Welcome to the world of quick, delicious, and healthy meals with our favorite air fryer recipe: the Best Air Fryer Salmon.
This dish is not only packed with fatty acids that are beneficial for your health but also comes with a burst of flavors, thanks to the perfect blend of basic seasonings like garlic powder, black pepper, and a mustard mixture.
Plus, the optional bacon topping adds a touch of indulgence to this simple yet elegant dish. Whether you’re an air fryer novice or a seasoned pro, this easy recipe is about to become one of your favorite recipes for a healthy dinner or quick weeknight meals.
This Air Fryer Salmon is a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your home. The crispy skin, the juicy interior, and the flavorful marinade make this one of the best ways to enjoy salmon.
Plus, with the convenience of the air fryer, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in less than 20 minutes. So, why not give this recipe a try the next time you’re in the mood for a quick and satisfying meal?
It’s a great way to introduce a new way of cooking salmon to family dinners. Enjoy!
Common Questions About Best Air Fryer Salmon
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Salmon is Cooked to the Right Temperature?
The best way to ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection is to use an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the salmon. According to the FDA, salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
Do I Have to Remove the Salmon Skin?
No, the salmon skin can be left on. In fact, the hot air in the air fryer crisps up the skin nicely. If you prefer, you can remove the skin after cooking.
Can I Substitute the Maple Syrup?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar. You could also use brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Storage
Salmon is one of my absolute favorite foods. On top of that, I love being able to cook it in the air fryer!
Refrigerator
Leftover air fryer salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the air fryer again at a lower temperature, or heat it in a pan over medium heat to maintain its crispy skin.
Freezer
While it’s best to enjoy the salmon immediately after cooking, you can also freeze cooked salmon. Let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips
Sometimes salmon can take practice to get just right. My number one tip would be to keep trying if it doesn’t turn out exactly right the first time!
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Before applying your seasoning mix, pat the salmon dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and results in a crispier skin.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: For the best results, preheat your air fryer before adding the salmon. This helps achieve a crispy outside on the salmon.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Place the salmon filets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
- Check the Thickness: The thickness of the salmon can affect the cooking time. Thicker pieces will require more time, while thinner pieces will take less time.
Ingredients
I love what maple syrup does to a good salmon fillet. On top of that we’ve got bacon! Everything is better with bacon, right?
- Salmon fillet
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Maple syrup
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional Bacon Topping: bacon, maple syrup, brown sugar
- Garnish: green onions
How to Make the Best Air Fryer Salmon
Bacon Topping – if desired
- Cook the bacon until crisp. Remove and rough chop.
- Combine the cooked bacon, maple syrup, and brown sugar, in a small bowl. Toss to combine. Set aside.
Salmon
- In another small bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush it onto the salmon.
- Place it in the air fryer and cook at 400F for 10-13 minutes.
If serving with the bacon topping – spoon it over the top of the salmon and then garnish with green onions.
Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Best Air Fryer Salmon
The key factor here is that awesome air fryer! Make sure to have a good meat thermometer too.
What to Serve With the Best Air Fryer Salmon
Salmon is a versatile protein that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving your air fryer salmon with air fryer asparagus or air fryer potatoes for a delicious meal that’s prepared entirely in the air fryer. Alternatively, a simple salad or baked potato also pairs nicely.
Why You Should Make the Best Air Fryer Salmon
Well, the main reason would be the wonderful, juicy, scrumptious salmon!
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes little time to prepare and cook, making it a great option for busy weeknight meals.
- Healthy: Salmon is rich in healthy fats and protein, making this a nutritious choice.
- Versatile: This recipe can be tailored to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or toppings.
- Crispy Skin: Cooking salmon in the air fryer results in a deliciously crispy skin that’s a delight to eat.
Variations and Add-Ins for Best Air Fryer Salmon
Salmon is a meat you can really try different things with. Here are a few ideas to get you started!
- Different Seasonings: Try using soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or your favorite spices to change up the flavor.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice for the lemon juice for a different citrus note.
If you love this easy salmon recipe, you’re going to love these other air fryer recipes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!
More Great Salmon Recipes
If you love this recipe for salmon cooked in the air fryer as much as I do, please write a five-star review, and be sure to help me share on Facebook and Pinterest!
CONNECT WITH YUMMI HAUS!
Be sure to follow me on my social media, so you never miss a post!
Best Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
Optional Bacon Topping
- 4 strips bacon
- 2½ tbsp. maple syrup
- 1½ tbsp. brown sugar
Salmon:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 ½ tbsp. lemon juice
- 2 ½ tbsp maple syrup
- 1½ tbsp. dijon mustard
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 lb salmon fillet
Garnish – 2 green onions – diced
Instructions
Bacon Topping – if desired
- Cook the bacon until crisp. Remove and rough chop.
- Combine the cooked bacon, maple syrup, and brown sugar, in a small bowl. Toss to combine. Set aside.
Salmon
- In another small bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush it onto the salmon.
- Place it in the air fryer and cook at 400F for 10-13 minutes.
Notes
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Nutrition
Nutritional information for the recipe is provided as a courtesy and is approximate. Please double-check with your own dietary calculator for the best accuracy. We at Yummi Haus cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.
Share Your Thoughts