Air Fryer Blackened Salmon Ready in Just 15 Minutes

Name: Air Fryer Blackened Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon paprika; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

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The air fryer blackened salmon recipe is a great choice for all seafood lovers, offering an incredibly easy and delicious way to enjoy a healthy, flavor-packed meal. How is it so easy? Simply season your salmon fillets with the bold blackening spice mix, pop them in the air fryer at 400°F for 10 minutes, and you’ll have an amazing, crispy, and healthy blackened salmon meal on your plate.

It’s straightforward and quick, making it perfect for a quick healthy dinner. Using an air fryer for this dish means you can enjoy the deep, rich flavors without much oil, making it a healthier choice. Plus, the convenience of using an air fryer adds to its appeal, making this easy air fryer seafood recipe a go-to for busy weeknights.

What You’ll Need

Essential Ingredients for Blackened Salmon:–

To create a flavorful blackened salmon, gather the following ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

These blackened salmon ingredients combine to create a seasoning mix that’s perfect for enhancing the natural taste of fresh salmon fillets.

Essential Equipment for Blackened Salmon:-

For this easy salmon recipe, you’ll need:

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and ensures your salmon is perfectly cooked.

How to Prepare Your Blackened Salmon for Air Fry

Getting your salmon ready for cooking is straightforward. Here’s how to prepare it with the blackened salmon seasoning.

In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoons each of garlic powder and onion powder, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This is your seasoning mix.

Ingredients for blackened salmon seasoning on kitchen counter

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning mix adheres well.

Brush each fillet with olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick to the salmon and promotes an even cooking process.

Preparing salmon fillets for air frying with seasoning mix

Evenly sprinkle the seasoning mix over all sides of the salmon fillets. Use your hands to gently press the seasoning onto the fish, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Salmon fillets coated in blackening seasoning ready for air frying

Let the seasoned salmon rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This step helps the seasoning to meld with the fish and also brings the salmon to a slightly warmer temperature, promoting even cooking.

How to Cook Blackened Salmon in Air Fryer

Here’s how:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is essential for cooking blackened salmon evenly.

2. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching, to allow air circulation.

Salmon fillets cooking in air fryer, showing crispy crust development

3. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the air fryer salmon cooking time. The exact time will depend on your air fryer and the thickness of the fillets.

Salmon fillets cooking in air fryer, flipping halfway

4. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the salmon has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures your blackened salmon is cooked through perfectly.

5. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your salmon is moist and flavorful.

Note: Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fillets and individual air fryer models. Always check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure it’s done.

By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked blackened salmon that’s moist on the inside with a flavorful crust on the outside. I’m very happy to share this method because it highlights how easy and healthy cooking with an air fryer can be.

Blackened Salmon Nutritional Information

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe: 4

Calories: 280

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Total Fat	13g	20%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	80mg	27%
Sodium	300mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	1g	<1%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	0g
Protein	39g	78%
Vitamin D	0.6µg	3%
Calcium	20mg	2%
Iron	1.1mg	6%
Potassium	840mg	18%

*% Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Serving Suggestions

Serving air fryer salmon opens a world of possibilities. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Pair with a side of asparagus or green beans made in the air fryer. Their crisp texture complements the tender salmon.
Quinoa or wild rice are excellent blackened salmon side dishes. They add heartiness to the meal without overpowering the main star.
For a refreshing touch, add lemon wedges and fresh herbs like dill or parsley as garnishes. They brighten the dish and add a pop of color.

Serving suggestion for blackened salmon with salad and quinoa

By keeping these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’ll improve your air fryer salmon recipe to new heights, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

FAQs about Air Fryer Cooking Instructions

What is blackened salmon?

Blackened salmon is a preparation method where salmon fillets are coated with a mixture of spices, known as blackening seasoning, and then cooked.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, this recipe can be doubled. Ensure your air fryer is large enough to accommodate the extra salmon fillets without overcrowding. Cooking in batches may be necessary to maintain the quality of the blackened crust.

Can I use frozen salmon filets?

Using frozen salmon fillets is possible. For the best results, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold water before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.

How to store cooked salmon?

Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Remember to let it cool to room temperature before storing to prevent moisture build-up.

How long to cook blackened salmon in an air fryer?

Cook blackened salmon in the air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes. The exact time might vary based on the thickness of the fillets. Always check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Is blackened salmon healthier?

Blackened salmon is a healthier option, especially when cooked in an air fryer. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein while being low in saturated fat. The spices add flavor without extra calories, making it a nutritious choice.

What temperature to cook a salmon fillet in an air fryer?

Cook a salmon fillet in the air fryer at 400°F. This temperature ensures the salmon is cooked through while achieving a nice crust on the seasoning without overcooking.

Customization Ideas

Making the blackened salmon your own can be as simple as tweaking the spices or adding new flavors to suit your dietary preferences or just to change things up. Here are some ideas:

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in your blackened seasoning. Start with a small increment to find your ideal heat level.
Experiment with smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or oregano into your seasoning mix for an aromatic twist.

These customizing blackened seasoning and salmon recipe variations allow for endless possibilities, ensuring you never tire of this delicious dish. Whether you prefer it spicier or with a hint of smokiness, adjusting the spice adjustments and dietary modifications can make all the difference.

Storing and Reheating

Keeping your air fryer salmon tasting fresh after the first meal involves proper storage and reheating techniques. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Cooked Salmon:

Once cooled, place the leftovers in airtight containers. This helps preserve the moisture and flavor.
Refrigerate the salmon promptly. Cooked salmon should be consumed within 3 days for the best quality.

Reheating Air Fryer Salmon:

To reheat, place the salmon back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 to 5 minutes. This method helps maintain the juicy salmon texture without drying it out.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can unevenly heat the fish and affect its texture.

Following these storing cooked salmon and reheating tips ensures your salmon remains delicious for days.

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Air Fryer Cooking Tips and Tricks

Cooking salmon to perfection, especially when aiming for that juicy salmon with a blackened crust, requires attention to detail. Here are some tips:

Preheat your air fryer. This ensures the seasoning on the salmon starts to sizzle the moment it hits the basket, creating a better blackened crust.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air circulation is key to perfect air fryer salmon. It ensures even cooking and the perfect texture.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooked salmon. The ideal internal salmon temperature should be 145°F for moist, flaky fish.
For those who love experimenting, try different seasonings. A dash of brown sugar in your spice mix can add a delightful contrast to the smoky blackened crust.

Final Thoughts

Cooking salmon in an air fryer simplifies making a nutritious, flavorful meal at home. It’s a testament to how cooking at home can be both easy and rewarding. The health benefits of salmon, combined with the efficiency of an air fryer, make this one of my favorite air fryer seafood recipes.

From spicy to smoky, the customization options are endless.

Imagine pairing this dish with a fresh salad, quinoa, or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

I’d love to hear your experiences, variations, or any questions you have. Feel free to share in the comment box below.