Salmon is a versatile and delicious fish that’s packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. While there are many ways to cook salmon, using an air fryer is one of the easiest and most efficient methods. Here’s how to cook salmon perfectly in an air fryer:

Prep the Salmon

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare the salmon properly:

• Pat the Salmon Dry: Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry. This helps remove excess moisture, ensuring that the salmon crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
• Season: Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. You can get creative with your seasonings, using options like lemon pepper, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheating the air fryer is crucial for achieving the perfect sear on your salmon. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes before adding the salmon.

Cooking Process

Once the air fryer is preheated, follow these steps to cook the salmon:

• Place in Air Fryer Basket: Arrange the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. If the salmon has skin, place it skin-side down for optimal crisping.
• Cook Time: Cook the salmon in the preheated air fryer for about 10 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. As a general rule, cook the salmon for about 4-6 minutes per 1/2 inch of thickness.

Check for Doneness

To ensure that the salmon is cooked through, use a fork to gently flake apart the thickest part of the fillet. The flesh should be opaque and easily flake apart, but still moist in the center.

Serve

Once the salmon is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. You can enjoy it hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of chopped herbs, or your favorite sauce.

Benefits of Air Fryer Cooking

Cooking salmon in an air fryer offers several benefits:

• Healthier Option: Air frying requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
• Quick and Easy: Air fryers cook food quickly and evenly, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Crispy Texture: Air fryers produce crispy, golden-brown exteriors while keeping the interior of the salmon moist and tender.