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Crispy Sesame-Glazed Salmon in Air Fryer

This dish features tender, flaky salmon fillets with a crispy sesame seed crust, cooked to perfection in the air fryer. The salmon is marinated in a savory soy-based sauce, then coated with toasted sesame seeds that crackle as they toast, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The final result is a visually appealing, flavorful dish with a crispy exterior and moist interior.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets preferably skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional, for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon light oil spray vegetable or canola oil
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds preferably plain or toasted
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger fresh grated or ground
  • 2 green onions green onions chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small bowl
  • Brush or spray bottle

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic to create a quick marinade.
  2. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over, making sure they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and pat dry lightly if needed.
  5. Spray the salmon fillets lightly with oil on both sides to promote crispiness, especially on the skin.
  6. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch for even cooking.
  7. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping gently halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the flesh is opaque and flaky.
  8. While the salmon cooks, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes, shaking often.
  9. Remove the cooked salmon from the air fryer and sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  10. Serve immediately, enjoying the crispy sesame crust, tender flesh, and aromatic toppings.