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Air fryer Salmon is the Perfect Quick Dinner

Whether you’re new to air frying or already a fan, this method is a game-changer, especially for those nights when you need a healthy dinner on the table fast. Cooking salmon in the air fryer from frozen not only saves you time but also ensures that your salmon stays moist and delicious without any extra effort. Let’s dive into why this technique is an absolute must-try.


Cooking salmon in the air fryer has become my go-to dinner hack for busy nights. Why? Because it’s simple, fast, and foolproof. The air fryer cooks salmon evenly and efficiently, giving you that perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. Plus, you can cook your salmon straight from frozen, which means no more planning ahead to defrost—just grab a couple of fillets from the freezer, season, and you’re good to go!

One of the best things about making Air Fryer Salmon is the versatility of flavours. In this recipe, I’ve gone with a simple yet flavourful blend of Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder. This combination adds a tangy, smoky kick to the rich taste of the salmon, making it a crowd-pleaser for any dinner table. Serve it up with some crispy air-fried green beans and a side of steamed rice, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air fryer Salmon

  • Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with any cooking method, preheating is key to achieving even cooking. This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and gets that delicious crispy skin without drying out.
  • Don’t Skip the Marinade: The Dijon mustard in the marinade not only adds flavour but also helps to keep the salmon moist as it cooks. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note that pairs beautifully with the natural richness of the salmon.
  • Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: While 15 minutes is a good starting point, the exact cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. To check for doneness, use a fork to gently flake the fish. If it flakes easily and the flesh is opaque, your salmon is ready.
  • Use High-Quality Salmon: For the best results, opt for wild-caught salmon if you can. It tends to be more flavourful and has a firmer texture compared to farmed salmon. Plus, it’s a healthier choice with higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids.
Serving Suggestions for Air fryer Salmon

Air fryer Salmon pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for dinner. Here are a few ideas:

  • Rice or Quinoa: Steamed rice or fluffy quinoa are excellent choices to serve alongside your salmon. Their mild flavour lets the salmon shine, and they soak up any extra marinade beautifully.
  • Crispy Vegetables: Green beans are a classic pairing, but you can also try asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Just toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry them alongside your salmon for a quick and easy side.
  • Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette can complement the richness of the salmon, making your meal feel refreshing and balanced.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir pairs perfectly with salmon, cutting through its richness and enhancing its flavours.

Similar Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed making Air fryer Salmon, here are a few more air fryer recipes that are just as quick and delicious:

And there you have it—your new favourite weeknight dinner, Air fryer Salmon! Give it a try, and don’t forget to take a picture of your beautiful creation. Share it with me @steph_cooks_stuff. I can’t wait to see how it turns out! 😍

Salmon in air fryer
Steph de Sousa

Air fryer Salmon

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5 from 1 vote
This Air fryer Salmon is a fast, hassle-free way to cook salmon in the air fryer. Perfectly tender and flaky, this recipe is ideal for easy, flavourful weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe
prep time Prep Time 5 minutes
setting time Cook Time
 15 minutes
total time Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Recipes
Cuisine: Australian
Calories: 283
dish icon Ingredients Equipmentcook book Methodhealt Nutritionvideo icon Video

Ingredients
 

  • 4 frozen salmon pieces
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Shake of garlic and onion powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • 500 g beans
  • Pre-cooked rice sachet
  • Olive oil

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Mix together the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, onion and garlic powder with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mixy mixy!
  2. Brush the mixture all over your frozen salmon, except the skin.
  3. Pop your beans in your air fryer basket, add a tbsp of olive oil, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Shakey shakey!
  4. Place the salmon skin side down in your air fryer and cook both your beans and Salmon at 200°C for 15 mins. Flip and shake halfway through.
  5. Serve with steamed rice for a delicious, dilemma-free dinner.

Nutrition

Calories: 283kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 38gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 94mgSodium: 124mgPotassium: 1036mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 343IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Video

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh salmon instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh salmon, reduce the cooking time by about 3-5 minutes. Just make sure to keep an eye on it and check for doneness with a fork.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

No problem! Regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper will work just fine. The flavour will be slightly different, but your salmon will still be delicious.
How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To keep your salmon from sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or use a piece of parchment paper underneath the salmon. This will also make cleanup easier.
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