Introduction
Salmon is a nutrient-rich and delicious fish that's beloved across the world for its rich flavour and versatility in cooking. Using an air fryer, we can create a perfectly moist piece of salmon that's also crispy on the outside without any extra oil. This recipe is perfect for those who want a quick, healthy meal without sacrificing taste.
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Air fryers have become a popular kitchen gadget due to their ability to mimic the results of deep frying with far less oil. The rapid circulation of hot air results in that desired crispy texture, making them an ideal option for cooking salmon.
- Healthier Cooking: Air frying reduces the amount of oil needed, cutting down on fat intake while keeping the salmon flavorful.
- Quick and Efficient: No need to preheat an oven, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Easy Clean-up: Most air fryer baskets are easily removable and dishwasher safe.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a crispy exterior.
- Season the salmon: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the salmon fillets.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap. It’s best to leave some space between them to allow the air to circulate and cook the salmon evenly.
- Cook the salmon: Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets. Ideally, the internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F).
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips for Perfect Air Fried Salmon
- Check for doneness: Since different air fryers have varying power levels, it’s important to check the salmon partway through cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Skin-on or skin-off: Both can be used, but if you leave the skin on, place the salmon skin-side down in the basket to make it easier to remove after cooking.
- Herbs and spices: Feel free to customise the spice mix with your favourite herbs such as dill or cilantro.
Conclusion
This air fryer salmon recipe provides a delicious, healthy meal option that fits perfectly into a busy schedule without compromising on taste or quality. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, this method makes it easy to enjoy succulent salmon with minimal effort.