Air Fryer Salmon Steak Recipe for Perfectly Crispy Fish

Salmon steak cooked in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone who loves delicious, healthy seafood but wants to save time in the kitchen. This method locks in the salmon’s natural juices, creating a perfectly tender and flaky texture with a crisp exterior.

Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick dinner or a home cook aiming to impress family and friends, this air fryer salmon steak recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort but delivering maximum flavor.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into what makes this recipe special, the exact ingredients and tools you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and even some tips and variations to make it your own. Don’t forget to check out some of our other tasty recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for more inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer salmon steak recipe is beloved for several reasons. First, it cooks salmon quickly and evenly without drying it out, thanks to the circulating hot air technology.

You don’t need to babysit the pan or grill, making it perfect for multitasking in the kitchen.

Second, the recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste or dietary needs.

The crispy edges combined with the moist interior make every bite satisfying, whether you prefer simple seasoning like lemon and herbs or a bold spice rub.

Finally, air fryer salmon is a healthier alternative to traditional frying, using little to no oil and still delivering a flavorful, juicy result. This makes it an excellent choice for those watching their fat intake or seeking wholesome meals that don’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon steaks (about 6 oz each, skin on)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Juice of half a lemon
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or dill

Equipment

• Air fryer (capable of reaching 400°F / 200°C)
• Small mixing bowl for seasoning
• Tongs for flipping salmon
• Measuring spoons
• Sharp knife for garnishing

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pat the salmon steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a crispy finish.
4. Brush the salmon steaks lightly with olive oil on both sides. This prevents sticking and promotes browning.
5. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the salmon steaks. Rub gently to adhere.
6. Place the salmon steaks skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping for proper air circulation.
7. Cook for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steaks. Check at 7 minutes for doneness—the salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist inside.
8. Carefully flip the salmon halfway through cooking using tongs to ensure even crisping on both sides.
9. Once cooked, remove the salmon steaks and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill as desired and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For the best results, choose fresh, high-quality salmon steaks with skin on. The skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer and helps keep the fish moist.

If you prefer a zestier flavor, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the olive oil before brushing the salmon. For a spicy kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the seasoning mix.

Feel free to swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or add herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also marinate the salmon for 30 minutes in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic for an Asian-inspired twist.

When cooking multiple salmon steaks, avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if necessary to maintain air circulation and even cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This air fryer salmon steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light and refreshing meal, serve with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus.

To add some heartiness, consider garlic mashed potatoes or a quinoa pilaf with fresh herbs and toasted almonds. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots complement the smoky flavor of the salmon beautifully.

For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach with garlic make excellent accompaniments. And of course, a wedge of lemon on the side is always a nice touch to brighten each bite.

Conclusion

Cooking salmon steak in the air fryer is a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty way to enjoy this nutritious fish. This recipe combines simplicity with versatility, making it ideal for cooks of all skill levels.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this air fryer salmon steak is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and sides to keep the dish fresh and exciting.

For more delicious and easy recipes, check out our posts on Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious and Can I Substitute Almonds for Cashews in Vegan Cheese?. Happy cooking!

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