why make this recipe
Making Easy Air Fryer Salmon is a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a nutritious choice. The air fryer cooks the salmon quickly, giving it a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick family dinners.
how to make Easy Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (5–8 oz. each)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- Pinch of pepper
Directions:
- Combine the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the rub. Pat it generously on both sides of the salmon fillets.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and place the salmon fillets in the air fryer. (See notes if you don’t have a preheat option.)
- Air fry for 7-9 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the tops are caramelized.
- Dish and serve hot. Enjoy!
how to serve Easy Air Fryer Salmon
Serve the Easy Air Fryer Salmon with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A squeeze of lemon on top adds a nice touch. You can also pair it with a light sauce, like tartar sauce or a yogurt dill sauce, if desired.
how to store Easy Air Fryer Salmon
If you have leftover salmon, allow it to cool before storing it. Place the salmon in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the salmon for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place it back in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.
tips to make Easy Air Fryer Salmon
- Make sure the salmon fillets are evenly coated with the rub for the best flavor.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillets for perfect doneness.
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in the rub for 30 minutes before air frying.
variation
Feel free to change up the seasonings! You can use lemon zest, dill, or your favorite spice blends to customize the flavor of the salmon. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rub.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
While it’s best to preheat for even cooking, if your air fryer doesn’t have that option, you can directly cook without preheating. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my salmon is overcooked?
If your salmon gets overcooked, it can become dry. To avoid this in the future, pay close attention to the cooking time and consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F for salmon).
Easy Air Fryer Salmon
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and healthy recipe for salmon cooked in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (5–8 oz. each)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- Pinch of pepper
Instructions
- Combine the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the rub. Pat it generously on both sides of the salmon fillets.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and place the salmon fillets in the air fryer.
- Air fry for 7-9 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the tops are caramelized.
- Dish and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
Make sure the salmon fillets are evenly coated with the rub for the best flavor. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillets for perfect doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
