Introduction

The Teriyaki Salmon in the air fryer is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Japan with the ease of modern cooking. This recipe showcases tender salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, perfectly cooked in an air fryer for a healthy and quick meal option. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Salmon fillets – 4 pieces (approximately 6 ounces each)
Teriyaki sauce – 1/2 cup
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated
Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon (for garnish)
Green onions – 2, chopped (for garnish)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Salmon

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a nice crisp texture when cooking.

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and minced garlic. This will be the marinade for the salmon.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the bowl with the teriyaki sauce. Make sure the fillets are well-coated. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to around 200°C (about 400°F) for approximately 5 minutes.

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.

Cook the Salmon

Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Check for Doneness

Check the internal temperature of the salmon to ensure it has reached 63°C (145°F). The salmon should be flaky and opaque.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce if desired and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

Choosing Salmon

Select fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.

Marinating Time

For better flavor, consider marinating the salmon for longer than 15 minutes, up to 1 hour if time allows.

Air Fryer Variations

Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model, so keep an eye on the salmon while it cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the teriyaki salmon with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Air Frying

Air frying is a cooking technique that uses hot air circulation to cook food, providing a crispy texture similar to frying but with less oil. This method is ideal for preparing salmon, resulting in a delightfully tender and succulent dish.

Marination

Marinating the salmon in a teriyaki sauce enhances its flavor profile and tenderizes the fish. Allowing it to rest in the marinade for an adequate period is crucial to absorbing the flavors fully.

Preparation of Teriyaki Sauce

Homemade teriyaki sauce can elevate the dish. It typically combines soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, offering a balance of sweet and savory tastes that wonderfully compliment the salmon.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Adjusting the cooking time and temperature in your air fryer is key to achieving the perfect salmon. A careful balance ensures the fish cooks through while maintaining its moisture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon; however, it should be thoroughly thawed before marinating and cooking for the best results.

What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?

If you don’t have teriyaki sauce, you can create a simple substitute using soy sauce, honey, and a touch of ginger or garlic.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked properly?

Salmon is properly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I cook vegetables in the air fryer with the salmon?

Yes, cooking vegetables alongside the salmon in the air fryer can make for a complete meal. Just ensure the vegetables require similar cooking times.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The teriyaki salmon can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with tender salmon. Its quick cooking time in the air fryer makes it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner, while still offering a gourmet experience. This recipe not only allows for a juicy and flavorful salmon but also provides a healthier cooking method with less oil.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Honey Garlic Shrimp

A sweet and savory shrimp dish that complements the teriyaki flavors well, ideal for serving alongside rice or noodles.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Marinated chicken in teriyaki sauce yields a juicy and flavorful meal, perfect for those who enjoy a meaty contrast to fish.

Vegetable Stir-Fry

Add a side of vegetable stir-fry for a vibrant and colorful mix that enhances the overall meal presentation.

Teriyaki Tofu

For a vegetarian option, teriyaki tofu can be grilled or air-fried for a fulfilling and protein-rich dish.

Sesame Steamed Broccoli

This side dish with a hint of sesame pairs beautifully with teriyaki flavors, adding nutrition and crunch to your meal.

Rice Paper Spring Rolls

Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables and served with a dipping sauce make a delightful appetizer before the main course.