I remember the first time I tried an air fryer. It was one of those "I don’t know what I’m doing but I need to try this" moments. I tossed some frozen fries in, set the timer, and watched in awe as they crisped up perfectly. Since then, I’ve been hooked on air frying, especially for quick meals that still feel special.
One of my favorite recipes to make is Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor. The best part? It cooks in just about 10 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or even a lazy weekend meal. If you love salmon and want something easy yet impressive, this recipe is a must-try.
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Jamie Oliver is known for creating approachable, delicious recipes, and his air fryer salmon dish is no exception. What I love about it is how it brings out the natural flavors of the fish while keeping things light and fresh. It’s one of those dishes that looks and tastes gourmet, but you barely have to lift a finger.
Here’s what makes this recipe stand out:
- Quick and easy: You’ll have dinner on the table in 10 minutes.
- Flaky, juicy salmon: The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a crisp skin.
- Versatile: You can pair it with pretty much anything – from roasted veggies to a simple salad.
Ingredients Needed
When I first read through the ingredient list, I thought it was too simple. But that’s the genius of it. The beauty of Jamie’s air fryer salmon is in how a few basic ingredients come together to create something amazing.
You’ll need:
- Salmon fillets (skin-on works best for a crispy finish)
- Olive oil (or your favorite cooking oil)
- Lemon (fresh, for zest and juice)
- Garlic (minced, for that aromatic kick)
- Herbs (like thyme, parsley, or rosemary – fresh or dried)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
That’s it. Nothing fancy, but when combined, it creates a perfect balance of flavors.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Salmon
The first time I made this recipe, I was shocked at how easy it was to pull off.
Here’s how you do it:
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Prep The Salmon
- Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is key for getting that crispy skin.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the fillets and rub it in. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a golden, crispy finish.
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Season The Fillets
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salmon.
- Mince the garlic and zest the lemon. I love using a microplane for zest-it’s so much easier. Rub the garlic and lemon zest into the fillets.
- Squeeze a bit of lemon juice on top. This gives a fresh, tangy kick.
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Place The Salmon In The Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 180°C (350°F).
- Put the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. You don’t need to overcrowd the basket-if you’re cooking multiple pieces, do them in batches.
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Cook
- Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. It should be perfectly cooked through, tender, and slightly crispy on the outside.
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Serve
- Once the salmon is done, squeeze some more fresh lemon juice over it and garnish with herbs like parsley or thyme.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
The science behind this recipe is what makes it so effective in such a short time. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and how they work:
- Salmon: The fat content in salmon helps it stay moist during cooking. The air fryer creates hot circulating air, which crisps up the skin while keeping the fish tender inside. The skin acts as a protective layer, locking in moisture.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which help conduct heat evenly across the fish and contribute to that crispy exterior. Plus, it adds a delicious, mild flavor.
- Lemon: The acidity from the lemon juice helps to brighten the flavor of the salmon. The zest, on the other hand, contains essential oils that infuse the fish with a citrusy aroma.
- Garlic: This adds a savory depth to the dish. The heat from the air fryer helps release the aromatic oils in garlic, enhancing its flavor without overpowering the fish.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are a game-changer here. They provide both fragrance and flavor, and the air fryer’s heat helps release their essential oils for an intense burst of freshness.
Expert Tips
To make sure you get the best possible salmon, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: For crispy skin, it’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket. If you have too many fillets, the hot air can’t circulate properly, and the salmon won’t crisp up as well.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the fish. It should come apart easily and have a slightly translucent center.
- Rest the salmon: After cooking, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- Play with seasoning: Experiment with different herbs or spices. Dill, thyme, or even smoked paprika can add a nice twist.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie’s recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to put your personal spin on it:
- Spicy version: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or paprika to the seasoning for a little heat.
- Asian twist: Marinate the salmon in soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger before air frying. Top with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Honey mustard glaze: Mix Dijon mustard with honey and brush it over the salmon before cooking for a sweet and tangy crust.
- Crispy skin lovers: Coat the skin with a light dusting of cornmeal or breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy texture.
Final Words
What I love about Jamie Oliver’s air fryer salmon is its simplicity. It’s a great example of how a few quality ingredients can create something that feels special without the hassle. Plus, it’s easy to customize. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, tangy, or herbaceous, this recipe can be adapted to your taste.
FAQs
How Long Do I Cook Jamie Oliver’s Salmon In The Air Fryer?
Cook the salmon for about 8-10 minutes at 180°C (350°F) in the air fryer. Check the thickness of the fish to adjust the time if needed.
Do I Need To Preheat The Air Fryer For Jamie Oliver’s Salmon Recipe?
Yes, it’s best to preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes before cooking for even results.
Can I Add Seasoning Or Marinade To The Salmon Before Air Frying?
Definitely! You can season or marinate the salmon with your favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor before air frying.