Image Source from CamilaRecipesNow

Easy & Healthy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Salmon is often hailed as a superfood, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. When cooked properly, it’s not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to prepare salmon that results in a flaky, flavourful dish, an air fryer is your best friend. This article will guide you through a straightforward air fryer salmon recipe that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have skyrocketed in popularity over recent years, and for good reason. They allow you to prepare crispy and tasty meals with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This means you can enjoy all the flavours without the extra calories, making it a great option for health-conscious eaters. Plus, air fryers are quick and easy to use, meaning you can have dinner on the table in no time.

Ingredients

For this air fryer salmon recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (about 200-250g each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley) for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon: Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that desirable crispy texture.

2. Season the Fillets: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) and let it preheat for approximately 3-5 minutes. Preheating is essential to get that perfect sear on the salmon.

4. Cook the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The general rule of thumb is to cook salmon for about 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness. The salmon is cooked perfectly when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).

5. Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. Serve the fillets with lemon wedges on the side and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

• Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible. Not only is it generally more flavourful, but it’s also considered a more sustainable choice.

• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to mix up the spices and herbs based on your personal taste. Try adding lemon zest, dill, or a dash of soy sauce for an Asian twist.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: If you are cooking multiple fillets, make sure to leave space between them in the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and proper air circulation.

• Accompaniments: Pair your salmon with a side of steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

This easy air fryer salmon recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on taste or convenience. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and make healthy eating a delightful experience. So dust off your air fryer and enjoy this deliciously simple salmon dish tonight!

No items listed in the response.