Air Fryer Salmon: Quick, Healthy, and Delicious

Salmon is a versatile, nutritious fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways, but cooking it in an air fryer might just become your new favorite method. This Air Fryer Salmon recipe promises tender, juicy fillets with a delightful herb seasoning. The air fryer cooks the salmon quickly and evenly, giving you a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Pair it with your favorite greens and grains for a balanced, delicious dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Salmon:

   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispy exterior.
   • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.

2. Season the Salmon:

   • Brush the olive oil and herb mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.

4. Cook the Salmon:

   • Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if they have skin.
   • Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. Serve:

   • Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
   • Serve with lemon wedges and pair with your choice of greens and grains, such as a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice.

Preparation Time:

• Active preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 10 minutes

Servings:

This recipe serves 4.

FAQs:

• Can I use frozen salmon fillets? Yes, you can cook frozen salmon fillets in the air fryer. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and make sure the fillets reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

• What other seasonings can I use? Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. Options like dill, parsley, or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat can be great additions.

• How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque.

• Can I cook other fish in the air fryer? Absolutely! This method works well with other types of fish such as tilapia, cod, or halibut. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

• What should I serve with air fryer salmon? Pair your salmon with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a grain like quinoa or rice for a complete and balanced meal.

Conclusion:

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone who loves quick, delicious, and healthy meals. This method ensures perfectly cooked fillets every time, with a flavorful herb seasoning that enhances the natural taste of the salmon. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this Air Fryer Salmon recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the simplicity of preparation and the satisfaction of a nutritious, gourmet-quality dish. Happy cooking!