You know those nights when you want something healthy but don’t feel like cooking? That’s exactly why I fell in love with this Air Fryer Salmon Salad with Arugula! It’s my go-to when I need a protein-packed meal in under 20 minutes – crispy salmon, peppery greens, and bright lemon flavor all come together with zero fuss. Trust me, once you try this combo of tender salmon and fresh arugula straight from the air fryer, you’ll be making it weekly like I do!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon Salad with Arugula
This recipe works because every ingredient plays its part – fresh flavors, simple prep, and that perfect crispy-on-the-outside salmon. Here’s exactly what you’ll need (and why each one matters!):
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on) – Go for fresh, not frozen, if you can. The skin gets gloriously crispy in the air fryer!
- 4 cups fresh arugula – That peppery bite balances the rich salmon so well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Just enough to coat the salmon without making it greasy.
- 1 tsp lemon juice – Brightens everything up. Squeeze it fresh!
- 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp black pepper – Simple seasonings that let the salmon shine.
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Little bursts of sweetness.
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced – Soak in cold water for 5 minutes if you want less bite.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped – That herby freshness ties it all together.
See? Nothing fancy, just good stuff that makes magic together. Now let’s cook!
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Salad with Arugula
This recipe comes together so fast, you’ll barely have time to set the table! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy salmon salad in no time. The secret? Letting the air fryer work its magic on that salmon while you prep the fresh ingredients.
Preparing the Salmon
First things first – preheat that air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This gives it time to get nice and hot while you prep the salmon. Now, pat those beautiful fillets dry with paper towels – this helps them crisp up better. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Rub it all in gently with your fingers – don’t be shy!
When the air fryer’s ready, place the salmon in the basket skin-side down. Give them some space – don’t crowd them! Cook for 8-10 minutes (thicker fillets might need the full 10). You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork but still looks slightly pink in the center. Let it rest for 2 minutes before flaking – this keeps all those delicious juices inside!
Assembling the Salad
While the salmon cooks, toss the arugula, tomatoes, onion, and dill in a big bowl. No dressing needed yet – the olive oil and lemon juice from the salmon will coat everything perfectly. Once your salmon is flaked into beautiful chunks, gently fold it into the greens. The heat from the salmon will slightly wilt the arugula – oh my goodness, the textures!
Pro tip: If you want a little extra zing, squeeze another teaspoon of lemon juice over top right before serving. And if you’re feeling fancy? A quick drizzle of balsamic glaze takes this from simple to spectacular.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Salad
This salad checks all the boxes for me – here’s why it’ll become your new favorite too:
- Dinner in 20 minutes flat – Faster than takeout, healthier than drive-thru!
- Protein powerhouse – That salmon packs 30g of protein per serving to keep you full.
- Bright, fresh flavors – The peppery arugula and zesty lemon wake up your taste buds.
- One-bowl wonder – Minimal cleanup means more time to relax after eating.
Seriously, what’s not to love? It’s my secret weapon for looking fancy while putting in zero effort.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Salad
After making this recipe dozens of times (okay, maybe hundreds), here are my hard-earned tricks for salmon salad success:
- Give your salmon space! Overcrowding the air fryer basket leads to steaming instead of crisping. Cook fillets in batches if needed.
- Fresh herbs make all the difference – that dill should be bright green and fragrant. Substitutes never taste quite right.
- The fork test never lies – salmon should flake easily but still glisten slightly in the center. Overcooked salmon turns disappointingly dry.
- Pat dry first – removing excess moisture helps the skin get perfectly crispy.
Follow these simple tips, and you’ll get perfect results every single time. Promise!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can mix it up based on what’s in your fridge! Here are my go-to swaps and upgrades:
- Greens: Swap arugula for baby spinach or massaged kale if you prefer milder greens.
- Citrus: Lime juice works beautifully instead of lemon for a tropical twist.
- Creamy addition: Toss in diced avocado or crumbled feta right before serving.
- Low-carb option: Skip the tomatoes and add sliced cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Extra protein: Throw in some chickpeas or quinoa to bulk it up. If you are looking for more air fryer protein ideas, check out this air fryer beef meatballs recipe.
The beauty is – as long as you keep that perfectly air-fried salmon as the star, everything else can play backup however you like!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Salmon Salad
This salad shines all on its own, but here’s how I love to serve it when I’m feeling fancy (or extra hungry!):
- Crusty bread on the side – Perfect for soaking up those delicious salmon juices.
- Lemon-drizzled quinoa – Turns it into a heartier meal without overpowering the flavors.
- Extra citrus vinaigrette – Just whisk olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey for brightness.
My husband always asks for garlic bread with his – proof that simple pairings make everyone happy!
Storing and Reheating
Here’s my no-fail method for keeping leftovers fresh (because let’s be real – we’ve all been there when the eyes are bigger than the stomach!):
- Store separately: Keep leftover salmon and arugula in different containers – soggy salad is nobody’s friend.
- Gentle reheating: Warm salmon in the air fryer at 300°F for just 2-3 minutes to avoid drying it out.
- Eat within 2 days: The arugula gets wilty and the salmon loses its magic after that.
Pro tip: The salmon makes amazing cold leftovers too – just flake it straight from the fridge onto fresh greens!
Air Fryer Salmon Salad Nutrition Facts
Let’s talk numbers – this salad packs serious nutrition without skimping on flavor! (Remember, these are estimates – your exact counts depend on ingredient sizes and brands.) Per generous serving, you’re looking at:
- 320 calories – Light but satisfying
- 30g protein – Thanks to that beautiful salmon!
- 18g healthy fats – Mostly from olive oil and salmon
- Only 6g carbs – Perfect if you’re watching intake
My favorite part? You get all this goodness while feeling like you’re treating yourself. Now that’s what I call a win-win!
FAQs About Air Fryer Salmon Salad with Arugula
You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are the things people ask me most about this recipe:
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight first. Pat it super dry with paper towels – trust me, that extra step makes all the difference for getting that perfect crispy edge.
How can I make it spicier?
Oh, I love this one! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salmon before air frying, or toss some sliced jalapeños into the salad. My personal trick? A drizzle of sriracha-honey mix over the top!
What dressings work best?
Honestly, I usually just do olive oil and lemon juice to let the salmon shine. But when I want to switch it up, tahini-lemon or a simple balsamic vinaigrette are my go-tos. Just go light – the salmon’s natural oils add so much flavor already! Salmon is a fantastic source of essential fatty acids.
Can I meal prep this salad?
Yes, but with a caveat! Prep the salmon and chop the veggies ahead, but wait to assemble until you’re ready to eat. Nobody likes soggy arugula – learned that lesson the hard way!
If you enjoy quick, healthy meals like this, you might also enjoy this air fryer street corn chicken rice bowl.
For those interested in the science behind air frying, you can read more about how the FDA recommends using air fryers for safe cooking.
Print
20-Minute Air Fryer Salmon Salad with Arugula – So Delicious!
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A healthy and flavorful salmon salad made with air-fried salmon and fresh arugula.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 cups arugula
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Rub salmon fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Place salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes.
- While salmon cooks, toss arugula, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and dill in a bowl.
- Flake the cooked salmon and add it to the salad.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for best results.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add avocado for extra creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean