Trying to add more Salmon to your diet? We can’t blame you! With being such a great source of protein and omega-3s, while being low on saturated fats, it’s a great addition to anyone’s meal! And using your air fryer to cook it?! It’s probably one of the easiest ways to get dinner on the table fast without a load of stress. While this may seem daunting and out of the ordinary, we have assembled a few tips to answer any questions you may have to make this experience simple and easy for you!
Tip 1. Preheat the air fryer!
We know it’s not always necessary, but when making fish, you don’t want to over cook it. So preheating will not only guarantee even cooking, but it will also ensure consistent results every time you make it again!
Tip 2. Only have frozen fillets?
No judgment here! Those work just as well! Our only recommendation is to thaw them instead of cooking them from frozen. That way, you know the fish is cooked through thoroughly!
Tip 3. Using fresh salmon?
Perfect! Just don’t forget to pat it dry with some paper towels before seasoning, or else you could end up with a soggy and seasoned-less fish and a sad meal.
Tip 4. Did we say seasoning?
Yes, we did! Season that fish to your heart’s content! You can marinate it, season it with your favorite spices and herbs, or both! Add that flavor and your taste buds will thank you!
Tip 5. The skinny on salmon skin.
Don’t be scared if the skin is still on the salmon, you now have built-in non-stick power! Just lay the fish in skin-side down, and you are good to go!
Tip 6. No skin? No worries!
You have two simple options: place the fish on a piece of parchment paper or spray a light layer of oil in the basket, and you no longer have any sticking!
Tip 7. Size matters!
Some filets are thin while others are thick, but that doesn’t mean you have to fret, just adjust your recipe’s cooking time by a couple of minutes and those thicker filets will be cooked to perfection.
Tip 8. Concerned about undercooking?
Just use a meat thermometer! The FDA’s recommendation for salmon to be fully cooked is for it to have an internal temperature of 145°.
Tip 9. Let it rest!
We know this is a meat thing, but it goes for fish too! Letting it rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute and give you a perfectly juicy and tender bite.
Tip 10. Don’t overcrowd your food.
Air fryers cook your food using air circulation. Adding too many things stilts that airflow and can result in unevenly cooked and even very undercooked fish. So let it breathe; your stomach will thank you!
Bonus Tip: Top it up!
You can add some fresh greens and herbs, squeeze a lemon over top, or add a sauce! Flavor that fish; you will thank us later!
Now that we have given you the tips for a successful air-frying salmon experience, go make some salmon! We have several Salmon recipes right here for you to check out and try!