Air Fryer Salmon from Frozen
In this article, we will explore the wonderful world of cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer. If you’re a seafood lover, you know that salmon is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. But what if you forgot to defrost your salmon? Don’t worry, because with an air fryer, you can still enjoy a perfectly cooked salmon fillet straight from the freezer.
Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Before we delve into the details of cooking frozen salmon in an air fryer, let’s talk about why an air fryer is a great kitchen appliance to invest in. An air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in crispy and flavorful dishes without the need for excessive oil. It’s a healthier alternative to deep frying, and it can cook a wide variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, and even desserts.
Cooking Frozen Salmon in an Air Fryer
Now that we understand the benefits of using an air fryer, let’s get to the main event: cooking frozen salmon. The first step is to preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature. While your air fryer is heating up, take the frozen salmon fillet out of its packaging and place it on a piece of parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking.
Once the air fryer is preheated, place the salmon fillet in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking. Close the air fryer and set the cooking time according to the thickness of the salmon fillet. As a general rule, cook the salmon for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
During the cooking process, you may choose to brush the salmon with a marinade or sauce to enhance the flavor. This is optional but can add an extra layer of deliciousness to your dish. Just remember to baste the salmon halfway through cooking to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Checking for Doneness
After the recommended cooking time, it’s important to check if the salmon is fully cooked. Using a fork, gently flake the fish to see if it easily separates into flakes. If the salmon is opaque and flakes easily, it’s done. If not, you may need to cook it for a few more minutes. Remember, the cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillet, so it’s always a good idea to check for doneness before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! You can follow the same steps outlined in this article using fresh salmon. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use foil instead of parchment paper?
A: Yes, you can use foil instead of parchment paper. Just make sure to lightly oil the foil to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I season the salmon before cooking?
A: Yes, feel free to season the salmon with your favorite herbs and spices before cooking. This will add extra flavor to your dish.
Q: Can I use a marinade with high sugar content?
A: It’s best to avoid marinades with high sugar content, as they can cause the salmon to burn. Stick to marinades that are low in sugar or use them sparingly.
Q: Can I cook frozen salmon without preheating the air fryer?
A: While preheating is recommended for optimal results, you can still cook frozen salmon in an air fryer without preheating. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly longer.
Q: Can I cook other types of frozen fish in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! The same principles apply to cooking other types of frozen fish in an air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use a wet marinade for the salmon?
A: It’s best to use a dry rub or a marinade that is not too watery, as excessive moisture can affect the crispiness of the salmon.
Q: Can I cook frozen salmon in an oven instead?
A: Yes, you can cook frozen salmon in an oven as well. However, the air fryer provides a quicker and more convenient cooking method.
Conclusion
With an air fryer, cooking frozen salmon has never been easier. The hot air circulation ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and retains its moisture, resulting in a delicious and healthy meal. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply looking for a quick and convenient way to cook frozen salmon, an air fryer is a fantastic kitchen appliance to have. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a perfectly cooked salmon fillet straight from the freezer!
Air Fryer Salmon from Frozen
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons of minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of freeze-dried dill
- 2 (12 ounce) skin-on frozen salmon fillets
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F (199 degrees C).
- In a small bowl, combine mustard, brown sugar, garlic, salt, pepper, and dill. Whisk together until well mixed. Set aside.
- Place the salmon, flesh-side down, in the basket of the air fryer.
- Cook the salmon for 6 minutes.
- Flip the salmon over and brush 1/4 of the sauce on top of each fillet.
- Cook the salmon for an additional 6 minutes.
- Brush the remaining sauce over the fillets.
- Continue cooking until the salmon easily flakes with a fork, which should take about 3 to 4 more minutes.
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