Save This Air Fryer Salmon and Swiss Chard is a masterpiece of simplicity and texture. By utilizing the concentrated heat of an air fryer, the salmon achieves a restaurant-quality crispy skin while remaining incredibly juicy on the inside. Paired with a bed of tender, garlicky greens, this meal is a vibrant, low-carb dinner option that feels indulgent yet remains perfectly healthy.
Save The beauty of this dish lies in the contrast between the savory, seasoned salmon and the slightly bitter, earthy notes of the Swiss chard. Infused with fresh garlic and a hint of red pepper flakes, the vegetables provide a sophisticated base that elevates the fish from a simple protein to a complete, gourmet main course.
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: Season the Salmon
- 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
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Step 3: Air Fry the Fillets
- 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: Sauté the Garlic
- 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: Wilt the Swiss Chard
- 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 and Serve
- Plate the sautéed Swiss chard, top with the crispy-skinned salmon, and serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of depth, you can rub the salmon with a small amount of Dijon mustard before applying the dry seasonings. Also, ensure the air fryer is fully preheated to ensure the skin begins crisping the moment the fish hits the basket.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If Swiss chard is not available at your local market, this recipe works beautifully with baby spinach or kale. For those who prefer a bit more heat, double the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the vegetable sauté.
Serviervorschläge
To complement the richness of the salmon, serve this dish with a glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A few extra lemon wedges on the side allow guests to adjust the brightness to their liking.
Save Whether you are looking for a quick post-workout meal or a light weekend dinner, this Air Fryer Salmon and Swiss Chard delivers high-quality flavor with minimal effort. It is a testament to how simple techniques can transform basic ingredients into a stunning, health-conscious dish.
Common 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 should be crispy.
- → Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but thaw them completely first and pat very dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent the skin from crisping properly in the air fryer.
- → What can I substitute for Swiss chard?
Baby spinach, kale, or collard greens work well as alternatives. Adjust cooking time as spinach wilts faster while kale may need an extra minute.
- → Why should I place the salmon skin-side up?
Cooking skin-side up in the air fryer exposes the skin directly to the circulating hot air, creating maximum crispiness while keeping the flesh moist and tender.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store cooked salmon and Swiss chard separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.
- → Can I add other seasonings to the salmon?
Absolutely. Try adding garlic powder, lemon zest, dill, or a touch of Dijon mustard before seasoning for additional flavor dimensions.