The Best Air Fryer Salmon You’ve Ever Had

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Elevate your culinary experience with this Air-Fried Citrus-Herb Crusted Salmon recipe that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a unique twist to the cooking process.

Air Fryer Salmon, known for its rich omega-3 fatty acids and succulent texture, takes center stage in this recipe. The air fryer, a kitchen marvel that crisps and cooks with precision, serves as our trusty companion, ensuring a perfect balance of tenderness and crunch.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Avocado-Lime Drizzle:

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
   • In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, orange zest, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   • Brush the salmon fillets evenly with the herb-infused oil mixture.
3. Air Fry the Salmon:
   • Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
   • Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Adjust the time based on the thickness of your fillets.
4. Prepare the Avocado-Lime Drizzle:
   • In a bowl, combine mashed avocado, lime juice, chopped cilantro, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve with a Twist:
   • Plate the air-fried salmon fillets and generously drizzle the unique Avocado-Lime mixture over each piece.
   • Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Unique Twist:
Infuse your cooking process with positivity! Before placing the salmon in the air fryer, take a moment to express gratitude for the meal you’re about to prepare. As you air fry, envision the heat circulating around the salmon, locking in the vibrant flavors. This positive energy will undoubtedly add a unique touch to your dish, making it a delightful experience for both the chef and the diners.

10 Best Side Dishes To Pair With Air Fryer Salmon

Pairing Salmon in Air Fryer with complementary side dishes can elevate the overall dining experience. Here are ten delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the flavors of the salmon:

1. Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables: Light, fluffy quinoa mixed with roasted bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, dressed in a lemon vinaigrette.
2. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus spears seasoned with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil, then roasted until tender-crisp.
3. Mango Avocado Salsa: A refreshing salsa combining diced mango, avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a burst of tropical flavors.
4. Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection with a zesty combination of lemon, garlic, and a touch of honey.
5. Cauliflower Mash with Chives: Creamy cauliflower mash blended with chives, garlic, and a hint of butter, serving as a flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
6. Wild Rice Pilaf with Dried Cranberries: Nutty wild rice cooked with aromatic herbs, vegetable broth, and sweet dried cranberries for a festive touch.
7. Grilled Zucchini with Herbs: Zucchini slices seasoned with herbs, grilled to a smoky perfection, and drizzled with a balsamic glaze.
8. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms stuffed with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, then baked until golden brown.
9. Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: Sweet potato wedges seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin, and a touch of cinnamon, roasted until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
10. Citrus Couscous with Almonds: Fluffy couscous tossed with citrus segments, toasted almonds, and fresh parsley, creating a light and vibrant side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to flip salmon in air fryer?

No, you don’t necessarily have to flip salmon when cooking it in an air fryer. The air fryer is designed to circulate hot air around the food, cooking it evenly on all sides without the need for flipping.

This ensures the salmon gets a nice, even cook throughout, resulting in a beautifully tender and moist fillet with a slightly crisp exterior. However, depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets and your specific air fryer model, you might want to check the salmon halfway through the cooking process to ensure it’s cooking evenly.

If you feel it’s necessary, you can gently flip the fillets to ensure they’re perfectly cooked to your liking, but this step is usually not required for most air fryer recipes involving salmon.

Baking vs Air Frying Salmon

Choosing between baking or air frying salmon boils down to personal preference, the texture you’re aiming for, and the level of convenience you need.

Baking salmon in an oven is a more traditional method that allows for a gentle, even cook, especially beneficial for thicker cuts. This method can be excellent for flavor development, as the slower cooking process gives more time for the salmon to absorb the flavors of any marinades or seasonings.

On the other hand, air frying offers a quicker, more convenient option with the added benefit of achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. The rapid circulation of hot air in an air fryer can cook salmon faster than an oven, making it a great choice for those looking for a quick meal without sacrificing texture or moisture.

Ultimately, the decision between baking and air frying salmon should consider your taste preferences, the specific recipe you’re following, and how much time you have to prepare your meal.

Helpful resources:

• Wild caught salmon vs farm raised salmon
• More about Old Fashioned Cravings
• All our recipes

Wrap-Up

As you savor the final bite of this Air-Fried Citrus-Herb Crusted Salmon with Avocado-Lime Drizzle, let the symphony of flavors and the joy of a well-cooked meal wash over you.

This dish is not just a testament to the power of combining fresh, wholesome ingredients with a touch of culinary creativity but also a reminder of how simple it is to create something truly extraordinary.

The zesty citrus notes and aromatic herbs beautifully complement the rich, tender salmon, while the creamy Avocado-Lime Drizzle adds a luxurious finish that elevates this dish to new heights.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, or simply infuse your cooking with more love and gratitude, this recipe promises to deliver on all fronts.

Here’s to many more meals that are as delightful to prepare as they are to devour. Bon appétit!