Air Fryer Blackened Salmon Recipe (Whole30 Paleo Keto)

Air Fryer Blackened Salmon Recipe (Whole30 Paleo Keto) – a 15-minute meal of spicy, tender salmon filets, cooked to perfection in the Air Fryer.

Still need proof that healthy nutritious meals don’t have to include tons of ingredients or complicated steps? This Air Fryer Blackened Salmon is ready in under 15 minutes and requires just a couple of simple ingredients. If you’re looking for a tasty dinner on the table fast, turn to this recipe and you won’t be disappointed! I especially love to serve this salmon topped with cool and refreshing Cucumber Salsa.

What is Blackened Salmon?

“Blackened” can refer to the spices used to season food and/or the method of cooking (i.e. charred in a skillet or on a grill.) In this recipe, I’m using a blackened seasoning, which is a combo of Cajun spices. With just the right amount of heat and depth of spicy flavor, a good, blackened rub can elevate any piece of meat or meal. It’s savory, spicy, and salty all in one and perfect for seasoning seafood, but is also great on chicken, pork, wings, and beef.

What You’ll Need

Salmon Filets

Spices for Blackened Seasoning – paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, black pepper, cayenne, oregano, and thyme

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil Spray

How to Make Blackened Salmon in the Air Fryer

Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towel.

Coat the flesh side of the salmon filets liberally with seasoning mixture. Tip: pour seasoning onto a plate and spread it out, then press flesh side of salmon filets into the seasoning, coating completely.

Line the basket of your Air Fryer with parchment paper liners (not mandatory but helps with clean-up!)

Place the salmon filets, skin side down, into the basket and spritz lightly with avocado oil spray.

Cook at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Check for doneness and keep in mind that thicker filets may need extra cooking time.

Homemade Seasoning for Blackened Salmon

Did you know you can easily make your own homemade blackened seasoning? It requires just a few basic spices that are most likely already in your pantry. Of course, feel free to purchase a pre-made blend from the store, but if you want a little more bang for your buck, try this Homemade Blackened Seasoning Mix to keep on hand for all your favorite recipes. It’s also a great way to customize the level of spiciness. If you’re not a big fan of heat, just take the cayenne down a notch for a milder version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different seasoning on the salmon?

Of course! Feel free to use this method of cooking salmon in the Air Fryer and choose from any of my Homemade Seasoning Blends or create your flavor profile! I also love this Lemon Pepper Salt Blend on salmon and chicken.

What if I don’t have an Air Fryer?

No problem. You can cook the blackened salmon on the stovetop too. Simply preheat a large skillet (cast iron works best) over medium high heat with a little bit of olive oil. Place the seasoned (flesh side) down in the heated skillet and cook for 3 minutes, without disturbing the fish. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.

How many pieces of salmon can I cook at once in the Air Fryer?

It will depend on the size of your Air Fryer and the size of the filets. The secret is to allow for proper air circulation by not crowding the filets – whatever amount fits without the filets touching is best. My 5.8 quart Air Fryer fits 3-4 4 ounce filets perfectly.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The fish should be tender (but not mushy) and easily flake with a fork. You can also check the internal temp – I shoot for about 140-145 degrees.

What are the macros of this recipe?

The macro breakdown for Air Fried Blackened Salmon is 23 grams protein, 8 grams fat, and 3 grams carbs per 4 ounce filet.

More Recipes Like This

Air Fryer Blackened Fish Tacos

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Gluten Free)

Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

Garlic Herb Salmon Foil Packs with Potatoes

 

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