When I first started experimenting with cooking frozen fish, I was skeptical. How could something straight from the freezer turn into a flaky, flavorful salmon without thawing? But after a few tries, I discovered the magic of the air fryer. It’s fast, efficient, and brings out the natural taste of salmon without any fuss. Cooking salmon this way has become my go-to method for busy weeknights when I want a healthy, satisfying meal in less than 20 minutes.
I love how versatile this method is. You can season your salmon simply with salt and pepper, or get creative with marinades and spices. Using an air fryer locks in the moisture while giving a lightly crisp exterior that rivals pan-seared salmon. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that makes me feel like a kitchen pro without needing hours of prep or special skills.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Frozen Salmon Fillets: The star of the dish, frozen salmon fillets are convenient and preserve freshness. They cook beautifully in the air fryer, producing tender, juicy flesh without thawing, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a subtle richness to the salmon and helps the seasonings stick. It also promotes a lightly crispy exterior while keeping the fish moist on the inside.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of salmon and balances its natural richness. A squeeze of lemon before or after cooking gives a fresh, zesty punch that elevates the entire dish.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds savory depth and a mild, aromatic flavor. It blends well with the salmon, giving a subtle seasoning that enhances rather than overpowers the natural taste.
Paprika: Paprika brings a hint of smokiness and a beautiful color to your salmon. Whether you choose sweet or smoked paprika, it adds warmth and visual appeal to the finished fillet.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings, salt enhances the salmon’s natural flavor, while black pepper adds a gentle kick. Together, they create a balanced taste foundation for the dish.
Ingredients List
- 2 frozen salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and develops a nice texture on the outside.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the frozen salmon fillets lightly with a paper towel to remove any excess ice. Brush each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the surface. Drizzle with lemon juice for added brightness.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate, ensuring the salmon cooks evenly.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Air fry the salmon at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Squeeze extra lemon juice on top if desired.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Do not thaw the salmon before cooking; the air fryer works best with frozen fillets.
- Use a thermometer to ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked.
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme.
- Avoid stacking fillets in the basket; air circulation is key for even cooking.
- You can brush a little honey or mustard on the salmon for a sweet-savory twist.
- Clean the air fryer basket immediately after cooking to prevent leftover fish oils from smoking during your next use.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon with skin on?
Yes, leaving the skin on helps lock in moisture and can add a crisp texture when air fried.
Do I need to thaw the salmon first?
No, this recipe is designed for cooking salmon straight from the freezer.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use seasonings other than garlic and paprika?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with Cajun spices, lemon pepper, or your favorite seafood rubs.
How long can I store leftover cooked salmon?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently to maintain moisture.