Salmon is one of the most nutritionally packed fish out there. It is highly recommended as part of a balanced diet because it is an excellent source of protein, heart-healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals.
There are so many ways to prepare salmon to fit whatever your taste preference may be. I am going to share one of my favorite go-to salmon variations – Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon.
This teriyaki salmon recipe will please the whole family – even the kiddos! The teriyaki marinade is sweet, salty, and savory, all while keeping the salmon filets juicy and tender. And, one of the best parts about salmon is that it cooks in only 10 minutes.
Health Benefits of Salmon
What makes salmon different from other fish or animal proteins out there? Well, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are the good fats that are known to play a role in cardiovascular and cognitive health.
These omega-3s are beneficial to our health because they are known to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, improve memory and cognition, and reduce heart-related medical conditions.
It is important to note that wild and farmed salmon filets are nutritionally very different. Wild salmon filets will contain much more omega-3s and calcium than farmed salmon. This is largely due to the diets of these two fish.
Farmed salmon are typically fed processed fish feed, while wild salmon have a much more diverse and natural diet.
Why Air Fry My Salmon?
Let’s face it – when it comes to fish, the texture is critical. Nobody wants to indulge in seafood that feels slimy or rubbery. Oftentimes, salmon filets are baked in the oven, however, baking them in the air fryer creates a much more desirable mouthfeel!
The salmon will have a crispy texture on the outside while remaining juicy and flakey on the inside. After cooking your salmon in the air fryer, I can guarantee you will never want to make it any other way.
Aside from the delicious flavor of air fryer salmon, there are a few more perks. Using an air fryer means that your salmon will cook in less than 10 minutes. And – my favorite part, clean-up is fast and easy, with little to no mess.
On The Side
Need some ideas on what would pair well with your air fryer salmon? Try out one of these delicious side dishes.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you are looking for a side dish that is low in carbs, all whilst packing in flavor, then you should definitely give this recipe a try.
- Mushroom Rice Pilaf: For a side dish that is a bit more filling, this rice pilaf will leave you perfectly satiated. The mushrooms in the rice complement perfectly with the sweetness of the teriyaki salmon.
- Asian Style Broccolini: If you are a vegetable lover, you won’t be disappointed with this tasty broccolini recipe.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: For more of a light and refreshing option, this cucumber salad is the way to go.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 Atlantic Salmon Filets - about 5-6 oz each
- 4 sprigs green onion, chopped - for garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds - for garnish
Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1 cup lower-sodium soy sauce - or Tamari for gluten-free
- ¼ cup white rice vinegar
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp minced ginger
- 2 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all of the teriyaki sauce ingredients. Whisk until all of the cornstarch and sugar is dissolved.
- Place the salmon fillets into a large Ziploc bag and pour about half of the teriyaki sauce into the bag. Let the salmon marinate for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer basket to 400°. Once preheated, line a piece of parchment paper over the bottom of the basket.
- Place the salmon on the parchment paper, skin side up and air fry for 6-7 minutes.
- While the salmon is cooking, heat the remaining teriyaki sauce in a saucepan over medium heat on the stove.
- Turn the salmon fillets to the other side and brush more teriyaki sauce over the salmon. Air fry the salmon for an additional 4 minutes, or until the minimum internal temperature reaches 145°.
- Remove the salmon from the air fryer, glaze with additional teriyaki sauce and garnish with chopped green onion and sesame seeds.
Notes
- If salmon is frozen, defrost first for best results.
- For the most tender and juicy salmon, use salmon that has the skin on it. It helps to lock in the moisture and oils.
