Save This Air Fryer Salmon and Swiss Chard is a vibrant, Modern American dish that combines convenience with gourmet flair. Perfectly cooked salmon fillets feature an extra-crisp skin that gives way to juicy, tender fish, all served over a bed of garlicky Swiss chard. It is a light yet satisfying meal that highlights fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
Save Using the air fryer allows the salmon to cook evenly while the skin reaches a beautiful golden-brown texture. Paired with the earthiness of the Swiss chard and a hint of red pepper flakes, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and spicy, making it a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
- Fish: 2 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each, skin-on), 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional), 1 lemon (sliced into wedges).
- Vegetables: 1 large bunch Swiss chard (about 8 oz, stems trimmed and leaves roughly chopped), 2 teaspoons olive oil, 2 garlic cloves (minced), ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), Salt and pepper (to taste).
Instructions
- Step 1
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season the flesh side with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Step 2
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Step 3
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7–9 minutes (depending on thickness) until the skin is crisp and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. Remove and rest for 2 minutes.
- Step 4
- While the salmon cooks, heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 5
- Add Swiss chard and toss with garlic. Cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes until just wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Step 6
- Plate the sautéed Swiss chard, top with the crispy-skinned salmon, and serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the crispiest skin, ensure the salmon is completely dry before applying oil. Preheating the air fryer is essential to jumpstart the searing process, and letting the salmon rest after cooking helps keep it moist.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can modify the flavor profile by rubbing a small amount of Dijon mustard onto the salmon before seasoning. If you do not have Swiss chard, baby spinach or kale are excellent nutrient-rich substitutes that wilt quickly in the pan.
Serviervorschläge
Top the dish with fresh lemon wedges for a bright acidity. This meal pairs exceptionally well with a glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the richness of the salmon.
Save Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious Air Fryer Salmon and Swiss Chard. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal that demonstrates how easy it is to prepare restaurant-quality seafood at home in under half an hour.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The flesh should be opaque and the skin crispy.
- → Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but thaw them completely first and pat very dry before seasoning. Frozen salmon will release excess moisture and won't crisp properly.
- → What can I substitute for Swiss chard?
Baby spinach, kale, or collard greens work well. Adjust cooking time as spinach wilts faster while kale may need an extra minute or two.
- → Should I flip the salmon while cooking?
No, keep the salmon skin-side up throughout cooking. This allows the skin to get extra crispy while the flesh cooks through from the bottom heat.
- → How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Brush the salmon with olive oil before placing it in the basket. You can also lightly spray the basket with cooking oil if needed.
- → Can I make this for more than 2 servings?
Yes, but cook salmon in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. The chard can be easily doubled in a larger skillet.