This Air-Fried Salmon Filets recipe delivers buttery, flaky salmon cooked in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option.
Using the air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. This method is ideal for cooking frozen salmon, making it one of the best salmon air fryer recipes for busy cooks.
Overview of Air-Fried Salmon Filets
Air-Fried Salmon Filets offer a delightful combination of flavor and convenience. This dish is perfect for those seeking quick and healthy meal options without sacrificing taste.
With a cooking time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon moist and flaky inside, making it a standout choice among salmon air fryer recipes.
Preparation Steps for Perfect Salmon
To achieve the best results, start by preparing your salmon filets. If using frozen salmon, it’s essential to thaw them properly, either in the refrigerator or under cold water.
Once thawed, pat the filets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy texture when cooked in the air fryer.
Seasoning for Flavor
Seasoning the salmon is a vital step in enhancing its natural flavors. Brush both sides of the filets with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over them.
This simple seasoning mix not only adds flavor but also contributes to the beautiful golden-brown color of the salmon when air-fried.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is an important step that should not be overlooked. Set it to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to heat for about 5 minutes.
Once preheated, place the salmon filets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the filets. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork, ensuring a perfectly cooked meal.
Serving Suggestions
After cooking, remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve it immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a burst of freshness and color.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any salmon dinner ideas. Whether you enjoy it with a salad, steamed vegetables, or rice, the air-fried salmon will shine as the star of the meal.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Air-Fried Salmon Filets are not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving contains approximately 280 calories, with a good balance of protein and healthy fats.
Incorporating salmon into your diet offers numerous health benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying flavorful meals.
Simple Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
These salmon filets are seasoned and air-fried to perfection, resulting in a delicious dish that pairs well with various sides. This recipe takes about 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 2 people.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon filets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Salmon: If using frozen salmon, thaw it in the refrigerator or under cold water. Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels.
- Season the Filets: Brush both sides of the salmon with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon filets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the filets, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve with lemon wedges and fresh herbs, if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 filets
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 0g