Air-Fryer Salmon: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy, protein-rich meal. The air fryer locks in moisture, resulting in tender, flaky, and flavourful salmon that is cooked to perfection. Depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets and the type of air fryer used, the cooking time can range from 6 to 15 minutes.

How to season salmon for the air fryer

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a delicious, tender, and flaky piece of fish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season salmon for the air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

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

Step 2: Add Moisture

The next step is to add some moisture to the salmon. You can brush or drizzle a small amount of olive oil onto each fillet. This will help keep the salmon moist and juicy during cooking.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Now it's time to add the seasonings. You can use a variety of seasonings like garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Be generous with the seasonings and rub them into the salmon fillets to ensure full flavour. You can also try other seasoning combinations like Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or a blend of your favourite herbs and spices.

Step 4: Place in the Air Fryer

Once the salmon fillets are seasoned, place them in the air fryer. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this can affect cooking. Cook the salmon for 7-11 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your air fryer model. Check the salmon with a fork to see if it flakes easily; if it does, it's ready!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your salmon is cooked to your desired doneness, serve it with your favourite sides and enjoy! Salmon pairs well with salads, grains like rice or couscous, and roasted or air-fried vegetables.

How long to cook salmon in the air fryer

Air fryer salmon is a quick and easy way to cook salmon, resulting in a tender, flaky, and delicious piece of fish. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon and the model of the air fryer, but on average, it will take around 6 to 10 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook salmon in an air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by cutting the salmon fillets into even sizes. You can also remove the skin if you prefer, but it is not necessary. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick to the fish and create a beautiful golden exterior during cooking.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

There are many different ways to season salmon, but a simple blend of garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper is a great option. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavor and help the spices stick to the fish. Another option is to use a mixture of brown sugar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger for a sweet and savory glaze.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer for 5 minutes at 390°F (200°C) before lowering the temperature to 360°F (180°C) for cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if your salmon has skin. Make sure there is space between the fillets to allow for even cooking. Cook the salmon for 6 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your desired doneness. For medium-rare salmon, cook to an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C). For medium, cook to 130-135°F (54-57°C), and for well-done, cook to 140-145°F (60-63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

The best way to check if your salmon is done is to use a fork to see if it flakes easily. You can also check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The FDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the salmon.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your salmon is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can squeeze some lemon juice over the fish to add a fresh touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious and healthy air fryer salmon!

How to store leftover salmon

Storing leftover salmon is simple, and there are several ways to do so. However, it's important to note that leftover salmon should not be kept for too long, as it will lose its flavour and texture over time. With that said, here are some tips on how to store leftover salmon:

• Refrigeration: Leftover salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is important to cool the salmon to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking and then place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Make sure to label the container with the date and try to use the salmon within 2 days if it's leftover from a restaurant.
• Freezing: If you want to store leftover salmon for longer, freezing is a good option. Wrap the salmon tightly 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. When you're ready to use it, thaw the salmon in the refrigerator for about 6 hours and then reheat it gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Using in Other Dishes: Instead of simply reheating leftover salmon, you can add it to other dishes such as soups, curries, casseroles, salads, or even make salmon burgers or salmon spread. This is a great way to use up leftover salmon without having to worry about reheating it.
• Preparation: Before storing leftover salmon, it's a good idea to remove the skin, as this will make it easier to use in other dishes. You can also break the salmon into smaller pieces or flakes, which will also make it more versatile for future use.
• Portioning: Consider dividing leftover salmon into smaller portions before storing. This way, you can take out only what you need, rather than having to thaw or reheat a large amount at once.
• Storage Containers: Choose shallow, airtight containers for storing leftover salmon. This will help the salmon cool down faster and stay fresher for longer.
• Avoiding the Microwave: It's best to avoid reheating leftover salmon in the microwave, as it can dry out the fish and leave a fishy smell in the microwave. Instead, opt for gentle reheating in the oven or on the stovetop.

How to reheat leftover salmon

Air fryers are a fantastic alternative to conventional reheating methods, such as ovens or microwaves, as they provide several benefits when it comes to reheating leftover salmon. Here are some reasons why an air fryer is an excellent choice:

• Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, ensuring even and efficient heating. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the salmon and prevents it from becoming soggy.
• Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food evenly, resulting in consistent texture and flavor throughout the fish.
• Air fryers require minimal oil, making them a healthier option that preserves the natural flavors of the salmon without adding excess calories.
• Air fryers are versatile appliances that can handle a wide range of cooking tasks, making them an all-in-one solution in the kitchen.
• Air fryers reheat food faster than traditional ovens, making them a convenient choice for busy individuals.
• Air fryers provide better control over the cooking process, reducing the risk of overcooking compared to microwaves.
• Air frying minimizes the loss of nutrients and flavors, helping to retain the natural taste and nutritional value of the salmon.
• Air fryers are user-friendly and often come with preset settings, ensuring consistent results.
• Air fryers consume less energy compared to conventional ovens, making them an environmentally conscious choice.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reheating Leftover Salmon in an Air Fryer:

Now that we've discussed the benefits of using an air fryer, let's dive into the step-by-step process of reheating your leftover salmon:

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon

• Start by gently patting dry the leftover salmon using paper towels. This step is crucial to remove any excess moisture that could lead to sogginess during reheating.
• If desired, lightly brush or spray the salmon with a small amount of oil to enhance its crispy texture. You can use olive oil or any oil of your choice.

Step 2: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to around 350°F (180°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps develop the desired crispiness. Allow the air fryer to reach the set temperature before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Arranging the Salmon

• Place the salmon fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to ensure proper air circulation.
• If you're reheating a large quantity of salmon, consider doing it in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can affect crispiness.

Step 4: Reheating Process

• Place the basket containing the salmon into the preheated air fryer.
• Set the timer for a short duration, typically around 3-5 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets and your air fryer model. The goal is to reheat the salmon without overcooking it.

Step 5: Monitoring and Flipping

• Keep a close eye on the salmon during the reheating process to prevent overcooking or burning.
• If your air fryer doesn't have an automatic rotation feature, consider flipping the salmon fillets halfway through the reheating time to ensure even crispiness on both sides.

Step 6: Testing for Crispiness

• After the reheating time is up, carefully remove one fillet and check its texture. The exterior should be golden-brown and crispy, while the interior should remain flaky and tender.
• If you're not satisfied with the crispiness, you can return the salmon to the air fryer for an additional minute or two.

Step 7: Serving

Once the salmon is reheated to perfection, serve it immediately. Pair it with your favorite sides, sauces, or salads to create a complete and enjoyable meal.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• Choose thicker and flakier fish varieties, such as salmon, trout, cod, or haddock, as they tend to hold up better during the reheating process.
• Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and to prevent your salmon from drying out.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to maintain crispiness and allow proper air circulation.
• Monitor the salmon closely during reheating and adjust the timing as needed to prevent overcooking.
• For added flavor and moisture, consider drizzling lemon juice or olive oil over the salmon before reheating.
• If you're reheating frozen salmon, preheat the air fryer and follow the same instructions, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
• Reheat salmon only once to retain moisture and flavor. Reheating multiple times can lead to a dry texture and loss of flavor.

By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy your leftover salmon with the same moisture, flavor, and crispiness as when it was freshly cooked. Bon appétit!

What to serve with air fryer salmon

Now that you've cooked your salmon in the air fryer, it's time to think about what to serve with it. Here are some ideas to accompany your air fryer salmon:

Salad

A fresh salad is a great option to serve with air fryer salmon. Try a Corn Tomato Avocado Salad or a Cauliflower Tabbouleh Salad for a well-balanced meal. You could also go for an Asian Noodle Salad or keep it classic with a simple Arugula Salad.

Grains

Rice, couscous, barley, or farro make excellent accompaniments to salmon for a filling meal. Try Lebanese Rice, Mediterranean Couscous Salad, or Turmeric Rice Salad.

Vegetables

You can cook whatever vegetable you like with salmon in the air fryer. Some suggestions include Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice, Green Beans with Almonds, Grilled Asparagus, Roasted Asparagus, Air Fryer Asparagus, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, or Sauteed Brussels Sprouts.

Whole Grains

Add some fiber and healthy carbohydrates to your meal by serving the salmon with Instant Pot Brown Rice.

Frequently asked questions