Air Fryer Salmon Steaks

Why we love these air fryer salmon steaks?

Elegant but effortless: That is the perfect way to describe the best air fryer salmon steaks!

This healthy and delicious air-fried salmon steak is a foolproof dinner to make in just 20 minutes from start to finish. Really! First, we marinate the pieces of fish in a tangy blend of soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and common spices.

With just a couple of swaps, this can easily be made a keto and gluten-free recipe, too! Marinating is an optional step, but it is highly suggested if you have the time.

Then quickly air fry the salmon steaks for only 10 minutes. Before you know it the moist, perfectly flaky, and amazingly flavorful steaks are ready to serve with any number of sides.

They are so fast and easy to prepare - this family favorite recipe is great for weeknight dinners. It's even a winner to include in your weekly meal prep plans!

*For more easy and more delicious dinner dishes, also try these recipes:

• Baked Meatballs
• Asian Salmon with Sesame Ginger Soy Sauce
• Easy Beef and Broccoli Recipe
• Tomato Spinach Pasta
• Air Fryer Bone-In Chicken Thighs
• Healthy Homemade Vegetable Soup

• Salmon Steaks: For the best taste, wild-caught king, coho, or sockeye salmon is best. Fresh or previously frozen fish will do. Like most skin-on air fryer salmon recipes, you want to thaw the fish before cooking, if frozen.
• Salt and Pepper: A bit of each of these classic seasonings makes all of the ingredients pop.
• Olive Oil: Choose a high-quality oil to compliment the salmon. Alternatively, use other high-heat neutral oil like canola or avocado oil.
• Soy Sauce: Salty with deep umami flavors. You can swap with tamari (gluten-free!) or coconut aminos (keto!) for a similar taste.
• Dijon Mustard: Tangy and bright, mustard gives the marinade a delicious punch.
• Smoked Paprika: The smokiness highlights the delicate flavor of the fish.
• Garlic Powder: Savory, earthy, and a must-have in most of the best recipes!
• Sugar: A bit to balance the vibrant, salty and savory flavors.

How to cook salmon steak in air fryer?

1. To start with, pat dry the salmon steaks on both sides using paper towel.

2. Sprinkle little salt and freshly ground pepper on both the sides and set it aside for 5 minutes.

3. Preheat the air fryer at 400 degrees (default is 3 minutes for the model I own).

4. Combine olive oil, soy sauce (or tamari), dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, sugar, and season with salt and pepper in a small bowl.

5. Brush the salmon with prepared marinade on both sides.

Tip: I prefer to let the salmon marinate for 10 minutes in the refrigerator, though this is optional. You can air fry it directly.

6. Spray the base of the basket with a little oil, and place the salmon steaks in the air fryer.

7. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked (cooking time may vary as per the size and thickness of the steaks). Check for the desired doneness of the salmon using a fork and pop the basket back into the air fryer for further 1-2 minutes, if needed.

Note: We love to air fry fish steaks for an extra 1 minute for crispier skin and edges (optional).

Expert Tips

• Although optional, if you have the time, I recommend you marinate the steak for 10 minutes so they absorb the flavors better.
• To get crispy salmon skin, avoid overcrowding the fryer basket. When cooking salmon in air-fryer, you want to be sure they do not touch.
• Speaking of, air fry multiple pieces in batches if feeding a large crowd.
• Keep an eye on the clock so as not to overcook the salmon. They should be in the fryer for 8 to 10 minutes, max. You know the steaks are done when they reach an internal temperature of 135 degrees F.
• Mix things up and make this salmon recipe with other seasoning blends. Like our Oven Baked Salmon Recipe, you can use nearly any flavorful spice combination! Try Peri Peri spices, Cajun seasoning, curry powder, or other spices you prefer. If you do swap the seasonings, you might consider skipping the soy sauce and Dijon mustard in this original recipe.
• Substitute steaks with skin-on salmon fillets if more readily available.

Serving Ideas

The flavorful and healthy air fryer salmon steaks are delicious to pair with simple grains and pasta that really let the seasonings shine. Enjoy with white or brown rice, risotto, farro, Instant Pot Quinoa, other ancient grains, or any noodles you like!

Sometimes we like to balance the healthier fish with more starchy and carb-a-licious sides... Try these Roasted Potatoes and Carrots, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, or Warm Roasted Purple Potato Salad recipes.

Either way, it is also (and always!) a good idea to include some veggies on the plate. We love nutritious side dishes like Oven Roasted Vegetables, Oven Roasted Asparagus, Crisp Roasted Brussels Sprouts, and this Mixed Green Salad.

For a healthy and well-balanced hearty meal, serve these salmon steaks with salad like Tomato Corn Avocado Salad, Mango Salad or Dill Potato Salad. Or, top this air-fried salmon with sweet and tangy salsas and enjoy!

And leftovers are also great for meal prepping! Add chilled salmon to lunch salads, wraps, or sandwiches.

Storage, Freezing and Reheating

To store leftovers: Cool the steaks at room temperature. Transfer to an air-tight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To freeze: Place the room temp salmon in a plastic zipper bag. Gently squeeze to remove any air as you seal it shut. Freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat salmon: Air fry for 3-4 minutes at 350 degrees F. If reheating from frozen, cook for 12-15 minutes until heated through.