Spicy Air Fryer Salmon

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making Spicy Air Fryer Salmon on a busy weeknight. You know those days when you get home from work, tired but hungry, and you want something quick yet delicious? This dish has become my go-to. The first time I tried it, I was mesmerized by how the air fryer works its magic, turning succulent salmon into a crispy delight without all the fuss of traditional frying. I remember standing by the counter, anxiously waiting, and when I pulled that steaming basket out, my kitchen filled with such a tantalizing aroma that I couldn’t help but feel excited.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, I can serve up a dish that feels gourmet. The combination of kewpie mayo and sriracha brings a creaminess and a kick that elevates the salmon beautifully. It’s perfect when served over rice, soaking up all those flavors. Plus, there’s minimal cleanup involved, which is a huge win in my book! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether it’s a quiet dinner for two or a small gathering with friends, this Spicy Air Fryer Salmon can easily steal the show.

Ingredients for Spicy Air Fryer Salmon

When it comes to the ingredients for Spicy Air Fryer Salmon, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in creating a meal that’s both quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The star of the show, of course, is the salmon, which is complemented by a creamy, spicy sauce made from kewpie mayo and sriracha. The addition of sesame oil, salt, and black pepper rounds out the dish beautifully.

• 10 oz Salmon Fillets, skin on or off: The main ingredient, rich in flavor and packed with nutrients, perfect for air frying.
• ¼ cup Kewpie Mayo: This Japanese mayo is creamier than regular mayonnaise and adds a wonderful richness to the dish.
• 1 tbsp Sriracha: A spicy kick that elevates the dish, adjust the amount to your spice preference.
• ½ tsp Sesame Oil: Adds a lovely nuttiness and depth to the flavor.
• ¼ tsp Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
• ⅛ tsp Black Pepper: Offers a hint of heat and complexity to the seasoning.

How to Assemble Spicy Air Fryer Salmon

Cooking Spicy Air Fryer Salmon is as enjoyable as it is simple. I love how quickly the air fryer works while ensuring the salmon retains its moisture. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. Start by patting the salmon filets dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial because it helps the salmon achieve that crispy texture when air-fried.
2. Next, place the salmon skin side down (if skin is on) on a piece of parchment paper. This not only keeps the basket clean but also helps with easy removal once cooked.
3. In a small dish, combine kewpie mayo, sriracha, and sesame oil. Mix well until the ingredients are fully blended, and it becomes a smooth sauce.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of this spicy sauce over each salmon filet. It’s okay to be generous here; you want that flavor to seep into the fish.
5. Season the filets with salt and black pepper to taste. This will enhance the overall flavor profile of your Spicy Air Fryer Salmon.
6. Reserve any remaining sauce for later, as it can be used to drizzle over the finished dish.
7. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. Getting it to the right temperature is key to ensuring the salmon cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
8. Once preheated, place the basket in the air fryer and cook your salmon for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. I like to check around the 10-minute mark to see how it’s doing.
9. When it’s done, your salmon should flake easily with a fork. This is the perfect sign that it’s cooked just right.
10. Serve the salmon over a bed of rice, drizzling with the reserved sauce for that extra flavor punch!

Helpful Hints

Here are some additional tips to ensure your experience with Spicy Air Fryer Salmon is enjoyable and successful.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the salmon before cooking. Cooked salmon can lose its texture if frozen.
• Pairing: This dish goes well with steamed broccoli, jasmine rice, or a simple green salad.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your personal preference for heat.
• Garnishes: Consider garnishing with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

How to Enjoy Spicy Air Fryer Salmon

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Spicy Air Fryer Salmon, let’s talk about how to enjoy this delightful dish to the fullest.

• Serving Temperature: Always serve your salmon hot for the best flavor experience.
• Accompanying Dishes: It pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa, which can absorb the spicy sauce deliciously.
• Occasions: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, but also a great choice for casual gatherings and summer barbecues.
• Garnishing: Top with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.
• Leftovers: Use leftover salmon to make a refreshing salad the next day for lunch.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Spicy Air Fryer Salmon is a true gem in the world of quick weeknight meals. It perfectly balances flavor, health, and convenience, making it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s a dish that will impress both you and your guests. Trust me, once you experience the crispy, flavorful goodness of this salmon, you’ll be coming back for more!

Spicy Air Fryer Salmon

Craving something quick yet flavorful? The Spicy Air Fryer Salmon is your answer! It’s a delicious blend of creamy and spicy notes that make for an easy weeknight dinner. You won’t believe how simple it is to prepare this dish that'll have you reaching for seconds!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 3 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

• 10 oz Salmon Fillets skin on or off
• ¼ cup Kewpie Mayo
• 1 tbsp Sriracha more or less to taste
• ½ tsp Sesame Oil
• ¼ tsp Salt
• ⅛ tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

 

• Pat dry the salmon filets and place on a piece of parchment paper in the air fryer basket, skin side down.
• Combine the kewpie mayo, sriracha, and sesame oil in a small dish. Spread about 1 tbsp over each salmon filet, and then season with salt and black pepper. Reserve remaining sauce for later.
• Cook in the air fryer at 400 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes, or until cooked to your liking. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when cooked.
• Serve the salmon over rice with extra sauce on top if desired.

Notes

• Internal Temperature: Salmon is considered safe to eat after it’s been cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees F. That being said, I do prefer mine more about 130 degrees as I find it’s still moist and delicious.

Keyword air fryer salmon recipe, Easy Salmon Dinner, healthy salmon recipe, spicy salmon air fryer

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.