Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Salmon: Fresh fillets that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and provide a tender texture when cooked.

Olive oil: Used to brush the salmon, adding moisture and helping the spices adhere.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory flavor to the salmon.

Paprika: Provides a mild, sweet peppery taste and a vibrant color.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.

Pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth to the seasoning.

To ensure your salmon fillets cook evenly in the air fryer, make sure they are of similar thickness. If one fillet is significantly thicker than the other, it may require a few extra minutes of cooking time. Additionally, pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before brushing with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere better and to achieve a crispier exterior.

• salmon - Substitute with trout: Trout has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative for air frying.

• salmon - Substitute with tilapia: Tilapia is a mild-flavored fish that cooks well in an air fryer, though it is less fatty than salmon.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for air frying.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is another high smoke point oil that works well for air frying and has a light flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense garlic flavor, though you may need to use a bit more.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick, but use less as it is much hotter than paprika.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika provides a similar flavor with an added smoky depth.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add moisture.

• pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, often used in lighter-colored dishes.

• Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the fish soggy.
• Place the cooled salmon fillets in an airtight container. If stacking multiple fillets, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, wrap each salmon fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped fillets in a resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness. Frozen salmon can be stored for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain quality and safety.
• Reheat the salmon in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to retain the crispy texture.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

• Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.

• Use a skillet to reheat the salmon. Add a splash of olive oil or a small pat of butter to the pan. Heat over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally, until the salmon is warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave the salmon for a quick reheat. Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Reheat in the air fryer for a crispy finish. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges.

• Steam the salmon for a gentle reheat. Place the salmon in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the salmon tender.

• Air fryer: A countertop appliance that circulates hot air to cook food quickly and evenly, perfect for achieving a crispy exterior on the salmon.

• Brush: Used to apply olive oil evenly on the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated for cooking.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to season the salmon perfectly.

• Tongs: Useful for placing the salmon fillets into the air fryer basket and removing them once cooked without breaking them apart.

• Fork: Needed to check if the salmon is cooked through by flaking it gently.

• Plate: To hold the seasoned salmon fillets before placing them in the air fryer and to serve the cooked salmon once done.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer while you season the salmon to save time.

Use a brush: Use a brush to quickly and evenly coat the salmon fillets with olive oil.

Mix spices ahead: Prepare a mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in advance for quick seasoning.

Cook multiple fillets: If your air fryer is large enough, cook multiple salmon fillets at once to save time on future meals.

Check doneness early: Start checking the salmon at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking and save time.