Pin It This Air Fryer Salmon and Swiss Chard recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in just 22 minutes. By using the air fryer, you achieve an incredible extra-crisp skin while keeping the salmon juicy and tender inside. Paired with earthy, garlicky Swiss chard, this dish is a vibrant and healthy option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Pin It The contrast between the smoky paprika on the salmon and the slight heat from the red pepper flakes in the Swiss chard creates a balanced flavor profile. This dish proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming, focusing on fresh ingredients and modern cooking techniques.
Ingredients
- Fish: 2 salmon fillets (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 (wedges).
- Vegetables: 1 large bunch Swiss chard (8 oz), 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: Air Fry
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the basket and cook for 7–9 minutes until the skin is crisp. Remove and rest for 2 minutes.
- Step 3: Prepare the Swiss Chard
- Heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add the chopped Swiss chard and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Step 4: Serve
- Plate the sautéed Swiss chard, top with the crispy salmon, and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the skin gets maximum crispiness, it is essential to pat the salmon completely dry before adding oil. Preheating the air fryer for the full 3 minutes ensures the cooking process starts immediately at the correct temperature.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you don't have Swiss chard on hand, baby spinach or chopped kale make excellent substitutes. For a deeper flavor, try rubbing a small amount of Dijon mustard onto the salmon before adding your seasonings.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is complete on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the salmon beautifully.
Pin It Whether you're looking for a low-carb dinner or a sophisticated meal to impress a guest, this Air Fryer Salmon and Swiss Chard is a reliable and delicious choice. Its combination of textures and bright citrus notes makes it a standout dish in any recipe rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What temperature should I set my air fryer for salmon?
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for best results. This temperature ensures crispy skin while keeping the flesh moist and tender.
- → How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is ready when the skin is crispy and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. For 5-6 oz fillets, this typically takes 7-9 minutes depending on thickness.
- → Can I substitute other greens for Swiss chard?
Yes, baby spinach or kale work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time slightly as spinach wilts faster while kale may need an extra minute.
- → Should I use skin-on or skinless salmon?
Skin-on salmon is recommended for this method. The air fryer creates an extra-crispy skin that adds texture and helps protect the delicate flesh during cooking.
- → What wine pairs best with this dish?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the salmon and the garlicky greens beautifully.
- → Can I add extra seasonings to the salmon?
Absolutely. Try rubbing the salmon with a touch of Dijon mustard before seasoning, or experiment with herbs like dill, thyme, or a citrus zest rub.