Cooking salmon in an air fryer is quick and convenient. This method allows you to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. Salmon is not only delicious but also healthy, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins. Its short cooking time makes it an easy and nutritious choice for any meal.

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Fish slice or regular spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs (optional)

Recommended Ingredients for Cooking Salmon in an Air Fryer

• Fresh salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt
• Pepper
• Optional: lemon slices, fresh herbs (dill, parsley), garlic

Choosing the Right Salmon

• Fresh vs. Frozen Salmon: Decide whether to use fresh or frozen salmon. Both can yield excellent results, but fresh salmon may offer a more delicate flavour, while frozen can be more convenient.
• How to Select Fresh Salmon at the Market: Look for salmon with bright, clear eyes (if buying whole), a firm texture, and a mild, fresh scent. The flesh should be vibrant and moist, not dull or dry.
• Different Types of Salmon (Atlantic, Sockeye, King) and Their Flavours: Atlantic salmon tends to be milder and fattier, Sockeye has a rich, robust flavour, and King salmon is known for its buttery texture and high fat content.

Preparing the Salmon

• Thawing (if using frozen):
  • Instructions for Safe Thawing in the Refrigerator: Place frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly. For quicker thawing, place the sealed salmon in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
• Rinsing and Drying:
  • Rinse under Cold Water and Pat Dry with Kitchen Paper: Gently rinse the salmon under cold water and pat it dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture.
• Seasoning:
  • Season Both Sides with Salt and Pepper: Ensure the salmon is evenly seasoned on both sides.
  • Optional: Marinating with Lemon, Herbs, or Garlic: For additional flavour, consider marinating the salmon with lemon juice, fresh herbs like dill, or minced garlic before cooking.

Cooking Methods

Method 1: Simple Air-Fried Salmon

• Preheating the Air Fryer:
  • Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes.
• Cooking the Salmon:
  • Lightly brush the salmon with olive oil or melted butter.
  • Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
  • Cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Method 2: Butter-Basted Air-Fried Salmon

• Preheating the Air Fryer:
  • Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes.
• Cooking the Salmon:
  • Melt a generous amount of butter and brush it over the salmon fillets.
  • Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
  • Cook for 7-10 minutes, basting with additional melted butter halfway through the cooking time.
• Enhancing Flavour:
  • Optional: Add minced garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the butter before basting for added flavour.

Method 3: Lemon and Herb Infused Air-Fried Salmon

• Preheating the Air Fryer:
  • Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3-5 minutes.
• Cooking the Salmon:
  • Lightly brush the salmon with olive oil or melted butter.
  • Place salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
  • Add lemon slices and fresh herbs on top of the salmon fillets.
  • Cook for 7-10 minutes, basting with the flavoured oil/butter halfway through.

Tips and Tricks

• How to Prevent Salmon from Sticking to the Basket: Lightly oil the air fryer basket or line it with parchment paper.
• Importance of Not Overcrowding the Basket: Leave space between the fillets to ensure even cooking.
• Adjusting Cooking Time Based on Thickness of the Fillet: Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes, while thinner fillets may cook more quickly.
• Tips for Achieving Crispy Skin: Ensure the skin is dry before cooking and cook skin-side down for the majority of the time.
• How to Avoid Overcooking: Check the salmon a minute or two before the suggested cooking time ends.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairing Ideas:
  • Salmon pairs beautifully with various vegetables, grains, and salads. Consider serving it alongside roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a selection of seasonal vegetables for a vibrant and nutritious meal. Quinoa, wild rice, or couscous make excellent grain choices that complement the rich flavour of salmon. A fresh, crisp salad with ingredients like rocket, cherry tomatoes, and avocado can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savoury fish.
• Sauce Suggestions:
  • Enhance your salmon dish with a flavourful sauce. A classic dill sauce, made with fresh dill, yoghurt, and lemon juice, adds a zesty, herbal note that complements the fish beautifully. Garlic butter sauce, with its rich and aromatic profile, creates a decadent pairing. Lemon butter sauce, combining the tang of lemon with the richness of butter, provides a bright and luxurious finish to the dish.
• Plating Tips:
  • For an attractive presentation, place the salmon fillet in the centre of the plate, slightly tilted on a bed of grains or vegetables. Drizzle the chosen sauce artfully over the top and around the plate. Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a pop of colour. Adding a lemon wedge on the side not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a convenient way for diners to add a burst of fresh flavour.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Salmon: Keep a close eye on the salmon towards the end of the cooking time to avoid dryness.
• Not Preheating the Air Fryer Properly: Ensure the air fryer is fully preheated before cooking for optimal results.
• Using Too Much or Too Little Oil: A light brushing of oil is sufficient; too much can cause the salmon to become greasy, while too little may lead to dryness.

How to Cook Salmon in an Air Fryer FAQs

• How do I know when salmon is done?

To determine if salmon is cooked perfectly in an air fryer, look for several key indicators. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork, yet retain a slight translucence in the centre for a moist, tender texture. A meat thermometer is a useful tool: salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Additionally, the exterior should be golden and crisp, particularly if you’ve brushed it with oil or butter.

• Can I cook salmon without oil or butter?

Yes, you can cook salmon without oil or butter, especially if you’re seeking a healthier option or catering to dietary restrictions. The air fryer is particularly effective for cooking salmon without added fats. Alternatively, you can use a small amount of broth or a squeeze of lemon juice to help keep the salmon moist and flavourful.

• What should I do if the salmon starts to fall apart?

If your salmon starts to fall apart during cooking, there are a few strategies to help salvage it. First, handle the fish gently and use a wide, flat spatula to transfer it from the air fryer basket, minimising the risk of breaking. If it does begin to fall apart, consider using the flaked pieces in a different preparation, such as mixing into a salad, pasta, or making salmon fishcakes. Ensuring that your air fryer is properly preheated can also help maintain the integrity of the fillet during cooking.

Conclusion

Cooking salmon in an air fryer offers a quick and versatile method, producing delicious, healthful results. Experiment with various seasonings and cooking techniques to find your preferred flavours and textures. For perfect air-fried salmon, ensure your air fryer is preheated, use a gentle touch when handling the fish, and monitor doneness with a meat thermometer. With these tips, you’ll master the art of air-fried salmon, creating delightful meals every time.