Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon
- Marinate:
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated.
- Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the salmon starts cooking immediately and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
- Arrange in the Basket:
- Lightly oil the air fryer basket or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side down if the skin is on.
- Air Fry:
- Cook the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the cooked salmon to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
- With Vegetables:
- Serve the salmon with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
- With Grains:
- Pair the salmon with a serving of quinoa, rice, or couscous for a complete meal.
- With Salad:
- Top a fresh green salad with the salmon fillets for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinating Time: While 15 minutes is sufficient, marinating the salmon for up to 1 hour allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply.
- Uniform Thickness: Try to select salmon fillets of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the salmon has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the salmon in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can prevent even cooking.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Salmon is a delicious, healthy, and quick meal option that is perfect for any occasion. With its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the simplicity and benefits of air frying with this delightful salmon recipe!