For those craving the perfect salmon dish, a crispy crust can make all the difference. With a few simple tips and tricks, anyone can achieve a mouth-watering, moist, and crispy air fryer salmon that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
“This air fryer salmon recipe is the secret to a moist and crispy filet that tastes like a million bucks – in under 15 minutes! Perfect for an easy and healthy weeknight dinner recipe for the family.”
— Lisa Bryan, Downshiftology
One of the most common challenges of cooking salmon is achieving a crispy crust without drying out the fish. To combat this, Lisa Bryan, the culinary expert behind Downshiftology, recommends using an air fryer to cook the salmon. By incorporating the right seasoning and using an air fryer, the salmon is cooked to perfection in under 15 minutes.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel before cooking to remove excess moisture and help the crust form more evenly.
- Coat the salmon with Dijon mustard before air frying to lock in moisture and add a burst of flavor. The mustard also helps to create a caramelized crust on the salmon.
- Season the salmon with salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika to add depth and complexity to the dish.
- Spray the salmon with olive oil to maintain its moisture and help the crust form.
A key component of Lisa’s recipe is using Dijon mustard to keep the salmon moist and add flavor. The mustard not only helps to retain moisture but also merges with the salmon’s natural fats, ensuring the fish remains succulent inside while forming a delectable crust outside due to the sugars in the mustard caramelizing during cooking.
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Salmon fillets | 4 fillets (6 oz each) |
| Olive oil | 2-3 teaspoons |
| Garlic | 1-2 cloves |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
With these simple tips and the right ingredients, anyone can achieve a mouth-watering, moist, and crispy air fryer salmon that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
