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Air Fryer Cajun Salmon Recipe

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This Air Fryer Cajun Salmon recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon fillets seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices and smoked paprika. Cooked in the air fryer at 400°F, the salmon remains tender and flaky, accented by fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh finish. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe can also be adapted for oven baking.

Ingredients

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 4 salmon fillets, 6 oz each (1 1/2-inches thick)
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp light brown sugar
  • 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
  • 1 tsp granulated garlic or garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp lemon pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust depending on sodium in seasoning)

Garnish and Extras

  • 2 large lemons, thinly sliced
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or tarragon/chives as alternative)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F and spray the basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Salmon: Brush salmon fillets with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix remaining olive oil with brown sugar, Cajun or Creole seasoning, granulated garlic, smoked paprika, lemon pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning mixture onto all sides of the salmon fillets evenly.
  3. Arrange in Air Fryer: Place lemon slices in the bottom of the air fryer basket in a single layer. Then, place the seasoned salmon fillets on top, skin side down.
  4. Cook Salmon: Air fry the salmon for 7-9 minutes, depending on fillet thickness. The salmon is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F and it flakes easily with a fork. Adjust cook time for thicker or thinner pieces, and cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  5. Serve: Immediately garnish the cooked salmon with fresh chopped parsley and extra lemon slices if desired. Serve warm for best flavor.
  6. Alternative Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F. Prepare a rimmed sheet pan with nonstick spray or oil. Arrange lemon slices in a single layer on the pan. Place seasoned salmon fillets on top and bake for 15-18 minutes until the salmon flakes easily and reaches 145°F internally.

Notes

  • Cajun Seasoning: Use your preferred Cajun or Creole seasoning blend. Brands like Tony Chachere’s or Zatarain’s are common. Old Bay seasoning is a viable substitute.
  • Oil Substitution: Avocado oil may be used instead of olive oil for brushing and mixing the spice rub.
  • Salmon Fillets: Choose fillets similar in size and thickness (around 1 1/2 inches) to ensure even cooking. Cubed salmon pieces (1-inch cubes) also work well, especially for making bites.
  • Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to maintain proper air circulation and even cooking. Cook fillets in batches if needed.
  • Salt: Adjust the salt amount depending on the sodium content of your chosen seasoning blend; some seasoned salts may eliminate the need for added salt.
  • Herbs: Fresh parsley is recommended for garnish, but fresh tarragon or chives make excellent alternatives.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/air-fryer-cajun-salmon-recipe/