How to Cook Perfect Salmon in an Instant Vortex Air Fryer

Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a quick, easy and healthy way to prepare this delicious fish. The instant vortex air fryer circulates hot air around food to cook it evenly and add a crispy texture. Follow this simple guide to learn how to make perfect salmon in an instant vortex air fryer every time.

Benefits of Cooking Salmon in an Air Fryer

There are several benefits to cooking salmon in an instant vortex air fryer compared to other cooking methods:

• Quick cooking time – Salmon cooks fast in an air fryer, usually 10-15 minutes This makes it a convenient option for quick weeknight dinners

• Even cooking – The circulating hot air ensures the salmon is cooked evenly throughout and prevents dry or overcooked spots.

• Adds crispiness – The air fryer gives the salmon skin a crispy, crunchy texture you can’t achieve through baking or pan frying.

• Retains moisture – Air frying draws moisture out slowly, so the salmon stays tender and juicy inside.

• Easy cleanup – With no oil needed, there’s minimal mess or cleanup after air frying salmon.

Tips for Cooking Salmon in an Instant Vortex Air Fryer

Follow these tips and tricks for perfect air fried salmon every time:

• Choose fresh wild salmon fillets – Farmed salmon tends to be fattier while wild salmon has a better flavor and texture for air frying.

• Cut salmon into evenly sized portions – This allows the fish to cook at the same rate. Aim for 4-6 oz fillets.

• Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels – Removing excess moisture prevents steaming and aids browning.

• Brush lightly with oil – A small amount of oil or cooking spray helps the air circulate and creates a crispy skin.

• Season as desired – Salmon takes well to most seasonings – try lemon pepper, garlic powder, herbs, etc.

• Flip halfway through cooking – Turning the fillets over midway ensures even doneness on both sides.

• Let rest before serving – Allow the salmon to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking for the juices to redistribute.

Step-by-Step Instant Vortex Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

This simple recipe results in tender, flaky salmon with a crispy seasoned skin:

Ingredients:

• 4 (4-6 oz) salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1⁄2 tsp salt
• 1⁄4 tsp pepper
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Pat salmon dry with paper towels and brush both sides lightly with oil.

2. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Preheat air fryer to 390°F.

4. Place fillets skin-side down in air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.

5. Cook for 6 minutes until salmon is almost opaque in center.

6. Carefully flip fillets and cook for 4-5 minutes more until fully opaque.

7. Allow to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.

Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

Temperature: 390°F

This recipe can be customized with different seasonings, marinades, or cooking temperatures to suit your taste. Play around with Cajun seasoning, teriyaki marinade, or higher heat for a more crisped skin.

Common FAQs About Cooking Salmon in an Air Fryer

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about preparing salmon in an instant vortex air fryer:

Can I cook frozen salmon in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen salmon works well in an air fryer. Thaw first and pat dry thoroughly. Add 1-2 extra minutes to the cook time.

What temperature should I use to cook salmon?

390°F is ideal, producing tender and flaky salmon. For more crispiness, go up to 400°F. Avoid exceeding 410°F or the fish may dry out.

How long does it take to cook salmon in an air fryer?

For a 1-inch thick fillet, cook for about 10-12 minutes flipping halfway. Thicker cuts take 12-15 minutes. Check for doneness at the minimum time.

Can I air fry salmon steaks or salmon with skin?

Yes! Salmon steaks may need 2-3 extra minutes. Keep skin-on fillets skin-side down the entire time to get a really crispy skin.

Should I flip the salmon during cooking?

Flipping the fillets halfway through is highly recommended to ensure even cooking on both sides.

Is air fried salmon healthy?

Absolutely! Salmon is a nutritious fish high in omega-3s. Air frying avoids adding extra fat or calories from oil, making it a healthy cooking method.

Troubleshooting Air Fried Salmon

Here are some tips if your air fried salmon doesn’t turn out right:

• Salmon is undercooked – Increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes until opaque and flakes easily. Check temperature with a meat thermometer if needed.

• Salmon is overcooked and dry – Reduce cooking time, lower air fryer temperature, or add an extra brush of oil.

• Salmon sticks to basket – Use a finer mist of oil spray and allow air fryer to fully preheat before adding fish.

• Salmon skin isn’t crispy – Make sure skin is placed face down. Brush with a touch more oil if needed.

• Uneven cooking – Cut salmon into evenly sized portions. Don’t overcrowd basket. Flip halfway through.

More Delicious Instant Vortex Air Fryer Salmon Recipes to Try

Once you master the basics, get creative with these flavorful recipes:

• Lemon Garlic Salmon – Top fillets with minced garlic, lemon zest, juice and chopped parsley.

• Salmon Burgers – Make patties from minced salmon, breadcrumbs, egg and seasonings.

• Teriyaki Salmon – Marinate fillets in teriyaki sauce for 1 hour before air frying.

• Pesto Salmon – Brush fillets with pesto sauce 5 minutes before done cooking.

• Cajun Salmon – Season with Cajun seasoning and serve with remoulade sauce.

• Salmon Tacos – Dice air fried salmon and add to warmed corn tortillas with pico and guacamole.

• Salmon Fish Sticks – Cut salmon into sticks, coat in panko crumbs, and cook until crispy.

So get ready to enjoy restaurant-quality salmon entrees in the comfort of your own home! With an instant vortex air fryer and these handy tips, you can easily achieve tender, flaky and delicious salmon for any occasion.