Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. The salmon is perfectly cooked with a crispy exterior and tender inside, while the vegetables stay crisp and flavorful. The homemade sauce brings a sweet and savory kick, making each bite burst with flavor. Plus, with minimal prep time and no need to heat up the oven, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a healthy, hassle-free dinner.

Ingredients

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

For the Salmon and Vegetables:

3 skinless salmon fillets
2 red bell peppers, sliced
1 head broccoli, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons corn starch
Pinch of red pepper flakes

For the Garnish:

Sesame seeds
Fresh chives

Directions

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables: Toss the sliced red bell peppers and chopped broccoli in olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Cook the Salmon and Vegetables: Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if applicable. Arrange the vegetables around the salmon. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the vegetables are tender and slightly crispy.
Make the Sauce: While the salmon and vegetables are cooking, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, corn starch, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture begins to simmer and thicken (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat.
Serve: Once the salmon and vegetables are cooked, plate them and drizzle the sauce over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh chives for an added burst of flavor and color.
Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious air fryer meal!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the red bell peppers and broccoli for other vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or carrots. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little extra brown sugar. For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha.
Protein Alternatives: You can use other types of fish, like cod or tilapia, or even chicken breasts as a substitute for salmon.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make the sauce gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon and vegetables in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Be cautious not to overcook the salmon during reheating to keep it moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, and ensure the salmon is fully cooked through before serving.

Can I make this recipe without a sauce?

Absolutely! You can season the salmon and vegetables with just olive oil, salt, and pepper, or use your favorite seasoning blend. The sauce adds extra flavor, but the dish is still delicious without it.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use any oil you prefer, such as avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or vegetable oil. Olive oil is the most common choice for its mild flavor, but any oil with a high smoke point will work.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the salmon and vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Can I add more garlic to the sauce?

Yes, you can add more garlic if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor. Just adjust to your taste.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can add vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or baby carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.

Can I use a different type of protein?

Yes, this recipe is versatile. You can substitute the salmon with chicken breasts, shrimp, or tofu, depending on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative in the sauce.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce, or drizzle a bit of sriracha sauce over the salmon before serving.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe is already dairy-free, so you don’t need to make any changes to enjoy it.

Conclusion

Easy Air Fryer Salmon and Vegetables is the perfect quick and healthy meal for busy days. With flavorful salmon, crisp vegetables, and a tangy-sweet homemade sauce, it’s a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, this recipe will become a go-to for weeknight dinners. Simple, nutritious, and absolutely delicious!