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Delicious Air Fryer Salmon: A Quick and Healthy Recipe

Salmon is undoubtedly one of the most versatile and nutritious fish available, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and a range of vitamins and minerals. For those who are short on time but still want to whip up a delicious meal, the air fryer has become a kitchen staple. It provides a quick, convenient way to cook food with a crispy exterior and tender interior, and salmon is no exception. In this article, we will explore how to prepare air fryer salmon that is both simple to make and bursting with flavour.

Ingredients

To prepare air fryer salmon, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (about 150-200 grams each)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh lemon halves, for serving
• Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley), for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon

Begin by patting your salmon fillets dry with a kitchen towel. This step is crucial, as it helps to achieve a crispy skin. Once dried, place the fillets in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. This not only adds flavour but also aids in crisping up the salmon in the air fryer.

2. Season the Fillets

Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the fillets. Use your fingers to gently rub the spices into the fish, ensuring an even coating. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences; a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or a dash of lemon zest can elevate the dish further.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating is essential as it ensures that your salmon starts cooking immediately, promoting a perfectly cooked result.

4. Air Fry the Salmon

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned salmon fillets in the basket, skin side down. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking. Cook the salmon for approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).

5. Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. This will help retain moisture. Serve the fillets with fresh lemon halves to drizzle over the top, enhancing the fish’s natural flavours. For a pop of colour and freshness, sprinkle some chopped herbs such as dill or parsley.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

• Choose Quality Salmon: Fresh salmon is best, but frozen fillets will work as well. Just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking.
• Skin On or Off: Cooking with the skin on can help to lock in moisture and flavour. If you prefer skinless, simply remove it after cooking.
• Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to try different marinades or seasoning mixes, such as teriyaki or lemon-herb, to create a variety of flavours.
• Accompaniments: Air fryer salmon pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Air fryer salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavourful option that can be easily integrated into any weeknight dinner routine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will help you create a delicious meal in no time. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you’ll find yourself serving up perfectly cooked salmon with an irresistible crispy exterior and succulent interior. Give it a try, and enjoy the numerous health benefits that this delightful fish has to offer!

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