Air-Fried Salmon Steak: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Cooking salmon steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy meal. The air fryer gives salmon a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flaky. The cooking time depends on the thickness of the salmon steak, but it usually takes between 6 and 16 minutes. Before cooking, the salmon can be marinated in a variety of seasonings to add flavor and create a crispy outer crust. The air fryer basket should be sprayed with cooking spray or lined with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking. After cooking, the salmon can be garnished with herbs, lemon wedges, or sesame seeds, and served with a variety of sides.

Marinating salmon steaks

To begin the marinating process, wash and pat the salmon steaks dry on both sides using paper towels. You can then season the salmon with salt and pepper or your desired seasoning blend. If you want to add a sweet note to your salmon, you can brush it with a mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard, teriyaki sauce, or honey. Alternatively, for a smokier flavour, you can use smoked paprika and brown sugar. For an Asian-inspired flavour, you can marinate the salmon in a blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.

After seasoning the salmon, cover it with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. The longer you let the salmon sit, the more time it has to absorb the flavours of the marinade.

Once the salmon is done marinating, you can place it in the air fryer. Note that it is recommended to preheat the air fryer before adding the salmon, as this will ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. Additionally, be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as proper air circulation is necessary for the cooking process and to achieve a crispy texture.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for salmon steaks in an air fryer depend on the thickness of the cut and the model of the air fryer. It is recommended to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. The ideal temperature for cooking salmon steaks is between 390°F and 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 16 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak.

For thicker salmon steaks, it is essential to adjust the cooking time accordingly, with some recipes suggesting up to 10-12 minutes for a thorough cook. It is worth noting that the circulating hot air in the air fryer cooks the salmon evenly on both sides, eliminating the need to flip the steaks during the cooking process.

To check if the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness, use a fork to see if the fish flakes off easily. Additionally, a quick-read thermometer can be used to ensure the salmon has reached an internal temperature of 135°F to 145°F.

For those who prefer their salmon with a crispy skin, it is recommended to cook skin-on salmon fillets for 7-9 minutes, depending on thickness. This ensures the skin remains intact and results in a crispier texture.

When cooking with a glaze or marinade, it is advisable to reduce the temperature of the air fryer to 350°F to prevent burning. It is also recommended to add the glaze or marinade towards the end of the cooking process, allowing the heat to slightly caramelize the sauce without overcooking the salmon.

Overall, the cooking time and temperature for salmon steaks in an air fryer can be adjusted based on personal preferences, the thickness of the salmon, and the desired level of doneness.

Seasoning and spices

Salmon is a fatty fish that can handle bold flavours, so don't be afraid to be generous with your seasoning. You can use nearly any spice combination, but remember to adjust the amount of salt in your blend if it already includes some.

A simple seasoning of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper works well with any side dish. You can also use fresh garlic, but be careful as it can burn in the air fryer. If you want to add a subtle sweetness and enhance the caramelisation of the fish, add a touch of brown sugar. For a smokier aroma, use smoked paprika, or swap it for regular paprika if you want less of that flavour. Onion powder will also enhance the fish's flavour and give it a lovely aroma.

If you're looking for something more specific, try a maple Dijon glaze by mixing one tablespoon of Dijon mustard with one teaspoon of maple syrup, or brush the salmon with teriyaki sauce in the last couple of minutes of cooking. For a sweet and smoky flavour, swap the paprika for half a teaspoon of smoked paprika and add half a teaspoon of brown sugar. If you like your salmon with a bit of a kick, a drizzle of hot honey will add some heat and sweetness.

For an Asian-inspired flavour, marinate the salmon in a blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger before cooking. This will add flavour and help create a crispy outer crust. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Flipping the steaks

Some recipes recommend cooking the salmon for 15 minutes on 400 degrees, then opening the basket and turning the salmon over and adding the remaining marinade to the fish. It is then cooked for an additional 2-3 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

If you are cooking a 6-ounce salmon fillet, the cooking time is 6 minutes. Depending on the make and model of your air fryer, you may need to cook it a little longer. If you are cooking salmon steaks, the cooking time is 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked and flaky.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cut. Therefore, it is recommended to keep an eye on the clock to avoid overcooking the salmon.

Serving suggestions

Salmon is a fatty fish that can handle bold flavours, so don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and sides.

For a simple side, try roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes. If you're after something more starchy, roasted potatoes and carrots, roasted fingerling potatoes, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, or a warm roasted purple potato salad would all be delicious options.

If you're looking for something lighter, a garden salad, steamed vegetables, or a rice dish like dill rice or Haitian black rice would be perfect. You could also try air-frying some vegetables with the salmon, such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or broccoli.

For a more complex flavour profile, try a citrus-based sauce or pesto, or top your salmon with avocado slices for added creaminess and healthy fats. You could also try a sweet chilli sauce, honey soy sauce, or a lemon herb sauce.

If you're feeling creative, try marinating the salmon in a blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger before cooking, or experiment with different spices like peri peri, Cajun seasoning, or curry powder.

Remember, salmon is best served when it's had a few minutes to rest, so the juices can redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavourful bite.

Frequently asked questions