Air-Fried Salmon Perfection: 400 Degrees, How Long?

Air fryer salmon is a quick and easy way to cook salmon, resulting in a flaky and tender centre with a crispy, golden exterior. The air fryer cooks salmon to perfection in under 15 minutes, making it a convenient weeknight dinner option. The best temperature to cook salmon in an air fryer is 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which gives the fish a slight crust on top while keeping the inside juicy and flaky. Depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets, the cooking time may vary, but on average, it takes about 7 to 11 minutes for the salmon to be cooked through.

How long to cook salmon in an air fryer at 400

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy and delicious meal. The air fryer's circulating air cooks the salmon to a flaky and tender texture while also browning the fish for a restaurant-quality finish.

The cooking time for salmon in an air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit depends on the thickness of the salmon fillets and the exact model of the air fryer. On average, the salmon will be cooked within 7 to 11 minutes. For thicker fillets, expect a longer cooking time of around 8 to 10 minutes. You can check if the salmon is done by using a fork to see if it flakes easily. An instant-read thermometer can also be used to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit when the salmon is fully cooked.

Tips for cooking salmon in an air fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning to help the seasonings stick better.
• Season the salmon with your choice of spices, such as garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
• Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
• Cook the salmon for 7 to 11 minutes, depending on the thickness and your desired doneness.
• Check the salmon with a fork to ensure it flakes easily and is cooked to your preference.
• Remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve immediately.

How to prep salmon for an air fryer

Preparing salmon for the air fryer is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by cutting the salmon fillets into even sizes. You can also purchase pre-cut fillets. It is recommended to keep the skin on, as it helps the fillet hold together during cooking and yields moister results. However, you can remove the skin if you prefer. Make sure to pat the salmon dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick and to promote crisping.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Now, it's time to season your salmon. You can use a variety of seasonings and spices to suit your taste. Here are some popular options:

• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Brown sugar or honey
• Dijon mustard
• Olive oil
• Soy sauce
• Ginger
• Chili powder
• Italian seasoning

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favorite flavor profile. Mix the seasonings in a small bowl, then rub or spoon them over the salmon fillets, making sure to coat all sides evenly.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is important to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. Different air fryers may have specific instructions for preheating, so be sure to refer to your air fryer's manual.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook the salmon for 6 to 11 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your air fryer model. For 1-inch thick fillets, aim for around 8 to 9 minutes. You can cook the salmon skin-side down to get a crispy exterior.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To check if your salmon is done, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for food safety. Alternatively, you can use a fork to gently flake the salmon. If it flakes easily, it is likely done.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your salmon is cooked to your desired doneness, transfer it to a serving plate and enjoy! Air fryer salmon goes well with various sides, such as salad, grains like rice or couscous, or roasted vegetables.

What temperature to cook salmon in an air fryer

Air-frying salmon is a quick and easy way to cook salmon, which results in seared edges and a tender, flaky centre. It is recommended to cook salmon at a high temperature, such as 400 degrees Fahrenheit, to achieve salmon that is flaky and tender, with a slight crust on top from the higher heat.

The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon and the exact air fryer model. On average, expect the air fryer salmon to be cooked within 7-11 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it flakes off easily.

Tips for cooking salmon in an air fryer

• Make sure the salmon fillets are of comparable thickness so they cook evenly at the same time. Depending on the size of the air fryer, you may have to cook them in batches.
• Preheat your air fryer before adding the seasoned salmon. This will allow the salmon to cook evenly and give it a more crisped edge.
• Don't overcrowd your basket. If you do, you risk the salmon not being crispy because the moisture from the fillets touching each other can affect the hot air circulating. Air fry the salmon in two batches if necessary.
• Check for doneness with a fork or an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
• You can cook frozen salmon in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Lay the salmon on aluminium foil in the air fryer and cook for about 7 minutes or until thawed.
• For easy cleanup, line the air fryer basket with aluminium foil or parchment paper.
• It is not necessary to wrap salmon in foil in the air fryer or to flip the salmon during cooking.

How to store leftover salmon

Storing leftover salmon is simple, but it's important to act quickly to prevent harmful bacteria from growing. Ideally, you should store leftover salmon within 2 hours of cooking it.

Refrigerating Leftover Salmon

To refrigerate leftover salmon, first let the salmon cool to room temperature. Then, place the salmon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. If you're 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", and be sure to eat it within 3 days.

Reheating Refrigerated Salmon

If you're reheating a salmon fillet, cover it loosely with foil and place it in an oven preheated to 275 °F (135 °C) for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon's internal temperature reaches 125-130 °F (52-54 °C).

Freezing Leftover Salmon

To freeze leftover salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap within 2 hours of cooking it. Then, wrap it in foil or place it in a sealable freezer bag, removing as much air from the bag as possible. Label the package with the date and "cooked salmon", and place it in the freezer. Consume frozen salmon within 3 months.

Reheating Frozen Salmon

To reheat frozen salmon, first thaw it in the fridge for about 6 hours. Then, place the salmon on a rimmed baking sheet, cover it with foil, and bake it in an oven preheated to 325 °F (163 °C) for 8-12 minutes, or until it's warmed throughout.

Using Leftover Salmon

Leftover salmon can be flaked or cut into bite-sized pieces and added to soups, curries, casseroles, or salads. It can also be blended with cream cheese and crème fraîche or yogurt to make salmon spread, or formed into patties and cooked to make salmon burgers.

What to serve with air fryer salmon

Air fryer salmon is best served with a side of vegetables, salad, or grains.

Vegetables

Asparagus and salmon are a classic pairing. You could also try roasted lemon honey asparagus, simple green beans, or air fryer broccoli.

Salad

A fresh salad is a great accompaniment to air fryer salmon. Try a Corn Tomato Avocado Salad, an Asian Noodle Salad, or a Cauliflower Tabbouleh Salad for a well-balanced meal.

Grains

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

Frequently asked questions