I remember the first time I tried cooking salmon in an air fryer. I was skeptical. Air fryers were this new kitchen gadget that everyone seemed to rave about, but could they really replace traditional cooking methods? One evening, after a long day, I decided to give it a shot. I followed Jamie Oliver’s recipe for air fryer salmon, and the results blew me away. The salmon turned out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. It was fast, easy, and tasted like something straight out of a restaurant. Since then, air fryer salmon has become a staple in my kitchen. I can’t believe how quick and foolproof it is to make a perfectly cooked salmon fillet!
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Jamie Oliver is known for making everyday meals feel a bit more special, and his air fryer salmon recipe is no exception. The key to his recipe is simplicity-letting the fresh flavors of the fish shine through. He uses an air fryer, which is perfect for getting that crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. The ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe doesn’t take more than 20 minutes from start to finish.
I’ve cooked this salmon so many times now, and every time it’s a hit. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms a simple piece of fish into something truly special with just a few basic ingredients.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie Oliver’s air fryer salmon recipe:
- Salmon Fillets: Fresh, skin-on fillets work best. The skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
- Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps crisp the skin.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch.
- Lemon: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the salmon’s flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Jamie recommends fresh parsley, but dill or thyme works well too.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the fish and bring out all the natural flavors.
- Optional: A sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat, or a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
These are the basics that make up the recipe. I always make sure to use high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic because they really elevate the flavors. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have, but I find that keeping things simple works best.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon
Making Jamie Oliver’s air fryer salmon is ridiculously simple. Here’s how you can do it:
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Prepare The Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a crispy exterior.
- Rub both sides of the fillets with a little olive oil. This helps the salmon crisp up in the air fryer.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
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Air Fry
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F). This high temperature ensures a crispy outside while keeping the fish moist.
- Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket so the air circulates properly.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish should flake easily with a fork when it’s done.
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Finish & Serve
- Once the salmon is cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and sprinkle with fresh herbs. You can also add a little extra salt if needed.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a light salad.
It’s as simple as that. Once you’ve made it once, it’ll become a go-to meal. No mess, no fuss, and minimal cleanup.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a moment to dive into why these ingredients work so well together. The science behind Jamie’s air fryer salmon recipe is all about balancing moisture and texture.
- Salmon: Naturally rich in healthy fats, particularly omega-3s, salmon is a great choice for quick, nutritious meals. The fat content in the fish helps keep it moist while cooking, especially in the air fryer.
- Olive Oil: It’s not just for flavor; the fat in olive oil helps crisp up the skin. Air fryers circulate hot air to create a crispy texture, and the oil ensures that the skin doesn’t dry out.
- Garlic: This adds a savory, aromatic note that complements the salmon’s natural flavors. Garlic also has compounds that enhance the flavors of both the fish and the other ingredients.
- Lemon: A dash of acidity from lemon helps balance the richness of the salmon. The citrus also brightens the flavors and gives a fresh, light finish to the dish.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add color and a burst of freshness. They’re packed with antioxidants and essential oils that boost the overall flavor of the dish.
This combination of ingredients not only creates a great tasting dish but also ensures that it’s healthy and satisfying.
Expert Tips
After making Jamie’s air fryer salmon recipe multiple times, I’ve learned a few things that make it even better:
- Don’t skip drying the salmon: Patting the fillets dry removes excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp up.
- Air fryer temperature: Make sure the air fryer is fully preheated before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect crispness.
- Adjust cook time based on thickness: Thicker fillets may need a little extra time, while thinner ones will cook faster.
- Let the salmon rest: After air frying, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the salmon more tender.
- Experiment with seasonings: Try adding a bit of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or some fresh dill for a more herby touch.
Recipe Variations
One of the things I love about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some fun variations I’ve tried:
- Crispy Skin: If you’re a fan of ultra-crispy skin, try flipping the salmon halfway through cooking. This allows both sides to get nice and crispy.
- Honey and Soy Glaze: For a touch of sweetness and umami, brush the salmon with a honey-soy mixture before air frying. It caramelizes perfectly in the air fryer.
- Spicy: Add a little chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat. Or drizzle with sriracha after cooking for an extra kick.
- Garlic Parmesan: For a richer flavor, top the salmon with grated parmesan and minced garlic before air frying. The cheese creates a crispy, golden crust.
Final Words
What I love most about Jamie Oliver’s air fryer salmon recipe is how accessible and adaptable it is. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, it’s a recipe that anyone can nail. It’s quick, healthy, and can easily be tweaked to fit your tastes. Plus, the air fryer does most of the work, so you get a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish with very little effort.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Cook Salmon In An Air Fryer?
It takes about 10-12 minutes to cook salmon in an air fryer, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
Do I Need To Marinate The Salmon Before Cooking?
While marinating is optional, it adds extra flavor. Jamie recommends a simple seasoning with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
At What Temperature Should I Cook Salmon In An Air Fryer?
Jamie suggests cooking the salmon at 180°C (350°F) for the best results.