This Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is a delightful dish that brings a sushi roll twist to your dinner table, making it perfect for any occasion. The crispy, blackened salmon is complemented by a refreshing cucumber, jalapeno, and avocado salad, all topped with a spicy creamy sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, ensuring that your family will love it any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a vibrant flavor profile that excites the palate.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and nutritious veggies, it’s a wholesome meal option.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or over rice for a satisfying bowl meal.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The hasselback style makes this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools is essential for making Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon efficiently. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: This tool cooks the salmon quickly while achieving that crispy texture without excess oil.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing the salmon into hasselback-style cuts easily.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl helps combine sauces and ingredients efficiently before adding them to the salmon.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 12 ounces salmon (skin on, two 6-ounce fillets)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
For the Sauce and Salad
- ¼ cup kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1.5 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup
For Toppings and Serving
- ½ cup English cucumber (diced small)
- 2 tablespoons jalapeno (finely diced)
- 1 small avocado (diced small)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh squeezed)
- pinch kosher salt (to taste)
- few turns cracked black pepper (to taste)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup rice (cooked)
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds (divided)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro (freshly chopped and divided)
How to Make Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillets on a cutting board skin-side down.
- Use a sharp knife to make several evenly spaced cuts along the top of each fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a mixing bowl, combine avocado oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne.
- Brush this mixture generously over both sides of the salmon fillets.
- Ensure that the seasoning gets into the cuts for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cook in Air Fryer
Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and has a crispy exterior.
- Check for doneness; it should flake easily with a fork.
Step 4: Prepare the Salad
While the salmon cooks, prepare your fresh salad toppings.
- In a separate bowl, mix together diced cucumber, jalapeno, avocado, lime juice, pinch of salt, and cracked black pepper.
- Toss gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
Step 5: Assemble Your Dish
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer.
- Serve each fillet over cooked rice in individual bowls.
- Top generously with your cucumber-jalapeno-avocado salad mixture.
- Drizzle with spicy creamy sauce made from kewpie mayo mixed with sriracha and soy sauce.
- Finish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon!
How to Serve Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
This Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. You can elevate your dining experience by pairing it with various sides or toppings that complement its flavors.
Bowl Style
- Create a vibrant bowl by layering the rice as a base and adding the salmon on top, garnished with cucumber, avocado, and jalapeno for a fresh crunch.
Salad Style
- Serve the salmon over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with the spicy creamy sauce for an added kick and toss in some cherry tomatoes for color.
Lettuce Wraps
- Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with salmon, cucumber, and avocado. Add a spoonful of sauce for an easy-to-eat finger food option.
Sushi Roll Twist
- Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and serve with sushi rice rolled in nori sheets. Add wasabi and pickled ginger for an authentic touch.
Tacos
- Flake the salmon and use it as a filling for soft corn tortillas. Top with a squeeze of lime, cilantro, and extra jalapenos for heat.
How to Perfect Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon, follow these helpful tips.
Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon will yield the best flavor and texture. Look for bright flesh without any browning.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking. This step ensures that your salmon cooks perfectly crispy on the outside.
Slice Evenly: When creating the hasselback cuts in your salmon fillets, aim for even spacing. This allows for consistent cooking and flavor infusion.
Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality spices and sauces enhance the overall taste. Don’t skimp on the kewpie mayonnaise or sriracha!
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your heat preference. Add more cayenne if you like it spicier!
Let it Rest: After cooking, let your salmon sit for a minute before serving. This helps retain moisture and improves flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors beautifully.
Garlic Rice: Flavored rice cooked with garlic adds a savory element that pairs well with salmon’s richness.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender provides a crunchy contrast to the soft salmon.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can enhance the sushi-like experience of this dish while adding comforting warmth.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar balances out the spice from the salmon nicely.
Quinoa Pilaf: Quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon makes a nutritious side that complements the dish’s flavors.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy sweet potato wedges add sweetness that contrasts brilliantly with spicy elements in the salmon.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the fish.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a fun summer vibe while offering a slight char flavor that pairs well with everything else!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make a few errors when preparing Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your salmon properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use the herbs and spices mentioned in the recipe for maximum taste.
- Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many fillets in the air fryer can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring proper air circulation.
- Ignoring cooking times: Each air fryer is different, so sticking strictly to cooking times can result in overcooked or undercooked salmon. Check your salmon a minute or two before the suggested time.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can affect the overall freshness of your dish. Always choose fresh produce, especially for toppings like cucumber and cilantro.
- Neglecting the sauce preparation: The spicy creamy sauce is essential! Don’t skip this step; it adds wonderful flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.
- Forgetting about garnishes: Garnishes like sesame seeds and fresh cilantro enhance not only the flavor but also the presentation. Don’t overlook these finishing touches!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
- Wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent drying out.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a little oil if needed, and warm until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon?
Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is a flavorful dish where salmon fillets are cut into thin slices, seasoned, and cooked in an air fryer until crispy, topped with fresh veggies and a spicy sauce.
How long does it take to make Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon?
The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, including 25 minutes for prep and just 5 minutes of cook time.
Can I use skinless salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Skinless salmon will work just as well; however, you might need to adjust cooking times slightly.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is an exciting twist on a traditional dish that your family will love. It’s quick to prepare and versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or sauces to suit your taste!
Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
Indulge in the flavors of Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon, a delightful dish that combines the crispy texture of air-fried salmon with a fresh, zesty salad inspired by sushi rolls. This recipe features salmon fillets cut into hasselback style, allowing for a perfect infusion of spices and seasonings. Served alongside a vibrant cucumber, jalapeno, and avocado salad topped with a creamy, spicy sauce, this dish is not only visually appealing but also remarkably quick to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can create a healthy meal bursting with flavor that your family will adore any night of the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
- 12 ounces salmon (skin on, two 6-ounce fillets)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
- ¼ cup kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1.5 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup
- ½ cup English cucumber (diced small)
- 2 tablespoons jalapeno (finely diced)
- 1 small avocado (diced small)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh squeezed)
- pinch kosher salt (to taste)
- few turns cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup rice (cooked)
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds (divided)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro (freshly chopped and divided)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on a cutting board and make evenly spaced cuts along the top.
- Mix avocado oil and spices in a bowl; brush over salmon ensuring seasoning gets into the cuts.
- Cook salmon in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
- While cooking, combine diced cucumber, jalapeno, avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
- Serve salmon over rice or on its own; top with salad mixture and drizzle with spicy sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with salad (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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