Salmon Kebabs (Air Fryer)

Today, I’m excited to share with you a delicious and healthy recipe for Air Fryer Salmon Kebabs. These flavorful kebabs are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and are a perfect option for a quick and nutritious meal. The air fryer will give them a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon tender and juicy on the inside. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 8 cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers, soaked in water if using wooden skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the salmon pieces to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread the marinated salmon, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
5. Place the skewers in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
6. Cook the salmon kebabs in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips:

• You can use any vegetables of your choice for the kebabs, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
• Experiment with different seasonings and spices to add unique flavors to your salmon kebabs. Lemon zest, cumin, or chili powder can be great additions.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also grill these kebabs on a barbecue or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.

Substitutions:

• If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with another firm fish like cod or halibut.
• For a vegetarian option, you can create vegetable skewers using tofu or halloumi cheese instead of the salmon.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can marinate the salmon up to 24 hours in advance. This will allow the flavors to infuse even more, resulting in an even tastier dish.

Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

Q: Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones? A: Yes, you can use metal skewers if you prefer. Just be cautious as they can get hot during cooking.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with these salmon kebabs? A: You can serve the kebabs with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, a zesty lemon dill sauce, or a tangy yogurt and herb dip.

Q: Can I use frozen salmon for air fryer recipes? A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking in the air fryer for even and thorough cooking.

Q: What temperature should I set my air fryer to for salmon? A: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for most salmon recipes. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets or the specific recipe instructions.

Q: How long do I cook salmon in the air fryer? A: The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets and the specific recipe. As a general guideline, cook salmon in the air fryer for about 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.

Q: Can I marinate salmon before cooking it in the air fryer? A: Absolutely! Marinating salmon before cooking can enhance its flavor. You can marinate salmon for 30 minutes to overnight, depending on the intensity of flavor you desire.

Q: Can I use different types of seasoning or sauces for the salmon? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and marinades to customize the flavor of your air-fried salmon. Lemon pepper, garlic butter, teriyaki, honey mustard, and Cajun seasonings are just a few delicious options to try.

Q: Can I cook salmon and vegetables together in the air fryer? A: Definitely! Cooking salmon and vegetables together in the air fryer is a convenient way to make a complete meal. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the recommended times for each ingredient.

Q: What sides or toppings go well with air fryer salmon? A: Air fryer salmon pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, quinoa, couscous, or a fresh salad. For toppings, try lemon slices, chopped herbs, avocado slices, or a drizzle of sauce like tzatziki or honey Sriracha.

Q: Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon? A: Yes, you can adapt many air fryer salmon recipes to other types of fish like cod, halibut, trout, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and characteristics of the fish you choose.

Q: Can I reheat leftover air fryer salmon? A: Yes, you can reheat leftover air fryer salmon. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the salmon for a few minutes until warmed through. Keep in mind that reheating may slightly affect the texture and moisture of the fish.

Q: Can I cook salmon skin-on in the air fryer? A: Yes, you can cook salmon fillets with the skin-on in the air fryer. Just make sure to season both sides of the fillet and place it skin-side down in the air fryer basket for even cooking.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of these Air Fryer Salmon Kebabs and savor a healthy meal that is easy to prepare. Get creative with your choice of vegetables and seasonings to tailor the recipe to your preferences. Bon appétit!