Air frying is one of the best ways to prepare perfectly cooked and tender salmon. The even circulation of hot air brings out just the right amount of moisture and flavor from the fillets. You’ll get an end result of salmon that’s crispy on the outside and light and flaky on the inside.
Compared to baking, grilling, and pan-frying salmon, air frying is less time-consuming and leaves you with no oil splatters or grease to take care of. It’s also the healthier option, as additional oil or fat isn’t necessary.
In this guide, we’ll show you a simple yet satisfying salmon recipe with suggested seasonings and sides. Learn how long to cook salmon in air fryer at 375°F and many other cooking tips!
Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Try this quick and easy salmon recipe to come up with moist and tender salmon in just a few minutes! Feel free to switch up the flavor by using a different marinade, seasoning, or side dish every time you make it.
Ingredients:
- 2 to 4 salmon fillets (thawed, 4 to 6 oz each)
- Vegetable oil (optional)
Suggested Salmon Seasonings and Marinades:
- Salt and pepper
- Cajun seasoning
- Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce
- Olive oil and lemon
- Sugar-free maple syrup
- Sesame seeds
- Brown sugar
- Smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic
Instructions:
- Start by seasoning your salmon with your choice of ingredients or marinade.
- Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can lightly brush the air fryer basket with vegetable oil if you prefer.
- Place the salmon fillets in your air fryer basket with the skin side facing downwards.
- Cook at 375°F for 8–12 minutes, depending on the fillets’ thickness. There’s no need to flip them. A good indication that they’re done is when the thickest fillet part reaches 145° in internal temperature.
- Serve with your choice of side dishes. Enjoy!
Suggested Side Dishes and Sauces:
- Smoked vegetables, such as potatoes, broccoli, and asparagus
- Light and refreshing salads, like cucumber, coleslaw, or avocado salad
- Cauliflower rice, white rice, or mashed potatoes
- Spicy noodles or fettuccine Alfredo
- Cilantro sauce, honey garlic sauce, sour cream sauce
Tips for Air Frying Salmon
Here are some additional tips to help you whip up the best-tasting salmon fillets possible:
- Space your salmon fillets properly and avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket.
- Thaw out your frozen salmon before putting it in your air fryer for better flavor and texture.
- Leave the skin on your salmon, as it prevents the fillets from overcooking and drying out.
- Choose salmon fillets that have even thickness to get evenly cooked results.
- If you want to use frozen salmon, increase the cooking time by 2–7 minutes.
- If you buy your salmon as a large fillet, carefully cut it into narrow strips that are perpendicular to the length of the fish.
- You can pat the salmon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Wrapping Up
Now you know how long to cook salmon in an air fryer at 375°F! Plus, you’re now familiar with the various sauces, side dishes, and seasonings you can use to put a twist on this delicious dish.
Remember to add this easy salmon recipe to your weekly menu, and don’t forget your air fryer, as it’s definitely a game changer when it comes to cooking salmon and other types of meat. Enjoy a fast preparation time, a healthy meal, and less mess when you’re done cooking!
