Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Salmon

By: Toya. L

Discover this quick and easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Salmon recipe that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner! In just 15 minutes, you’ll have crispy, flavorful salmon with a golden garlic parmesan crust. This low-carb, keto-friendly meal is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious option for anyone looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish. The air fryer ensures the salmon turns out perfectly tender on the inside while the parmesan topping becomes irresistibly crispy. Serve with your favorite veggies or a fresh salad for a complete, mouthwatering meal!”

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❤️What is there to love about Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Salmon❤️

• Quick and Easy: The air fryer cuts down on cooking time, making it a convenient option for a fast, healthy meal. The salmon cooks quickly while still achieving a crispy outside and tender inside.
• Flavorful Crust: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a savory, golden crust on the salmon, which contrasts beautifully with its flaky texture. This crust adds a rich depth of flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the fish.
• Health Benefits: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other essential nutrients. Cooking it in the air fryer requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to frying or sautéing.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means less mess. You don’t need to deal with grease splatters or multiple pans, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Salmon Ingredients:

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Salmon Instructions:

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Prepare the air fryer with parchment paper or foil.
• Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter the Parmesan cheese, and the garlic together.
• Coat the Salmon: Brush the garlic butter Parmesan mixture generously over the tops of the salmon fillets.
• Prepare the seasoning: Season the top of the fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano. Set aside.
• Air Fry the Salmon: Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down if using skin-on. Make sure they are in a single layer with space around each fillet for even cooking.
• Cook the Salmon: Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the tops are golden and crispy.
• Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

*NUTRITION DISCLAIMER

Tips for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Salmon:

• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon fillets will give you the best flavor. Look for fillets with firm flesh and vibrant color. If frozen, thaw the salmon completely before cooking.
• Pat the Salmon Dry: Before seasoning, pat the salmon dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning and Parmesan stick better and ensures a crispier texture.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer for a few minutes ensures the salmon starts cooking at the right temperature, leading to a crispier finish.
• Use Parchment Paper, Foil or Light Oil Spray: To avoid the salmon sticking to the air fryer basket, you can line it with perforated parchment paper or lightly spray with a bit of oil. This also makes cleanup easier.
• Evenly Spread the Garlic Parmesan Coating: Make sure to evenly coat the salmon fillets with the garlic, Parmesan, and seasoning mixture. Press the coating onto the fillets gently for a better crust.

Flavor Variations:

• 1. Lemon Herb Parmesan: Add fresh lemon zest to the Parmesan and garlic mixture for a citrusy brightness. You can also include herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary for extra freshness. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to enhance the flavors.
• 2. Spicy Parmesan Salmon: If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or paprika to the garlic-Parmesan mixture. Serve with a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce for an extra kick.
• 3. Italian Seasoned Parmesan: Mix Italian seasoning into the Parmesan coating for an herby, savory twist. This works great with oregano, basil, and thyme. Top with a little marinara sauce after cooking for an “Italian-inspired” touch.
• 4.Smoky Paprika Parmesan: Add smoked paprika to the Parmesan mix to give the salmon a smoky depth of flavor. This pairs especially well with garlic and enhances the overall richness.
• 5.Asian-Inspired Parmesan: For a fusion flavor, mix a bit of soy sauce or miso paste into the Parmesan mixture. Add grated ginger or a touch of sesame oil for a subtle Asian flair. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds after air frying.

Storing, freezing, thawing, and reheating instructions:

Storing: In the Refrigerator: After cooking, let the salmon cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Salmon will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Let the salmon cool completely before freezing. Wrap each piece of salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped salmon in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.

Thawing: In the Refrigerator: The best way to thaw frozen salmon is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Let it thaw overnight or for at least 12-24 hours.

Reheating: In the Air Fryer: To retain the crispiness of the Parmesan crust, the air fryer is the best option for reheating. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the salmon for about 3-5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon. However, it’s best to thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and a better texture. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick thaw method in cold water.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer? Preheating the air fryer helps achieve a crispier crust on the salmon, so it’s recommended. Preheat the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes before adding the salmon.

How do I keep the garlic Parmesan coating from falling off? Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels before applying the coating. This helps the Parmesan and garlic mixture adhere better. Press the coating gently onto the fillets to ensure it sticks.

How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

What sides pair well with garlic Parmesan salmon? This salmon pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, quinoa, mashed cauliflower, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with lemon wedges for extra zest.

What can I do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? You can substitute with other cheeses that melt well, like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. For a dairy-free version, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.