Perfect Air Fryer Frozen Salmon is your ticket to a quick, mouthwatering meal that’s both healthy and delicious! Imagine tender, flaky salmon fillets seasoned with zesty lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic powder, all cooked to perfection in just minutes. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving you that irresistible crispy exterior. Serve it alongside vibrant steamed veggies or fluffy quinoa for a delightful dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss. Dive into this easy delight and savor every bite of your new favorite weeknight dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously flaky and tender salmon, bursting with flavor.
- Healthier alternative to traditional frying, with less oil needed.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with any side you love.
- Minimal cleanup, so you can enjoy your meal without the hassle!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 10-12 minutes |
| Total Time: | 15-17 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free, Keto |
| Serves: | 2 |
| Best Served: | With lemon and herbs |
Ingredients
- Frozen Salmon Fillets – the star of the dish, providing rich flavor and healthy omega-3s.
- Olive Oil – enhances flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Garlic Powder – adds a savory depth to the salmon.
- Lemon Juice – brightens the dish and balances the richness of the salmon.
- Salt – essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Pepper – adds a touch of heat and complements the salmon.
- Dill or Parsley – fresh herbs for garnish and added flavor.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready for a delicious adventure with your air fryer! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect air fryer frozen salmon.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Grab your frozen salmon fillets, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This helps achieve that crispy exterior!
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
Lightly brush the frozen salmon with olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any herbs you love on top.
Step 4: Place Salmon in the Air Fryer
Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded for even cooking.
Step 5: Air Fry the Salmon
Cook the salmon for 12-15 minutes. Check for doneness; it should flake easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy your delightful meal!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
- Season your salmon with lemon juice and herbs for extra flavor.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F for perfect doneness.
- For a crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down and avoid overcrowding the basket.
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking to enhance its juiciness.
How to Serve
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zesty kick.
- Pair with a side of garlic roasted asparagus for a vibrant plate.
- Top with a dollop of creamy dill sauce for extra flavor.
- Enjoy alongside fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- Mix with a fresh salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
- Serve in a taco with crunchy cabbage and a drizzle of lime crema.
- Accompany with sweet potato fries for a delightful contrast.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Serve with a warm slice of our Easy Air Fryer No Knead Bread to complement the flaky salmon perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the salmon in the air fryer basket.
• Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Check for doneness to ensure it’s heated evenly.
Perfect Air Fryer Frozen Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grab your frozen salmon fillets, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.
- Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This helps achieve that crispy exterior!
- Lightly brush the frozen salmon with olive oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any herbs you love on top.
- Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded for even cooking.
- Cook the salmon for 12-15 minutes. Check for doneness; it should flake easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy your delightful meal!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 0g |
FAQs
Can I cook salmon from frozen without thawing it first?
Absolutely! Cooking salmon from frozen is not only convenient but also helps retain moisture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly longer than if it were thawed, and you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon.
What seasonings work best for frozen salmon in an air fryer?
Simple seasonings like lemon pepper, garlic powder, or a sprinkle of dill work wonders. You can also use a mix of olive oil and your favorite herbs for added flavor.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The best way to check is by using a food thermometer. Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. It should flake easily with a fork.
Can I use other types of fish in the air fryer?
Yes! The air fryer is versatile. You can use other frozen fish like cod or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.
And if you’re wondering about other proteins, you can use this same quick and easy method for our Easy Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breast.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your ticket to a deliciously easy meal with Perfect Air Fryer Frozen Salmon! Just imagine the crispy exterior and tender, flaky fish that awaits you. It’s a delightful dish that’s not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this recipe, and enjoy every bite together. Happy cooking, friend!