air fryer keeps the fish moist, with tender, flaky insides and a crispy outer crust. Depending on the thickness of the fillets and the type of air fryer, the cooking time can range from 6 to 15 minutes at a temperature of around 400°F (200°C).

How to season salmon for the air fryer

Air fryer salmon is a quick and easy way to cook salmon, which results in seared edges and a tender, flaky centre. It is low-carb and low-calorie and can be ready in 10 minutes.

• Cut the salmon fillets into even sizes. You can also purchase them pre-cut.
• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasoning stick better.
• Season each fillet with your chosen spices. Some popular options include garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. You can also add a sprinkle of brown sugar for sweetness.
• Rub the spices into the salmon fillets for the best flavour.
• Place the seasoned salmon fillets into the air fryer.
• Cook the salmon for 7-11 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and the model of your air fryer.
• Check the salmon for doneness with a fork. It is ready when it flakes off easily.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air fryer salmon!

How to cook salmon in the air fryer

Air-frying salmon is a quick and easy way to get a healthy dinner on the table in under 15 minutes. The circulating high heat of the air fryer keeps the fish moist and, if you're cooking skin-on fillets, it will crisp up the skin beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 2 x 6-ounce salmon fillets (you can use fresh or frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw frozen salmon before cooking)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, as needed
• Optional: 1 lemon and 1 cup cherry tomatoes

Method:

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
• Brush the salmon with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• If using lemon and cherry tomatoes, thinly slice half the lemon crosswise and set the remaining lemon half aside. In a small bowl, add the cherry tomatoes, lemon slices and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and toss to combine.
• Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Top with lemon slices and scatter the tomatoes around the basket, if using.
• Cook until the salmon skin is crisped and lightly browned (around 5-7 minutes).
• Flip the fillets and cook for another 4-6 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
• Squeeze the remaining lemon half over the salmon fillets, if desired, and serve.

Tips:

• Check the salmon early to make sure you don't overcook it. The internal temperature of the salmon should be 145°F when it's done.
• You can cook the salmon without flipping it. Simply air fry for 8-10 minutes, until flaky.
• If you're cooking from frozen, place the unthawed fillets in the air fryer and add an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
• You can also cook salmon in the air fryer with a glaze or seasoning blend. Try a mixture of brown sugar, garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, and ginger for a sweet and savory glaze, or season the salmon with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for a simple, spiced dish.

How to store leftover salmon

Leftover salmon should be stored in the fridge or freezer. It's important to note that the flavour and texture of the fish will not be the same as freshly cooked salmon. It's best to flake the leftover salmon and use it in dishes like chowder, curry, salmon spread, or salmon burgers.

Refrigerating Cooked Salmon

Cool the salmon: Let the cooked salmon cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking. If the fish is left out for more than 2 hours, harmful bacteria may start to grow.

Wrap the salmon: Once the salmon is cool, wrap it in foil or plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. If storing smoked salmon, wrap it in foil first to prevent the fridge from smelling like fish. Label the container with the date and "cooked salmon."

Refrigerate: Place the wrapped or containerised salmon in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days. If you're reheating the salmon, cover and warm it in the oven at 275 °F (135 °C) for about 15 minutes.

Storing Cooked Salmon in the Freezer

Wrap the salmon: Let the cooked salmon cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminium foil, or place it in a sealable freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to save space in the freezer.

Label the package: Write the date and "cooked salmon" on the package. Include any specific seasonings or flavours to know what dishes it would be best suited for later.

Freeze the salmon: Place the wrapped or packaged salmon in the freezer. Consume the frozen salmon within 3 months to ensure the best quality.

Thaw and reheat: When ready to eat, transfer the salmon from the freezer to the fridge and let it thaw for about 6 hours. Reheat the salmon in the oven at 325 °F (163 °C) for 8 to 12 minutes.

How to reheat salmon

Air fryers are a great option for reheating salmon as they are quick, efficient, and help to retain the moisture in the fish, leaving it juicy and tender. They also add a delightful crunch to the surface of the salmon.

Ingredients and Tools You'll Need:

• Leftover salmon fillets at room temperature
• Olive oil or cooking spray (optional)
• Seasonings and herbs of your choice, such as garlic powder, lemon zest, dill, salt, and pepper
• Air fryer
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). While the air fryer is preheating, prepare your leftover salmon. If you prefer crispy skin, consider using a light coating of olive oil or cooking spray. Sprinkle your choice of seasonings and herbs over the salmon fillets.

Wrap the Salmon

Take a sheet of aluminum foil and gently wrap it around the salmon, creating a packet. Ensure the foil is sealed but loose enough to allow hot air to circulate and keep the salmon moist.

Place in the Air Fryer

Once your air fryer has preheated, carefully place the foil-wrapped salmon inside. Set the air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as the exact time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon and your air fryer model.

Check the Temperature

For precision, use a cooking thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon. It should reach 125-130°F (52-54°C) to ensure it is safe to eat and perfectly reheated.

Rest and Serve

Once the desired temperature is reached, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute or two before unwrapping. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite. You can garnish your reheated salmon with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or your favorite sauce before serving.

Tips for Reheating Salmon in an Air Fryer:

• Invest in an instant-read thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches the ideal internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C).
• Arrange your salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
• Experiment with different seasonings and be creative. Salmon pairs well with a variety of flavors, such as fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary.
• Reheat the salmon from room temperature for more even results.
• Wrap the salmon loosely in aluminum foil to retain moisture, leaving a bit of space for hot air circulation.
• Allow the salmon to rest briefly after removing it from the air fryer before unwrapping and serving.
• Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of sauce to add freshness.
• Don't be afraid to experiment and learn; perfecting the art of reheating salmon in an air fryer may take practice.

Other Methods for Reheating Salmon:

While the air fryer is an excellent option, there are also other methods you can use to reheat salmon:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 275°F-350°F (135°C-175°C). Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish or on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake for 10-20 minutes until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add olive oil or butter, then place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cover the skillet. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed through.
• Microwave (least recommended): Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds on medium power, checking the temperature often to avoid overcooking.
• Toaster oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a piece of aluminum foil or a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil or lemon juice and heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally.
• Steaming: Bring a pot of water to a simmer and place the salmon in a steamer basket or on a heatproof plate above the water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Sous vide: Preheat your sous vide machine to 120ºF-125ºF. Place the leftover salmon in a vacuum-sealable bag, slowly submerge it, and then fully submerge for about 20-30 minutes.

Mistakes to Avoid When Reheating Salmon:

• Overheating: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) without exceeding it.
• Using too much heat: Stick to recommended temperatures and times to prevent the salmon from cooking too quickly on the outside while remaining cold inside.
• Not covering the salmon: Use a damp paper towel or foil to prevent the salmon from drying out and to retain moisture.
• Overcrowding the cooking vessel: Leave enough space around the salmon to ensure even reheating.
• Not letting the salmon reach room temperature before reheating: Allow the salmon to reach room temperature for more even cooking.
• Reheating multiple times: Reheating salmon more than once can lead to a dry texture and loss of flavor.
• Not storing the salmon properly: Before reheating, ensure the salmon is stored properly to prevent spoilage and bacteria growth.

Storing Leftover Salmon:

• Give leftover salmon a chance to cool down to room temperature to prevent bacteria growth.
• Wrap the salmon in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, sealing it tightly to keep air out and lock in moisture.
• Place the wrapped salmon in an air

What to serve with air fryer salmon

Now that you know how long to put salmon in the air fryer, here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

Salad

A fresh salad is a great side dish to serve with salmon. Try a Corn Tomato Avocado Salad, a Cauliflower Tabbouleh Salad, an Asian Noodle Salad, or a classic Arugula Salad.

Vegetables

You can pair any vegetable with salmon. Some ideas include Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice, Green Beans with Almonds, Grilled Asparagus, Roasted Asparagus, Air Fryer Asparagus, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, or Sauteed Brussels Sprouts.

Grains

Rice, couscous, barley, and farro all make excellent accompaniments to salmon. Try Lebanese Rice, Mediterranean Couscous Salad, Turmeric Rice Salad, or Instant Pot Brown Rice.

Other Ideas

• Salmon goes well with citrus, so consider adding some lemon wedges or a squeeze of lemon juice to your dish.
• For a comforting and hearty meal, serve salmon with mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.
• If you're looking for a creamy and indulgent side dish, try making a hollandaise or bearnaise sauce to serve with your salmon.
• To round out your meal, add a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• For a refreshing and healthy option, make a fruit salad or serve fresh fruit slices on the side.

Frequently asked questions