Dinnertime blues got you down? Craving something delicious and healthy, but short on time? Look no further than this Air Fryer Salmon recipe! Ready in under 10 minutes, this dish is a weeknight lifesaver, packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Salmon:
- Fast & Fuss-Free: Ditch the preheating and messy stovetop splatters! This recipe utilizes the magic of your air fryer for a quick and convenient way to cook salmon.
- Flavorful & Healthy: Salmon is a fantastic source of lean protein and healthy fats. Seasoned simply and cooked to perfection, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.
- Endless Possibilities: This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create endless flavor combinations.
Ingredients (Serves 2):
- 2 Salmon fillets (around 4-6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper, to taste
- Optional Seasonings (choose one or a combination):
- Garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme
- Lemon zest and dried dill
- Cajun seasoning
Instructions:
- Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This ensures even browning on the skin.
- Seasoning Magic: Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add your chosen additional seasonings at this point.
- Preheat (Optional): While some air fryers don’t require preheating, consult your specific model’s instructions. Generally, preheating for a few minutes can help achieve a crispier crust.
- Air Fry Time! Place the seasoned salmon fillets in your air fryer basket, skin-side down, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets.
- Flaky Perfection: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve & Enjoy! Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and enjoy immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Crowd the Basket: For optimal air circulation and a crispy finish, ensure there’s enough space between the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets and your specific air fryer model. Start checking for doneness at the 8-minute mark.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Frozen salmon can be used in a pinch, but make sure it’s thawed completely before air frying.
Conclusion:
This Air Fryer Salmon recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a restaurant-worthy salmon dish on the table in under 10 minutes. So ditch the takeout menus and embrace the convenience and deliciousness of air-fried salmon!