Easy Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Recipe 

Easy air fryer teriyaki salmon recipe is one the whole family can enjoy. With a simple slightly sweet, slightly tart marinade, this easy air fryer recipe comes together in literally a matter of minutes. It’s the perfect main dish to pair with your favorite sides. If you need more marinade ideas, check out my 5 best marinades for chicken that can be easily paired with most proteins. If you want to make this air fryer salmon teriyaki into a complete meal, check out this salmon stir fry recipe. 

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TERIYAKI FLAVOR PROFILE

Teriyaki sauce is a savory and slightly sweet Japanese sauce that is commonly used in cooking and as a glaze for proteins and vegetables. It is known for its rich, glossy appearance and distinctive flavor profile. 

Flavor: Teriyaki sauce is characterized by its delicious blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. It typically has a balance of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (a sweet rice wine), which gives it a unique taste. The sauce often incorporates other ingredients such as ginger, garlic, and sesame oil, adding depth and complexity to its flavor.

Aroma: Teriyaki sauce has an enticing aroma that combines the fragrant notes of soy sauce, caramelized sugar, and the subtle hints of ginger and garlic. The aroma is often described as savory, slightly sweet, and appetizing.

Versatility: Teriyaki sauce is highly versatile and can be used in various ways. It can be used as a marinade, a glaze for grilling or broiling, a stir-fry sauce, or a dipping sauce. Its sweet and savory flavor pairs well with a wide range of proteins like chicken, beef, fish, and tofu, as well as vegetables.

WHY EASY AIR FRYER TERIYAKI SALMON RECIPE

I love using salmon as it’s such a good base for a healthy meal. Fresh salmon is a natural source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which promote cardiovascular well-being. Additionally, it provides essential nutrients like vitamin B and potassium, contributing to overall health and vitality.

The versatility of salmon shines when paired with a delectable teriyaki glaze. The succulent fish readily absorbs the rich flavors of the seasoning, resulting in a lusciously buttery texture. The teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the salmon’s inherent qualities, elevating its taste profile to new heights.

Salmon is also a healthy meal that cooks quickly. When you’re in a time crunch it makes for a perfect weeknight or any night meal. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply craving a wholesome meal, salmon effortlessly delivers a healthy and satisfying meal. 

HOW TO BRINE SALMON

For the best results of this teriyaki salmon air fryer recipe, I highly suggest brining the salmon. I prefer to use the thickest part of the salmon, which is usually the center cut part, for this delicious dinner. Once I have them sliced, I place about 2 cups of water in a bowl along with 1.5 tbsp of salt. I place the salmon fillets in the salty solution and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. This brining process helps to break down the muscle fibers in the salmon creating a juicier finished product. 

Other reasons to brine salmon:

1. Helps season the flesh which improves the flavor 

2. Helps prevent the protein from drying out 

3. Helps prevent the albumin from leaking out the salmon 

Once you have finished brining the salmon, remove from the solution and set down on paper towels to dry out. 

HOW TO MAKE TERIYAKI MARINADE

First, you can take a shortcut and use store-bought teriyaki sauce. However, when possible, I like to make my own marinades as it allows me to control the flavor to suit my palette. 

This quick homemade teriyaki sauce has such simple ingredients that you will most likely have many of the items already at home. It is so simple, it comes together in no time. 

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup Soy sauce (can substitute coconut aminos)
• 1/4 cup Orange juice
• 1 tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar
• 1 tsp Sesame oil
• 2 tsp Crushed red pepper
• 1 tbsp Shallot
• 1 tbsp Fresh grated ginger

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl and set aside once done. 

HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER TERIYAKI SALMON RECIPE

First prep the salmon by brining it for at least 10 minutes and set aside. 

While the salmon is brining, in a small bowl place all the ingredients for the teriyaki marinade and whisk together. Set aside once done.

Place the salmon skin side down on foil paper. Season the salmon filets with salt and black pepper to taste. Next, with a basting brush (or spoon), brush the marinade on top of the salmon ensuring an even coating on all sides. Allow to marinate for 10 minutes up to overnight. 

Place the foil with the marinated salmon in the air fryer basket or tray and cook on 375 degrees for approximately 7 – 10 minutes. Please note that cook time will vary based on thickness of the salmon and how you like your salmon cooked. I prefer my salmon with a slightly pink center (medium cooked) which means it will cook in less time than salmon that is well done. It’s all based on personal preference. 

Once the salmon is cooked, remove from the air fryer and set aside to allow to cool. Optional, you can top with sesame seeds or green onions. 

SIDE DISHES TO SERVE WITH TERIYAKI SALMON

There are a variety of side dishes you can serve with this easy air fryer dinner ideas that will complement its flavor and provide a well rounded meal. Here are some tasty suggestions:

Rice – a bowl of steamed rice provides a neutral base so that you can fully enjoy the flavors of the teriyaki sauce. Some healthy rice options are:

• Brown rice
• Jasmine rice
• Coconut rice

For a low carb meal, you can serve this delectable dish with a side of vegetable. The vibrant vegetables add freshness and texture to the meal. 

• Stir fry vegetables
• Asparagus
• Spaghetti squash
• Cauliflower or cauliflower rice

HOW TO STORE LEFTOVERS

The cooked salmon stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Once the salmon is cooked, allow to come to room temperature and place in container. Store in the fridge for three to four days. 

If you like easy air fryer recipes, you may also enjoy these jerk shrimp tacos, air fryer boneless chicken thighs, air fryer pizza bites.

If you make this recipe, feel free to drop a comment down below. Also, let’s stay in touch! Feel free to follow me on my social media as I share more healthy recipes, fitness workouts and motherhood. Give a follow at: Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest!