This Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is a delightful twist on traditional sushi rolls. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. The blackened salmon cooks to crispy perfection, topped with a refreshing cucumber, jalapeno, and avocado salad. Finished with sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and an irresistible spicy creamy sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy sauce elevates the salmon’s natural taste, making every bite unforgettable.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this dish features omega-3 rich salmon and fresh veggies for a wholesome meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main course or served over rice for a satisfying bowl meal, accommodating various dietary needs.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish thanks to its bold flavors and engaging presentation.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Baking tray
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: Delivers perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior while keeping it moist inside.
- Sharp knife: Essential for making precise cuts in the salmon for that classic hasselback style.
- Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients for the flavorful sauces and salads easily.
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
- ¼ cup kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1.5 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup
For the Salad Topping
- 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)
For Serving
- 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 patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Place each fillet on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, make several evenly spaced cuts about halfway through each fillet without cutting all the way through.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a mixing bowl, combine all dry seasonings with avocado oil.
- Rub the seasoning mixture generously onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
- Ensure that some seasoning gets into the cuts for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Preheat your air fryer according to its instructions.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down.
- Cook at 400°F for about 5 minutes or until cooked through and crispy on top.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the salmon is cooking, prepare your spicy sauce.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Adjust sweetness or spiciness according to your preference.
Step 5: Prepare Salad Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together diced cucumber, jalapeno, avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Gently toss until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer.
- Serve over cooked rice.
- Top with salad mixture, drizzle spicy sauce over everything.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro before enjoying!
How to Serve Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
Serving Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is all about enhancing its flavors and presentation. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
On a Bed of Rice
- This salmon pairs beautifully with cooked rice. Use white, brown, or jasmine rice for a comforting base that absorbs the flavors of the dish.
With a Fresh Salad
- A crisp salad can balance the richness of the salmon. Consider mixing greens with cucumbers and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
Wrapped in Lettuce
- For a low-carb option, serve the salmon in large lettuce leaves. Add slices of avocado and jalapenos for an exciting crunch.
Topped with Extra Sauce
- Drizzle more spicy creamy sauce on top before serving. This adds extra flavor and makes it even more enticing.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top just before serving. It adds a pop of color and enhances the overall taste.
How to Perfect Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
To achieve the best version of Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon, consider these simple tips that will elevate your cooking game.
- Choose Quality Salmon: Selecting fresh, high-quality salmon fillets ensures better flavor and texture.
- Cut Evenly: Make sure your cuts in the salmon are evenly spaced to ensure uniform cooking and crispy edges.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve that perfect crispy skin without overcooking the fish.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Adding herbs like dill can introduce new flavors.
- Use Kewpie Mayonnaise: If you can find it, Kewpie mayo adds a rich umami flavor that’s hard to beat in this dish.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances its juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful main course.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant green color and nutritional balance to your plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the rich flavors of the salmon.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and feta brings freshness and protein to your meal.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven, adding depth to your dinner.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that contrasts nicely with the spicy notes of the salmon.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini offers a fun twist that’s also low in carbs.
- Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: These naturally sweet wedges are easy to prepare and pair perfectly with savory dishes.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: A light salad made with cucumbers and tomatoes drizzled with olive oil provides freshness that complements the dish well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using frozen salmon: Frozen salmon may not cook evenly and can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always use fresh salmon or properly thawed salmon for the best results.
- Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your air fryer for optimal crispiness and flavor.
- Overcrowding the basket: This can prevent the salmon from getting crispy. Ensure there is space around each fillet for even cooking.
- Ignoring the seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon well can result in bland flavors. Use all spices as directed to enhance your dish.
- Skipping the sauce: The creamy sauce adds a delightful kick. Don’t skip it—prepare it while the salmon is cooking for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, usually about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon that might help you!
Can I use skinless salmon?
Yes, skinless salmon works fine; just adjust cooking times as needed since skin helps retain moisture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on how much cayenne and sriracha you use. Adjust these ingredients according to your taste preferences.
How do I prepare the salad topping?
Simply dice cucumber, jalapeno, and avocado, then mix with lime juice and seasonings for a refreshing topping.
What side dishes go well with Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I substitute other fish?
Absolutely! You can use trout or any firm white fish as an alternative to salmon in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize the toppings or adjust the spice levels according to your family’s preferences. Enjoy this dish and make it your own!
Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon
Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is a culinary delight that brings the flavors of sushi to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. This dish features juicy salmon fillets, sliced hasselback-style for maximum flavor absorption, and topped with a zesty cucumber, jalapeno, and avocado salad. The combination of crispy blackened salmon and a creamy spicy sauce creates an unforgettable meal that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will impress everyone with its vibrant presentation and mouthwatering taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air 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 the air fryer to 400°F. Pat the salmon fillets dry and make several evenly spaced cuts halfway through each fillet.
- In a bowl, mix the seasoning blend with avocado oil and rub it generously onto both sides of the salmon.
- Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down and cook for about 5 minutes until crispy.
- While the salmon cooks, prepare the salad by combining diced cucumber, jalapeno, avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- For the sauce, whisk together kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Serve the cooked salmon over rice topped with salad mixture and drizzled with spicy sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 392
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 83mg
