Air Fryer Miso-Ginger Salmon with Crispy Broccolini

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking by offering a healthier and more efficient way to prepare a variety of dishes. One such dish that truly shines in an air fryer is Miso-Ginger Salmon with Crispy Broccolini. This delectable recipe combines the umami-rich flavors of miso and ginger with the succulence of salmon, all while adding a side of perfectly crispy broccolini. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this delightful and nutritious dish in your air fryer.

Air fryers have become increasingly popular for their ability to cook food with less oil while still achieving a crispy texture. Here's a recipe for Air Fryer Miso-Ginger Salmon with Crispy Broccolini:

Air fryer

For the Miso-Ginger Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin-on
2 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

For the Crispy Broccolini:

1 bunch of broccolini, washed and dried
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

In a bowl, whisk together the miso paste, freshly grated ginger, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. This savory-sweet marinade will infuse the salmon with a harmonious blend of flavors.
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish.
While the salmon is marinating, prepare the broccolini. Trim the tough ends and toss the broccolini with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure that each stalk is well-coated with the oil and seasoning.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desirable crispiness.
Place the seasoned broccolini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook the broccolini for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are tender and have developed a satisfying crispiness. Once done, transfer the broccolini to a serving dish and set aside.
Remove the marinated salmon from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for a few minutes. This step ensures more even cooking. If your air fryer has a non-stick surface, you can place the salmon fillets directly into the basket, skin-side down. If not, lightly coat the basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

Main Course

American, European, French

Serve and Garnish

Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer. Serve the Miso-Ginger Salmon alongside the Crispy Broccolini. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the salmon. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also contribute nutty and fresh notes to the dish.

Can frozen salmon be used in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon in this recipe, but there are a few important steps to follow to ensure the best results:

1. Thaw Properly: Thaw the frozen salmon fillets in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing method helps prevent the fish from becoming too watery and losing flavor.

2. Pat Dry: After the salmon has thawed, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture that could hinder the crisping process.

3. Adjust Cooking Time: Frozen salmon might take slightly longer to cook than fresh salmon. Monitor the cooking time closely and adjust as needed. It’s better to slightly undercook and check for doneness than to overcook and dry out the fish.

4. Follow the Recipe: Follow the same marinating and air frying instructions as provided in the original recipe, but be prepared for potential adjustments in cooking time. Test the salmon for flakiness and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. Crispy Broccolini: If using frozen broccolini, make sure it’s properly thawed and dried before tossing with olive oil and seasoning. Frozen vegetables can release excess moisture, so drying is important for achieving crispiness.

The Secret to Crispy Salmon

The secret to achieving crispy salmon lies in a combination of factors such as cooking technique, preparation, and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you get that perfect crispy salmon:

1. Dry the Salmon: Before cooking, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface of the fish can prevent it from getting crispy.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer: If using an air fryer, make sure it’s properly preheated. This allows the hot air to immediately start crisping the surface of the salmon when you begin cooking.

3. Use High Heat: Whether you’re using an air fryer, oven, or stovetop, using higher heat will help create a crispy exterior. This heat will rapidly evaporate any moisture and create that desirable crispiness.

4. Minimal Oil: While the air fryer requires less oil than traditional frying, a light coating of oil can aid in achieving crispiness. Brushing the salmon with a small amount of oil or using an oil spray can help.

5. Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re cooking multiple fillets, make sure there’s enough space between them. Overcrowding can trap steam and moisture, preventing proper crisping.

6. Skin-On: If your salmon has skin, cooking it skin-side down can result in a deliciously crispy skin. The high heat causes the skin to render and become crispy.

7. High and Fast: Cooking salmon quickly at a high temperature helps to lock in moisture while achieving the desired crispiness. This prevents the fish from becoming dry.

8. Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the cooking time, as it can vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. Overcooking can lead to dry salmon, while undercooking might result in a lack of crispiness.

9. Finishing Touches: If you’re using a marinade or glaze, apply it toward the end of cooking to avoid burning it. If using citrus-based marinades, be cautious, as citrus can sometimes break down proteins and alter texture.

10. Resting Time: Let the salmon rest for a minute or two after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist interior while the exterior remains crispy.

FAQs About Air Fryer Miso-Ginger Salmon with Crispy Broccolini

Q1. Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can use a different type of fish fillet such as trout, cod, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish and the recommended cooking temperature for that specific fish.

Q2. Can I marinate the salmon for longer than 2 hours?

While marinating the salmon for 1-2 hours is ideal, you can marinate it for longer, up to 24 hours. However, avoid marinating for too long as the marinade’s acidic components can start to break down the texture of the fish.

Q3. Can I use frozen broccolini?

Yes, you can use frozen broccolini, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry before tossing with olive oil and seasoning. Keep in mind that frozen broccolini might have a slightly different texture compared to fresh broccolini.

Q4. Can I use other vegetables instead of broccolini?

Absolutely! You can use other vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose and its texture when air fried.

Q5. Can I make the recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can. To make the Miso-Ginger Salmon, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily. For the crispy broccolini, you can roast it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through.

Q6. Can I use a different type of miso paste?

White miso paste has a milder flavor compared to other types of miso. If you use a darker miso paste, the flavor profile might be stronger and saltier. Adjust the quantity according to your taste.

Q7. Is the skin on the salmon necessary?

The skin can help protect the delicate flesh of the salmon during cooking and adds a nice crispy texture when air fried. However, if you prefer skinless salmon, you can remove the skin before marinating and cooking.

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Miso-Ginger Salmon with Crispy Broccolini recipe showcases the versatility and convenience of air frying while delivering a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home. With the umami-packed miso-ginger marinade and the delightful contrast of tender salmon and crispy broccolini, this recipe is a celebration of flavors, textures, and culinary innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you eager to explore more creative possibilities with your air fryer.

Air Fryer Miso-Ginger Salmon with Crispy Broccolini – Try It!