Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 2 · Technique: Air Frying · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
A delicious, quick-to-prepare teriyaki salmon cooked in an air fryer, perfect for busy weeknights and festive gatherings.
As the holiday season approaches in New York City, my kitchen becomes a hub of excitement, filled with the mouthwatering aromas of traditional dishes. One of my favorite quick recipes to whip up for friends and family is air fryer teriyaki salmon. It's not just easy to make but also remarkably flavorful, making it an ideal centerpiece for any holiday table or cozy dinner at home. Pair it with some steamed rice, and you've got yourself a delightful meal.
A Flavorful Feast for Any Occasion
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This air fryer teriyaki salmon is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The marinade infuses the salmon with rich, delicious flavors, elevating a simple dish to something special.
- Cooking in an air fryer results in a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon tender and flaky inside.
- It's a healthy option packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish looks as good as it tastes, impressing family and guests alike!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish:
Salmon and Marinade
- 2 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious air fryer teriyaki salmon:
Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until the honey is fully dissolved. The scent of minced garlic and ginger dancing in the air promises an aromatic delight.
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable bag, then pour the marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes-this step transforms the salmon into a flavorful centerpiece for your meal.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
While the salmon is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). The anticipation of what's to come fills my kitchen as I prepare for that crispy exterior.
Step 4: Prepare the Fillets
Once marinated, carefully remove the salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place the fillets in the air fryer basket. If you're using a Ninja air fryer or a similar model, line the basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 5: Cook the Salmon
Air fry the salmon for about 8-10 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. I love watching the fillets sizzle as they cook, and the heavenly aroma wafts throughout my apartment. They should emerge with a slight crispness on the outside yet tender and flaky within-just the way salmon should be.
Step 6: Add the Marinade Glaze
In the last minute of cooking, you can brush the reserved marinade over the salmon fillets for extra flavor. This caramelization is the key to that beautiful glossy finish.
Step 7: Serve
Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that extra burst of flavor and color. The vibrant, inviting display is enough to impress any holiday guests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the salmon: Keep a close watch on the cooking time to ensure it remains moist.
- Skipping the marination step: The marinade truly elevates the flavor, so don't rush this part.
- Using low-quality soy sauce: Opt for a good quality soy sauce for the best taste.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Choose salmon fillets with the skin on; it adds an extra layer of flavor and helps keep the fish moist.
- If you love a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick.
- Serve with steamed rice and your favorite greens for a complete meal.
- Marinating salmon overnight amplifies the flavors beautifully.
- Utilize your air fryer to save time on busy weeknights.
Variations
- Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
- Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
- Add orange juice to the marinade for a citrus twist.
- Incorporate different herbs like cilantro or lime for a fresh flavor.
How to Serve
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor.
- Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus.
- Serve over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa.
- Accompany with a light salad dressed in a vinaigrette.
- Include pickled vegetables for a crunchy side.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade a day in advance.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the salmon in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, keeping it juicy.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
I discovered that marinating salmon overnight amplifies the flavors beautifully, making it ideal for entertaining during the festive season. Plus, using the air fryer ensures dinner is ready in a flash, making it perfect even on busy weeknights when seasonal festivities ramp up!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 2 servings · Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 30g protein · 12g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Quick and Flavorful Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag, pour the marinade over, and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on desired doneness.
- In the last minute of cooking, brush some of the reserved marinade over the salmon for extra flavor.
- Remove the salmon once done, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve.
Notes
FAQs
How long should I marinate the salmon?
You should marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for the best flavor, but marinating overnight amplifies the flavors beautifully.
Can I use a different fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other firm white fish such as cod or halibut as alternatives to salmon, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as different fish may require different cooking times.
What should I serve with Teriyaki Salmon?
Teriyaki Salmon pairs well with steamed rice and your favorite greens, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
