Air-Fried Salmon: Perfect Timing For Delicious Results

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a healthy, delicious meal on the table in under 15 minutes. The air fryer locks in moisture, resulting in tender, flaky salmon with a beautifully browned exterior.

Depending on the thickness of the fillets and the model of the air fryer, the cooking time can range from 6 to 11 minutes. On average, expect the salmon to be ready within 7 to 9 minutes. It is best to check for doneness with a fork; the salmon is ready when it flakes easily.

Seasoning and marinade

A simple way to season your salmon is to rub each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for a smokier flavour.

If you want to add a touch of sweetness to your salmon, you can add brown sugar or honey, which will also help the salmon caramelise. Dijon mustard is another great addition, adding a tangy flavour that pairs well with brown sugar or honey. A little soy sauce will add a salty, umami flavour, and ginger will add a subtle, lively touch.

If you want to keep things simple, you can just use a dry rub of salt and pepper, or you can try a blend of spices like garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

For a more complex flavour, you can make a marinade with a blend of soy sauce for salt and umami, honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and Dijon mustard for balance and zip. You can also try a spicy Cajun seasoning, or a lemon pepper seasoning for a kick.

If you're looking for a healthy option, avocado oil can be used instead of olive oil, and there are plenty of gluten-free options for seasoning and marinade.

Remember, the key to getting an even coating of seasoning is to pat your salmon dry first, and you can use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread the oil and seasonings over the salmon fillets.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking temperature and time for salmon in an air fryer will depend on the size and thickness of the fillets, as well as your desired level of doneness. As a rule of thumb, narrow fillets will cook more evenly and quickly than larger pieces. It's also worth noting that adding a sauce or glaze will increase the cooking time.

For 6-ounce fillets, you can expect a cooking time of 6–11 minutes at 400°F (200°C). If you're cooking skin-on fillets, place them skin-side down in the air fryer.

If you're cooking frozen salmon, you don't need to thaw it first. Simply increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes.

The best way to check if your salmon is cooked to your liking is to use a meat thermometer. The FDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For medium-rare salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C). For medium, go for 130–135°F (54–57°C), and for well-done, cook your salmon to an internal temperature of 140–145°F (60–63°C).

If you don't have a meat thermometer, check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The salmon should also be opaque and not translucent.

Pre-heating the air fryer

Firstly, refer to your air fryer's user manual to understand the specific pre-heating instructions for your model. Different air fryers may have unique features or requirements for pre-heating.

Before pre-heating, ensure your air fryer is clean and free from any residue or leftover food particles. This will help maintain the quality of your cooking and prevent any unpleasant flavours from transferring to your salmon.

To pre-heat your air fryer, turn it on and set the desired temperature, usually around 400°F (200°C). Allow it to heat up for a few minutes, typically 3-5 minutes, depending on your model. Some air fryers may have a pre-heat setting, which will automatically stop once the desired temperature is reached. If your air fryer does not have this feature, use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature.

During the pre-heating process, you can prepare your salmon fillets by cutting them into even-sized portions and applying any desired seasonings or marinades. This ensures that the salmon is ready to be placed into the air fryer as soon as it reaches the desired temperature.

Once your air fryer has pre-heated, carefully place the salmon fillets into the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding the basket can affect the overall cooking performance and the desired crispy texture. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the salmon in batches.

By pre-heating your air fryer, you create a consistent and optimal cooking environment for your salmon, promoting even cooking and the development of a delicious, crispy exterior.

Cooking from frozen

Cooking Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer

When cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer, there are a few important steps to follow to ensure it is cooked properly and safely. Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. While it is preheating, prepare your frozen salmon fillets by brushing them lightly with oil. You can also season the salmon with salt, pepper, or any other desired spices.

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the frozen salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Set the timer for 12 minutes for smaller fillets (around 4 ounces each) and 14 minutes for larger fillets (6 ounces or more). If your salmon is particularly thick or frozen solid, you may need to add an additional 2 minutes to the cooking time.

During the cooking process, there is no need to flip the salmon. The hot air circulating in the air fryer will cook it evenly on all sides. However, if you'd like to get some extra color or crispness on the top, you can gently flip the salmon halfway through the cooking time.

When the timer goes off, check the salmon for doneness. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it still appears undercooked, put it back in the air fryer for an additional 2 minutes. Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving, as this helps ensure moist and juicy fillets.

Cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to prepare a delicious and healthy meal. This method ensures that the salmon is cooked perfectly every time, and the addition of spices or seasonings can further enhance its flavor. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy tasty and nutritious salmon fillets any day of the week.

Storing and reheating

Storing

Air-fried salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked salmon in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover salmon, there are a few different methods you can use to reheat it, each with slightly different results:

• Air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Wrap the salmon fillets in aluminum foil, leaving a bit of space for air circulation, and place them in the air fryer basket. Reheat for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Let the salmon come to room temperature for about 10 minutes, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through and flaky.
• Stovetop: Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Put the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down, and cover. 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 lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power, checking the temperature often to avoid overheating.

No matter which method you choose, the key to successfully reheating salmon is to avoid overcooking it, as this can lead to dry and rubbery fish. It's also important to let the salmon come to room temperature before reheating and to check the internal temperature, which should reach 125-145°F (52-63°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.

Frequently asked questions