9 Best Air Fryer Salmon Recipes for Deliciously Healthy Dinners

Air fryers are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to cook healthy meals quickly and easily. One of my favorite ingredients to prepare in an air fryer is salmon, which is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. In this article, I will share nine of the best air fryer salmon recipes that you can try in your kitchen.

Cooking salmon in an air fryer offers a delightful combination of crispy texture and moist fillet. These recipes make it simple to enjoy this nutritious fish without spending too much time in the kitchen. Each recipe highlights different flavors and techniques, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Soy-Glazed Air Fryer Salmon

Soy-glazed air fryer salmon is a tasty dish that combines savory soy sauce with the rich flavor of salmon. This recipe is simple and quick, making it a great choice for any meal.

To make this dish, I start by mixing soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. This creates a flavorful marinade that enhances the salmon.

Preparation is easy. Here are the basic steps:

1. Marinate: I place the salmon fillets in the marinade for about 30 minutes.
2. Preheat: I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Cook: I place the marinated salmon in the air fryer basket. I cook it for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
4. Check: I make sure the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

This dish pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables. It’s a quick way to enjoy a nutritious meal with minimal effort.

2. Honey Mustard Air Fryer Salmon

Honey mustard air fryer salmon is a flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard. This recipe is simple and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Making this dish is easy and requires minimal preparation. I love that it takes only about 15 minutes from start to finish. The air fryer cooks the salmon evenly and helps it stay moist.

Here are the steps to prepare honey mustard air fryer salmon:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard.
3. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the honey mustard mixture over the top of each fillet.
5. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve the salmon with your favorite side dishes for a delicious meal.

3. Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Salmon

Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Salmon is a delicious and easy dish I love to prepare. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the crunchy texture of Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a quick dinner.

To make this dish, I start by preheating my air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, I prepare the salmon fillets. I season them with salt and pepper, then coat them with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Next, I lightly spray the fillets with olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking. I place the salmon in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

I set the timer for about 8-10 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of the fillets. I check for doneness by looking for a golden-brown crust and ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

This Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Salmon is not only simple but also healthy and satisfying. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

4. Teriyaki Air Fryer Salmon

Teriyaki air fryer salmon is a tasty dish featuring salmon marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. The sauce usually includes soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. This recipe is quick to make and packed with flavor.

To prepare, I start by mixing the teriyaki marinade. I combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of mirin, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar in a bowl. I whisk it until the sugar dissolves.

Next, I place the salmon fillets in the marinade. I let them soak for at least 15-30 minutes for the best flavor. While the salmon marinates, I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

I take the salmon out of the marinade and place it in the air fryer basket. I cook it for about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. I check for doneness by ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Once the salmon is ready, I can serve it hot. This dish pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables. It’s a simple and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights.

5. Lemon Dill Air Fryer Salmon

Lemon Dill Air Fryer Salmon is a simple and tasty dish that brightens any meal. The lemon adds a fresh flavor, while the dill offers an aromatic touch.

Making this recipe is easy. I use fresh or dried dill, lemon juice, and salmon fillets. It takes just a few minutes to prepare and cook.

To start, I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, I season the salmon. I mix lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Then, I coat the salmon fillets evenly with this mixture.

Next, I place the salmon in the air fryer basket. I cook it for about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.

This dish pairs well with vegetables or a light salad. It’s a healthy option that I enjoy for a quick dinner or lunch.

6. Maple Glazed Air Fryer Salmon

Maple glazed air fryer salmon is a delicious dish that combines the richness of salmon with the sweetness of maple syrup. This recipe creates a flavorful, nutritious meal that is quick to prepare.

I find this recipe easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer cooks the salmon evenly while giving it a nice glaze.

To make maple glazed air fryer salmon, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
3. Place your salmon fillet in a shallow dish and pour the maple mixture over it. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
4. Lightly grease the air fryer basket. Place the salmon in the basket, skin side down.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

The result is a tasty, healthy dinner in no time. Enjoy!

7. Garlic Butter Air Fryer Salmon

Garlic butter air fryer salmon is a delicious way to prepare salmon with a rich flavor. This dish combines the freshness of salmon with savory garlic and butter, creating a tasty meal.

Making garlic butter air fryer salmon is easy and quick. It takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. I find it perfect for busy weeknights or when I want a healthy meal without much hassle.

To prepare this dish, I start by gathering my ingredients: salmon fillets, butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Here’s how I make it:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix in 2 cloves of minced garlic.
3. Brush the garlic butter mixture over the salmon fillets.
4. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for about 8-10 minutes.

I love how the air fryer gives the salmon a nice crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This meal pairs well with vegetables or rice for a complete dinner.

8. Cajun Spiced Air Fryer Salmon

Cajun spiced air fryer salmon is a dish that combines the rich flavor of salmon with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine. I enjoy this recipe for its simplicity and taste.

Making this salmon is quite easy. I prepare the spices beforehand and then season the salmon fillets. It usually takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.

Here’s how I make it:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Rub the spice blend onto the salmon fillets evenly.
4. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

The result is a flavorful, moist salmon that pairs well with a side salad or rice. I love how the air fryer keeps the salmon tender while adding a slight crisp to the outside.

9. Pesto Air Fryer Salmon

Pesto Air Fryer Salmon is a flavorful and simple dish. I enjoy making it because it combines the richness of salmon with the fresh taste of pesto. This recipe is quick and ideal for any day of the week.

To prepare this dish, I start with a cooked salmon fillet. I then spread 2 tablespoons of quick basil pesto on top. Pesto adds a burst of flavor and complements the salmon perfectly.

Next, I preheat my air fryer to 400°F. I place the salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. Cooking it at this temperature ensures that the salmon turns out flaky and moist.

While cooking, I like to prepare a side dish. A simple salad or steamed vegetables pairs nicely with the salmon. This meal is not only tasty but also healthy, making it a great choice for dinner.

In just a few steps, I can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Pesto Air Fryer Salmon shows that cooking can be both easy and delightful.

What Are the Health Benefits of Air Fryer Salmon?

Cooking salmon in an air fryer not only enhances its flavor but also packs a punch with health benefits. I find that this method helps retain the nutritious qualities of salmon while keeping meals light and flavorful.

What Are the Nutritional Advantages of Air Fryer Salmon?

Salmon is known for its high nutritional value. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. These healthy fats can lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation.

In addition to omega-3s, salmon provides:

• High-quality protein: A 3-ounce serving typically contains about 22 grams. This is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamins and minerals: Salmon is an excellent source of B vitamins, especially B12, which supports energy production and brain health.

The air frying process helps maintain these nutrients while ensuring a delicious crust and moist inside.

How Does Air Fryer Cooking Keep Salmon Low in Calories?

Using an air fryer allows me to cook salmon with minimal oil, which is a significant advantage for those watching their calorie intake. Traditional frying methods often add unnecessary fats and calories.

Air frying salmon can cut down the cooking oil used, making it a healthier option.

For example, I often use only a light spray of olive oil, which is much lower in calories compared to deep frying. This makes air-fried salmon a smart choice for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty dish without compromising their diet.

Eating air fryer salmon can fit well into a balanced meal plan and support a healthy lifestyle.

What Are the Cooking Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon?

Getting the best results when cooking salmon in an air fryer requires attention to detail. Key factors include selecting the right cut, using flavorful seasonings, and cooking for the optimal time. Here are my tips for achieving delicious, perfectly cooked salmon.

How Do You Choose the Right Cut of Salmon for Air Frying?

When selecting salmon, I often choose between several cuts. The most popular options are:

• Fillet: Skin-on or skinless. Fillets are versatile and cook quickly.
• Steaks: These are thicker and have bones. They need slightly longer cooking times.
• Whole Fish: Best for special occasions, but requires more preparation.

For air frying, I recommend fillets. They not only cook evenly but also absorb marinades beautifully. Fresh salmon is preferable, but frozen works too if thawed properly.

What Are the Best Seasonings and Marinades for Air Fryer Salmon?

Seasoning can transform your salmon. I usually start with a simple base of salt and pepper.

For added flavor, I often use marinades. Here are a few ideas:

• Lemon and Dill: Fresh dill with lemon juice enhances the fish’s natural flavor.
• Garlic and Soy Sauce: This combination gives an umami twist.
• Honey and Mustard: A sweet and tangy option that caramelizes nicely.

I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes, but if you’re short on time, even 10 minutes can make a difference. Always pat dry before cooking to get that crispy texture.

What Are the Optimal Cooking Times for Air Fryer Salmon?

Timing in the air fryer is crucial for perfect salmon. Generally, I follow these guidelines:

• Fillet: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes.
• Steak: Cook at the same temperature but for 10-12 minutes.
• Whole Fish: Depending on the size, it may need 12-15 minutes.

Using a meat thermometer is helpful. I aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remember, the salmon will continue to cook slightly after removing it from the fryer, so aim for slightly lower if you like it a bit less done.