Air-Fried Salmon: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Air fryers are a quick and easy way to cook salmon, with most recipes taking under 15 minutes. The air fryer cooks salmon to perfection, leaving the inside tender and flaky, and the outside with a gorgeous outer crust. The air fryer also prevents the smell of salmon from lingering in the house for days after cooking.

To cook salmon in an air fryer, simply brush the fillets with olive oil or butter, add a spice rub, and cook for around 10 minutes.

Choosing the right air fryer

There are a few things to consider when choosing the right air fryer for you. Firstly, you'll want to think about the size. Air fryers can be bulky, so if you want it on your countertop, be sure to measure the space you have available. Also, consider how many people you'll be cooking for. A 3.7L air fryer can easily make enough for four people, but you may need a bigger or smaller one depending on your household.

Next, you'll want to think about the type of air fryer you want. There are three main types: classic air fryers, air fryer ovens, and air fryer lids. Classic air fryers are the most common and have a removable basket that can usually be washed in the dishwasher. They come in different shapes, such as egg-shaped or square, with the latter providing more cooking space. Air fryer ovens are larger and can fit more food, but they also take up more space. Air fryer lids are for those with limited space; they are added to an instant pot or pressure cooker to turn it into an air fryer.

You should also consider your budget. Air fryers can cost anywhere from $30 to multiple hundred dollars. Typically, the more expensive air fryers are larger and have more features, but you can still find a good-quality small air fryer for a lower price.

Lastly, think about the features that are important to you. Most air fryers have parts that can be washed in the dishwasher, but if this is a must-have for you, be sure to check that the model you're considering has dishwasher-safe parts. Also, look for safety features like auto-shutoff, and consider whether you want a timer or a digital display.

Prepping the salmon

Preparing salmon for the air fryer is a quick and easy process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Start by selecting salmon fillets that are similar in size and thickness, as this will ensure even cooking. If your salmon has skin, you can choose to keep it on or remove it. Keeping the skin on can help the fillets hold together better during cooking and may result in moister, flakier salmon.

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the seasonings adhere better to the fish.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

There are endless possibilities when it comes to seasoning salmon. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper, or get creative with various spice blends. Here are some seasoning options:

• Olive oil, garlic, and a salmon rub (a combination of paprika, thyme, brown sugar, salt, and pepper)
• Olive oil, pressed garlic, and a store-bought or homemade salmon rub
• Olive oil, garlic powder, chili pepper, coconut sugar, cilantro, salt, and pepper
• Olive oil, followed by a spice rub with garlic powder, chili pepper, coconut sugar, cilantro, salt, and pepper
• Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• Olive oil, followed by a spice blend with garlic powder, chili pepper, coconut sugar, cilantro, salt, and pepper

Generously apply your chosen seasonings to the salmon fillets, making sure to coat all sides evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer

If using an oven-type air fryer, line the basket or tray with aluminum foil and give it a light spray of non-stick cooking spray. This will make cleanup easier and help prevent the salmon from sticking.

If using a basket-type air fryer, simply spray the basket directly with cooking spray.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F (200°C). The preheating step is important as it helps the salmon develop a nice colour and crust.

Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 8-11 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. For 6-ounce fillets, 10 minutes should be sufficient.

To check for doneness, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the thickest part of the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C). The salmon should be opaque pink and easily flake apart with a fork when done.

Adding the mustard

For each salmon fillet, spread one teaspoon of mustard evenly in a thin layer. You can use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread the mustard.

Seasoning the salmon

Choose Your Seasonings

The beauty of seasoning salmon is that you can be creative and experiment with different combinations. You can opt for a simple approach with just salt and pepper, or go bold with a blend of spices. Here are some suggestions for seasonings to use:

• Salt and pepper: A classic combination that enhances the natural flavour of the salmon.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a deep, earthy, smoky flavour that pairs beautifully with salmon.
• Garlic powder: Gives a savoury boost to the dish.
• Brown sugar: Provides a touch of sweetness and helps the salmon caramelise.
• Honey: Another sweet option that also aids in caramelisation.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy, zesty kick to the salmon.
• Spicy kick: If you like it hot, try using Cajun seasoning or chilli pepper.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped dill, parsley, or cilantro on top for a fresh flavour.

Prepare the Salmon

Before you apply the seasonings, there are a few important steps to ensure the best results:

• Dry the salmon: Use paper towels to blot the salmon fillets dry. This helps the seasonings adhere better to the surface.
• Choose similar-sized fillets: This ensures even cooking, so all your fillets are done at the same time.
• Oil the salmon: Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the salmon fillets. This helps the seasonings stick and adds moisture to the fish.

Apply the Seasonings

Now for the fun part! Here's how to apply the seasonings like a pro:

• Rub the salmon: Use your fingers or a brush to gently rub the olive oil all over the surface of the fillets.
• Sprinkle the seasonings: Generously sprinkle your chosen combination of seasonings over the oiled salmon. Don't be shy; you want a nice, even coating.
• Massage the seasonings: Use your fingers to gently massage the seasonings into the salmon, ensuring they are well distributed and adhered to the fish.
• Add a final touch: If desired, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the seasoned salmon for a bright, tangy finish.

Your salmon is now beautifully seasoned and ready for the air fryer! Remember, you can always adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!

Cooking the salmon

There are a few steps to follow to ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Firstly, you'll want to ensure your salmon fillets are blotted dry with a paper towel so that the spices adhere better. You should also try to choose pieces of salmon fillet that are similar in size so they cook evenly and finish at the same time.

Next, you'll want to season the salmon. You can use a variety of seasonings, but a popular option is to coat the salmon in olive oil, followed by a spice rub. A simple spice rub can be made by combining smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, thyme and brown sugar. You can also add pressed garlic to bring out more flavour.

Once your salmon is seasoned, you'll want to preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F. If you're using an oven-type air fryer, you should line the baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray. If you're using a basket air fryer, just spray the basket with cooking spray.

Now it's time to cook the salmon! If you're using an oven air fryer, cook the salmon for 15 minutes at 400°F. If you're using a basket air fryer, cook it on one side for 10 minutes, then the other side for 7 minutes. The cook time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillet, so be sure to check it with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F.

Once your salmon is cooked, it's ready to serve! It goes well with starchy sides like creamy mashed potatoes or tortellini alfredo.

Frequently asked questions