This tasty air fryer salmon is super simple to make and healthy too! With just a few seasonings, it comes out flaky and flavorful every time. Talk about a win-win!
I love how quick it is! Just season, pop it in the air fryer, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Plus, no extra oil means it’s lighter on the tummy! 🐟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for great flavor and texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, try trout or cod. They’re both flavorful and work well in the air fryer, too.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can swap it with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer. Just keep in mind that butter has a lower smoke point.
Garlic Powder: A must for that delicious garlic flavor! If you’re out of garlic powder, you can use fresh minced garlic. Just adjust the quantity since fresh garlic can be stronger.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can work as substitutes, but they won’t add the same smokiness.
Fresh Parsley: It adds a fresh touch to the dish. If you don’t have parsley, try dill or cilantro for a different flavor. You can also use dried herbs if fresh isn’t available.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon in an air fryer is quick and can yield perfect results if you follow these steps. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat: Always preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the salmon evenly.
- Dry the Fillets: Pat the fillets dry. Removing excess moisture allows the seasoning to stick better and helps achieve a nice texture.
- Single Layer: Arrange the salmon in a single layer in the air fryer. Crowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C). This is the safe cooking temperature and ensures it’s flaky and tender.
By following these tips, you’ll get delicious, perfectly cooked salmon every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy & Healthy Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious air fryer salmon can be prepared in about 5 minutes and cooked in 8-10 minutes, giving you a total time of around 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick, healthy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is important because it helps the salmon cook evenly and get that nice, crispy texture.
2. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will give your salmon a delicious taste!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better. Then, brush both sides of each fillet with the seasoning mixture you just made.
4. Air Fry the Salmon:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching each other to allow for even cooking. Close the air fryer and cook for 8-10 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh flavor. Enjoy your easy and healthy air fryer salmon!
Can I Use Other Types of Fish in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use other firm fish like trout, cod, or tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil, melted coconut oil, or even canola oil. Each will lend a slightly different flavor, but they will all work well for cooking the salmon.
How Should I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help retain its crispy texture.
Can I Make the Seasoning Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can mix up the seasoning blend ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a month. This makes it super convenient to whip up a quick air fryer salmon dinner!
