Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Skin: A Healthy and Delicious Delight

Are you ready to elevate your salmon game? Air frying salmon with skin is an effortless technique that delivers crispy, golden skin and tender, flaky flesh. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to ensure a perfectly cooked salmon fillet every time.

Choosing the Right Salmon

Begin with a fresh or frozen salmon fillet. If using frozen, thaw it thoroughly before cooking. Opt for fillets with the skin intact, as it protects the flesh during cooking and contributes to the crispy texture.

Preparing the Salmon

1. Pat dry: Remove any excess moisture from the salmon using paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up.
2. Season: Generously season the salmon with salt, pepper, and your desired herbs and spices.
3. Oil: Brush or spray the salmon skin lightly with olive oil or avocado oil. This prevents sticking and enhances the crispiness.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy skin.

Air Frying the Salmon

1. Place the salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down.
2. Air fry: Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
3. Check for doneness: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the salmon to check the internal temperature.

Tips for Crispy Skin

• Dry the skin thoroughly: Patting the salmon dry before seasoning and cooking is crucial for a crispy skin.
• Preheat the air fryer: A preheated air fryer creates a hot environment that helps the skin crisp up quickly.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding prevents the hot air from circulating properly, resulting in soggy skin.
• Flip halfway through: For evenly crispy skin, flip the salmon fillets halfway through the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

• Lemon wedges: Serve the salmon with lemon wedges for a refreshing citrus kick.
• Grilled vegetables: Pair the salmon with grilled asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• Sauce: Drizzle the salmon with a simple lemon-herb sauce or a creamy dill sauce.

Troubleshooting

• Skin not crispy: Make sure the salmon is dry before cooking, the air fryer is preheated, and the skin is brushed with oil.
• Salmon overcooked: Monitor the internal temperature closely and remove the salmon from the air fryer when it reaches the desired doneness.
• Salmon undercooked: Increase the cooking time if the internal temperature is below 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.

The Perfect Ending: A Crispy and Juicy Salmon Feast

Air frying salmon with skin is a culinary masterpiece that combines crispy skin with tender, flaky flesh. By following these instructions and tips, you can impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness of air fryer salmon with skin!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

Q2: What temperature should the salmon be cooked to?
For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). For medium, cook to 145°F (63°C).

Q3: How long should I cook salmon in the air fryer?
Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches the desired doneness.

Q4: Should I flip the salmon during cooking?
Yes, flip the salmon halfway through the cooking time for evenly crispy skin.

Q5: What can I serve with air fryer salmon?
Serve with lemon wedges, grilled vegetables, or a sauce of your choice.