How to choose the best type of salmon for the air fryer
Choosing the right type of salmon is key to getting the best results when cooking it in an air fryer. There are different varieties of salmon, and each has characteristics that can influence its texture, flavor, and cooking time. Here are some tips for selecting the best type of salmon:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Salmon
Fresh salmon offers better flavor and texture, but frozen is more practical and accessible year-round. Be sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
- Popular Salmon Varieties
- With or Without Skin
The skin helps retain moisture and becomes crispy in the air fryer. If you prefer skinless, adjust cooking times to prevent it from drying out.
- Filet Thickness
Thicker fillets are juicier and require more cooking time, while thinner fillets cook faster but may dry out easily.
- Salmon Origin
Opt for sustainably sourced salmon. Wild-caught salmon has a more intense flavor, while farmed salmon is more affordable.
If you're looking for a balanced option in terms of flavor, texture, and price, Atlantic salmon is an excellent choice for the air fryer.
Recommended Cuts for Cooking in the Air Fryer
The cut of the salmon is essential to achieve a good result when cooking it in the air fryer. Different cuts can influence the texture, cooking time, and final flavor of the fish. Below are the most recommended cuts:
- Salmon Fillets: Fillets are a popular option because they cook quickly and evenly. They are ideal if you're looking for a quick and easy meal to prepare in the air fryer. Make sure the fillets have an even thickness to avoid uneven cooking.
- Salmon Loins: Loins are thicker than fillets, which allows them to retain moisture better during cooking. They are perfect if you prefer a juicier salmon with a firmer texture.
- Salmon with Skin: Cooking salmon with skin helps keep the meat juicy and prevents it from drying out. Additionally, the skin becomes crispy in the air fryer, adding a delicious texture to the dish.
- Skinless Salmon: If you prefer a lighter dish or don't enjoy the texture of the skin, you can opt for skinless fillets. Just make sure to slightly adjust the cooking time to prevent it from drying out.
- Cubes or Small Pieces: Cutting salmon into cubes or small pieces is ideal for recipes like skewers or tacos. These cuts cook quickly in the air fryer and are perfect for more creative dishes.
For a balance between juiciness and speed, fillets with skin are an excellent option for cooking in the air fryer.
Simple Marinades for Salmon in the Air Fryer
Marinating is an excellent way to enhance the flavor of salmon before cooking it in the air fryer. Here are some simple marinade ideas that you can easily prepare with common ingredients:
- Lemon and Garlic Marinade: Mix lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This marinade is fresh and highlights the natural flavor of the salmon without overpowering it.
- Honey Mustard Marinade: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and a touch of garlic powder. This marinade offers a perfect balance between sweet and savory, ideal if you're looking for a more complex flavor.
- Asian Marinade: Mix low-sodium soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. This marinade gives the salmon an exotic touch, perfect for those who enjoy oriental flavors.
- Mediterranean Marinade: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, rosemary, and garlic. This marinade is ideal if you're looking for a more herbaceous and aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Marinade: Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, lime juice, and a touch of chili powder. This marinade is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meals.
Let the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking it to allow the flavors to fully absorb.
Ideal Temperature for Cooking Salmon in the Air Fryer
The right temperature is crucial to achieving juicy, well-cooked salmon in the air fryer. Depending on the thickness of the fillet and the type of air fryer, cooking times and temperatures may vary slightly. Below is a general guide to cooking salmon perfectly:
- Recommended Temperature: Most recipes suggest cooking salmon at 200°C (400°F). This temperature allows the salmon to cook quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
- Cooking Times: The cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the fillet:
- Checking Doneness: The salmon is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) at its thickest part. You can check this with a kitchen thermometer or by seeing if the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Always preheat the air fryer for about 5 minutes before adding the salmon to ensure even cooking. Let me know if you need further assistance!
Ingredients needed to cook salmon in the air fryer
To prepare delicious salmon in the air fryer with a lemon and garlic marinade, you will need the following ingredients:
- Salmon fillets (2 pieces): approximately 200-250 g each. The main ingredient, fresh or thawed for better texture.
For the marinade:
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds acidity and freshness, balancing the rich flavor of the salmon.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Adds a deep aromatic flavor to the marinade.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the flavors adhere better to the salmon and keeps it juicy.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon): Adds a herbaceous touch and color to the dish.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the marinade and helps the ingredients penetrate the fish.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mild spice to complement the garlic and lemon.
Let the fillets rest in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking them in the air fryer to allow the flavors to fully absorb.
How to cook salmon in the air fryer, step by step
Follow these detailed steps to cook delicious salmon in the air fryer:
- Prepare the ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients: salmon fillets, olive oil, salt, pepper, and the ingredients for the lemon and garlic marinade. Make sure the salmon is fresh or fully thawed.
- Marinate the salmon
In a bowl, mix lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Place the fillets in the mixture and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the air fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the salmon cooks evenly from the start.
- Prepare the air fryer basket
Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush it with a bit of olive oil. This will prevent the salmon from sticking during cooking.
- Cook the salmon
Place the marinated fillets in the basket without overcrowding them. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 7-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. Thicker fillets will require more time.
- Check for doneness
Use a kitchen thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 63°C (145°F) at its thickest part. If it hasn’t reached this temperature, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove and let rest
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the fish.
- Serve
Serve the salmon hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as salads or roasted vegetables.
How to make salmon crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside
Achieving crispy salmon on the outside and juicy on the inside in the air fryer requires following a few key steps that optimize both texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the salmon dry: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the surface of the salmon, which helps it brown and become crispy.
- Spray olive oil: Apply a light layer of olive oil over the salmon. This helps create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking from the start.
- Place the salmon skin-side down: If your fillet has skin, place it skin-side down in the basket so it becomes crispy without drying out the flesh.
- Cook at high temperature: Cook the salmon at 200°C (400°F) for 7-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet, to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Let it rest before serving: Let the salmon rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the inside moist.
For an extra crispy touch, you can sprinkle some panko or breadcrumbs over the salmon before cooking.
Is it possible to freeze cooked salmon from the air fryer?
Freezing cooked salmon from the air fryer is an excellent option to preserve it and enjoy it later. However, there are some important aspects you should consider to maintain its quality and flavor:
- Cool before freezing: It is essential to let the cooked salmon cool completely at room temperature before freezing it. This prevents the formation of ice crystals that can affect its texture.
- Proper storage: Wrap the salmon in plastic wrap or place it in airtight freezer-safe bags. If possible, use a vacuum sealer to prolong its freshness and avoid freezer burn.
- Freezer duration: Cooked salmon can stay in good condition in the freezer for 2 to 3 months without losing too much flavor or texture. After this time, while still safe to eat, it may become drier.
- Proper thawing: To thaw the salmon, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator a few hours before or the night before. Avoid thawing it at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
- Reheating properly: Once thawed, you can reheat the salmon in the air fryer for a few minutes at a low temperature (160-180°C) to restore its crispy texture without drying it out.
Freezing cooked salmon allows you to save time and avoid waste, as long as you follow these steps to maintain its quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to cook salmon in the air fryer?
A: The cooking time for salmon in the air fryer varies depending on the thickness of the fillet. Generally, it takes between 7 and 12 minutes at a temperature of 200°C (400°F). Thicker fillets will require more time, while thinner ones will cook faster.
Q: Can I cook frozen salmon directly in the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen salmon directly in the air fryer. You just need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to cook it at an appropriate temperature to ensure it is fully cooked inside.
Q: Do I need to use oil to cook salmon in the air fryer?
A: It’s not strictly necessary, but applying a light layer of oil, such as olive oil, helps the exterior of the salmon become crispy and enhances its flavor. Additionally, it prevents the salmon from drying out during cooking.
Q: Should I preheat the air fryer before cooking salmon?
A: Yes, it’s recommended to preheat the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 200°C (400°F) before adding the salmon. This ensures even cooking from the start and helps achieve a crispy texture on the outside.
