Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cooking salmon in the air fryer is a game-changer. It ensures a moist, flaky interior with a perfectly crispy exterior, all without the need for excessive oil. The marinade infuses the fish with a delightful umami flavor, complemented by a hint of sweetness. This dish is not only delicious but also aligns with various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and dairy-free options.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- ½ tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey (or preferred sweetener)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (or sesame oil)
Directions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, onion powder, garlic powder, and sesame seeds.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side up on a non-stick tray or pan.
- Drizzle the marinade over the fillets, ensuring even coverage.
- Let the salmon sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket.
- Pour the remaining marinade over the fillets.
- Air fry for approximately 7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the marinade for added freshness.
- Citrus Zest: Include lemon or orange zest in the marinade to introduce a citrusy note.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to maintain its texture.
FAQs
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and cooking.
What can I serve with air fryer salmon?
This salmon pairs well with roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener of your choice.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and high in protein, making it suitable for a keto diet.
Can I cook multiple fillets at once?
Yes, depending on the size of your air fryer, you can cook multiple fillets. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.
Do I need to flip the salmon during cooking?
No, flipping is not necessary. Cooking skin-side down ensures a crispy exterior.
Can I use skinless salmon fillets?
Yes, you can use skinless fillets, but the skin helps retain moisture and adds crispiness.
How can I add more flavor to the marinade?
Consider adding minced garlic, grated ginger, or a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Salmon recipe is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish offers a delicious way to enjoy salmon.
Print
Air Fryer Salmon
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Air Fryer Salmon recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Marinated in a sweet and savory mix of soy sauce, honey, and sesame, the salmon turns out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying moist and flaky on the inside. Ready in just 17 minutes, it’s a high-protein, low-calorie meal ideal for any occasion, including a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat.
Ingredients
2 salmon fillets
2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
½ tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey (or preferred sweetener)
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp sesame seeds (or sesame oil)
Instructions
-
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, onion powder, garlic powder, and sesame seeds.
-
Place salmon fillets skin-side up on a non-stick tray or pan.
-
Drizzle the marinade over the salmon, ensuring even coverage.
-
Let the salmon sit for 5–10 minutes to marinate.
-
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
-
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
-
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket and pour the remaining marinade over them.
-
Air fry for 7 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
Variations: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the marinade for extra freshness.
Storage: Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to preserve texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
