Cooking Salmon Steaks in Air Fryer – A Juicy and Crispy Delight Made Easy
Air frying salmon steaks is a fast and delicious way to enjoy this healthy fish without compromising on texture or flavor.
With just a few ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper, you can make perfectly cooked salmon in less than 15 minutes.
The hot circulating air gives the fish a crispy edge while keeping the inside juicy.
This method is excellent for quick dinners or healthy meal prep, and it works even better with a fresh garlic lemon glaze or a side of roasted veggies.
Preparation Details
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | Main | American | 2 |
Ingredient List
| Ingredients | For 2 Servings | For 4 Servings | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salmon steaks | 2 (6 oz each) | 4 (6 oz each) | Salmon fillets |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Avocado oil |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp | 1 tsp | Minced garlic |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | ½ tsp | Lemon pepper |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | Lime juice |
| Salt | To taste | To taste | Sea salt |
Tools You’ll Need for This Recipe
| Cooking Tool | Purpose | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Air fryer | Cook salmon evenly | Oven |
| Basting brush | Apply oil and seasonings | Spoon |
| Tongs | Flip steaks mid-way | Spatula |
| Meat thermometer | Check internal temp | Visual check |
How Long to Cook Salmon Steaks in Air Fryer?
Salmon steaks cook best at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes depending on thickness and air fryer model. Flip the steaks halfway through to ensure both sides crisp up evenly.
| Air Fryer Type | Temperature | Cooking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basket Air Fryer | 390°F | 9–10 minutes | Flip halfway |
| Oven Air Fryer | 385°F | 10–12 minutes | Use middle rack |
| Dual Zone Fryer | 390°F | 8–9 minutes | Rotate baskets if needed |
Use a thermometer to confirm:
- Internal temp: 125°F for medium
- Internal temp: 130°F+ for well-done
How to Make Salmon Steaks in Air Fryer
Before you start, ensure the salmon steaks are fully thawed and patted dry. This helps the oil and seasoning stick well and prevents steaming instead of crisping.
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon steaks dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, lemon juice, and salt. Brush the mixture over both sides of the salmon steaks.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Turn your air fryer to 390°F and preheat for 3 minutes. This helps sear the outside and prevent sticking.
Step 3: Place in Air Fryer Basket
Arrange the salmon steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overlap them. This ensures even cooking and crispness.
Step 4: Cook and Flip
Cook the salmon for 5 minutes, then open the basket and gently flip the steaks. Continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches your preferred doneness.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the salmon steaks and let them rest for 2–3 minutes. This helps the juices settle and boosts the overall flavor.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh dill
- Pair with steamed asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes
- Add a side of rice pilaf or a fresh garden salad
- Drizzle with honey mustard or yogurt dill sauce
Variations to Try
- Honey Garlic Glaze: Mix honey, garlic, and soy sauce for a sweet-savory twist
- Herbed Crust: Add crushed dried herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan before air frying
- Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the oil mix
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days
- Freezer: Wrap in foil or plastic wrap, freeze up to 2 months
- Reheat: Air fry for 2–3 minutes at 350°F to reheat without drying
Common Mistakes, Solutions & Prevention
| Mistake | Solution | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Dry salmon | Use sauce or glaze before serving | Don’t overcook, use thermometer |
| Sticking to basket | Use parchment paper | Preheat and oil the basket |
| Uneven cooking | Flip and rotate halfway | Cook similar sizes together |
FAQs
1. Can I cook frozen salmon steaks in the air fryer?
Yes, increase the cooking time by 4–5 minutes and use a slightly lower temperature (375°F) to prevent burning outside.
2. Should I remove the skin from the salmon steak before cooking?
You can cook it with the skin on. The air fryer crisps it nicely if placed skin-side down first.
3. Do I need to marinate salmon before air frying?
No, a simple oil and spice rub is enough, but marination adds extra flavor if you have time.
4. Why is my salmon white on the sides after air frying?
That’s albumin, a protein that’s harmless but can indicate overcooking. Cooking at moderate temperature reduces it.
5. What is the best side dish for air fryer salmon steaks?
Roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or mashed sweet potatoes go really well with salmon steaks.
