This Air Fryer Tuscan Salmon is a delightful dish packed with flavor! It’s made with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a tasty drizzle of balsamic glaze that makes every bite special.
I love how quick this meal is to prepare—just season your salmon, toss in some veggies, and let the air fryer do its magic. It’s a hit at dinner, and boy, is it pretty on the plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe, giving a rich and buttery flavor. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, tilapia or cod can work, though they might not be as rich.
Cherry Tomatoes: The sweetness of cherry tomatoes really enhances the dish. If they’re out of season, you can use halved grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes—drained well—as a substitute.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds a nice color and nutrients. You can swap it for baby kale or arugula for a different taste, or use frozen spinach (thawed and drained) if fresh isn’t available.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, try using half-and-half or coconut milk to maintain creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, oat cream or cashew cream makes for a good alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a beautiful nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free substitute if necessary.
How Do I Get My Salmon to Be Perfectly Cooked in the Air Fryer?
Cooking salmon in the air fryer is a breeze. The goal is to achieve that flaky texture without overcooking it. Here’s how:
- Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. This step makes a difference!
- Season the salmon well. Don’t skip the salt and pepper to bring out its natural flavors.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes, but start checking for doneness around 8 minutes. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Let it rest for a minute before serving, allowing the juices to settle for extra flavor.
Keep an eye on your air fryer, as cooking times can vary based on the model. Happy cooking!
How to Make Air Fryer Tuscan Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon and Vegetables:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 5-6 ounces each)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes approximately 5 minutes to prepare and about 12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll need about 17 minutes before you can dig into this flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This helps the salmon cook evenly and get that nice, flaky texture.
2. Season the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillets and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will give the salmon a boost of flavor!
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Pour the creamy mixture over the salmon to coat it nicely.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach around the salmon in the basket. This will add even more flavor and color to your dish!
6. Air Fry the Salmon:
Cook everything in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
7. Serve the Dish:
Carefully remove the salmon and vegetables from the air fryer. Drizzle any delicious sauce that formed in the basket over the salmon for extra flavor.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish your dish with fresh basil for a lovely touch. Serve immediately with your favorite side dish and enjoy this tasty Air Fryer Tuscan Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is by leaving it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, seal the salmon in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. If you prefer a lower-calorie version, use Greek yogurt or sour cream, but add it towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon and vegetables in the microwave on medium heat or gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. Avoid reheating too long to keep the salmon moist.
What Should I Serve with Air Fryer Tuscan Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, serve with steamed vegetables or zucchini noodles. The creamy sauce also goes great with crusty bread for dipping!
