This air fryer salmon salad is a perfect healthy lunch that’s packed with flavour. Salmon cooks beautifully in the air fryer, locking in moisture. While maintaining a pink, tender texture in the centre. This dish offers a fresh twist on a classic salad, adding a Mediterranean flair with the inclusion of feta cheese. Which brings a creamy, salty contrast to the flaky fish. The zesty lemon, when squeezed over, cuts through the richness of the salmon and cheese, balancing the flavours perfectly.
One of the great things about this recipe is how simple and customizable it is. Depending on the size of your salmon fillet, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked just right. The air fryer’s even heat distribution makes it incredibly easy to cook the salmon to your preferred level of doneness. Keep in mind that air fryers can vary in performance, so it’s always a good idea to check the fish a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to ensure it’s cooked through but still moist and flaky.
This Mediterranean-inspired salad is not only healthy but also filling, making it the perfect choice for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner. The base can include a variety of seasonal vegetables such as leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, adding both colour and crunch. You can also include olives or capers for an added burst of flavour. With minimal effort, this air fryer salmon salad is a delightful and nutritious meal that’s ideal for anyone looking to eat clean while enjoying bold, fresh flavours. It’s an easy meal for two, but you can always scale it up to serve more.
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 10 to 12 minutes
SERVES 2 people
KIT you will need an air fryer and racks.
Ingredients for air fryer salmon salad
200g of fresh Salmon fillets
2 little gem lettuce
1 large tomato, thinly sliced
1/4 of a cucumber, diced
1 red onion, peeled and diced
1/2 a cup of feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon of fresh dill, finely chopped
1/2 an avocado, peeled and sliced
8 to 10 asparagus spears
2 teaspoons of dried oregano
1 lemon
Seasoning
Olive oil spray
Method
To begin, lightly spray your salmon fillets with olive oil spray to help them crisp slightly and stay moist while cooking. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sprinkle over a good pinch of dried oregano for a subtle herby flavour. Place the seasoned salmon fillets directly into your air fryer drawer in a single layer. Set the air fryer temperature to 200°C and cook the salmon for around 10 to 12 minutes. To check for doneness, use a fork to gently flake the fish at its thickest point. If it flakes easily, it’s ready. If not, cook for an additional minute or so until fully cooked through.
While the salmon is cooking, prepare your salad base. Separate the leaves of your little gem lettuce, wash them thoroughly, and arrange them directly onto a serving board or large platter. Dice your red onion and cucumber into small, even pieces, and scatter them over the lettuce leaves for a crunchy, fresh texture. Thinly slice your tomatoes and place them around the platter for a pop of color and flavor.
With around 4 minutes left on your salmon cook time, insert the air fryer rack or tray above the salmon and carefully add your asparagus. Let the asparagus cook for the final 4 to 5 minutes, or until they are slightly browned and tender.
Once everything is cooked, remove the salmon and let it rest for a minute or two. Then arrange the asparagus over the salad platter, followed by a scattering of fresh dill and some crumbled feta cheese. Finally, place the salmon fillets on top, garnish with sliced avocado, an extra sprinkle of dill, and finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Air Fryer Salmon Salad
1. Choose the right salmon
Use skinless fillets for easier flaking and a lighter texture in salads. Fresh or frozen fillets both work but just make sure frozen ones are fully thawed before cooking.
2. Pat the salmon dry
Removing excess moisture before seasoning helps the salmon get a nice crisp edge and prevents steaming in the air fryer.
3. Season simply but boldly
A drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika go a long way. You can also use a pre-mixed salmon seasoning or a honey mustard glaze for added flavour.
4. Use foil or parchment
Place the salmon on a small piece of foil or parchment paper in the air fryer basket to make clean-up easier and keep the fish from sticking.
5. Don’t overcook it
Cook salmon at 200°C (390°F) for around 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness. The fish should flake easily with a fork and still be juicy in the centre.
6. Let it rest
Give your salmon 2–3 minutes to rest before flaking into your salad. As this helps lock in moisture and makes handling easier.
7. Build a balanced bowl
Combine flaked salmon with crunchy greens, grains (like quinoa or rice), roasted or raw veggies, and a zesty dressing for a full, satisfying meal.
8. Add texture
Top your salad with nuts, seeds, or crispy chickpeas for added crunch and extra nutrition.
Similar recipes
So if you love this air fryer salmon salad, you might also like to try my air fryer Caesar salad, the crispy air fryer chickpea salad or my air fryer avocado salad.
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