Craving a healthy, delicious, and quick dinner? Look no further! This air fryer teriyaki salmon recipe is your answer. Forget greasy takeout; this homemade version is bursting with flavor, cooks in minutes, and requires minimal cleanup. It’s the perfect easy recipe for a weeknight meal, impressing even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals made simple.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker glaze)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk in the cornstarch.
Cooking the Salmon:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Ensure they aren't overcrowded; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
- Brush the salmon generously with the teriyaki marinade, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Air fry for 8-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets and your air fryer model. Check for doneness at the 8-minute mark.
Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. This delicious dish is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a more elaborate meal.
Cooking Tips for Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding will prevent proper air circulation and result in unevenly cooked salmon. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require longer cooking times. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra brightness.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Version: If you don't have an air fryer, you can easily bake this salmon in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Glaze variations: Experiment with different types of honey (e.g., buckwheat honey) or add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This teriyaki salmon recipe is a testament to how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes, offering a healthy and flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!