Air Fryer Salmon and Vegetables

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Salmon and Vegetables dish is the perfect balance of lean protein and fiber-rich veggies, making it both satisfying and nutritious. The air fryer does the work of crisping up the salmon and vegetables with minimal oil, keeping the meal light and healthy. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can mix and match your favorite veggies to make it your own. Plus, the entire meal cooks in one appliance, cutting down on both cook time and cleanup.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the salmon)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for the vegetables)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

2. Prepare the salmon fillets by brushing them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest, oregano, and paprika. Set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, toss the zucchini, red bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down (if using skin-on salmon), and arrange the vegetables around the salmon. Try to leave some space between the salmon and veggies to allow air to circulate and cook everything evenly.

5. Air fry the salmon and vegetables for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 145°F). The vegetables should be tender and slightly crispy.

6. Carefully remove the salmon and vegetables from the air fryer and serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 15-18 minutes

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 10-12 minutes

Variations

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for extra flavor and texture.

• Change up the seasoning: You can try different seasoning blends like Cajun, Italian herbs, or even a dash of chili powder for a smoky kick.

• Swap salmon for other fish: While salmon is the star here, you can use other fish like cod, trout, or tilapia with similar cooking times.

• Add a sauce: Top the finished dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, tahini sauce, or a lemon-dill sauce for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Air Fryer Salmon and Vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon and vegetables back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F to warm through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Ensure the salmon is cooked through by checking its internal temperature (145°F).

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that some vegetables may need a slightly different cooking time.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check.

Can I cook everything in one batch?

While you can cook everything together, be mindful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the salmon and vegetables in two batches to ensure they cook evenly.

Can I make this recipe without oil?

Yes, you can skip the oil if you prefer, though the salmon and veggies may not get as crispy. You could also use a spray bottle for a lighter coat of oil.

Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes! You can cook the salmon and vegetables on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.

Can I use skinless salmon fillets?

Yes, skinless salmon works just as well in this recipe. The cooking time will be similar, but make sure to check for doneness by flaking the salmon with a fork.

How do I prevent the vegetables from overcooking?

If you’re using quicker-cooking vegetables (like tomatoes or zucchini), you can add them to the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Can I serve this with a side dish?

Yes, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a light couscous. You could also serve it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Just be sure to leave space between the salmon and vegetables for even cooking.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Salmon and Vegetables is the ultimate quick and healthy meal that delivers on flavor and nutrition. With minimal effort, you can enjoy perfectly cooked salmon paired with crispy vegetables, all made in the air fryer. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dish that works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. Full of vibrant colors and bold flavors, this meal will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.