Air Fryer Salmon and Swiss Chard (Printable)

Crispy-skinned salmon with tender, garlicky Swiss chard. Healthy and flavorful in just 22 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fish

01 - 2 salmon fillets, skin-on, 5-6 oz each
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, optional
06 - 1 lemon, cut into wedges

→ Vegetables

07 - 1 large bunch Swiss chard, about 8 oz, stems trimmed and leaves roughly chopped
08 - 2 teaspoons olive oil
09 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
10 - 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
11 - Salt and pepper to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season flesh side with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
02 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
03 - Place salmon fillets skin-side up in air fryer basket. Cook for 7-9 minutes until skin is crisp and flesh flakes easily with a fork. Remove and rest for 2 minutes.
04 - While salmon cooks, heat 2 teaspoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - 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.
06 - Plate the sautéed Swiss chard, top with crispy-skinned salmon, and serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The air fryer gives you crispy skin without any flipping or fussing over a hot pan.
  • Everything comes together in under 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want something nourishing.
  • The garlicky greens soak up all the flavors and balance the richness of the salmon beautifully.
02 -
  • Dry the salmon thoroughly before oiling it, or the skin won't crisp properly and you'll end up with a soggy texture.
  • Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket, the fillets need space for hot air to circulate and create that crispy skin.
  • Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute and every bite stays moist.
03 -
  • Rub a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the salmon before seasoning for a subtle tangy depth that complements the fish.
  • If your air fryer runs hot, start checking the salmon at 6 minutes to avoid overcooking and drying it out.
  • Save any leftover salmon to flake into a salad or grain bowl the next day, it tastes just as good cold.
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