How To Make Air Fryer Jerk Salmon {Recipe}

Indulge in flavorful jerk salmon cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. Deliciously easy!

Related Salmon Recipe Posts:

• Grilled Salmon Steak
• Smoked Salmon Salad
• Cedar Plank Salmon with hibiscus rub

Prepare to embark on a culinary voyage that's bold, flavorful, and sizzling with the essence of the Caribbean. In the realm of air fryers, where convenience meets exceptional taste, we present the Air Fryer Jerk Salmon.

This dish is an invitation to explore the irresistible world of jerk seasoning, a smoky and spicy blend that infuses salmon fillets with an explosion of flavor. With the magic of your air fryer, you'll achieve perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior, all while maintaining its succulence within.

It's a culinary journey that's quick and brimming with the warm, spicy embrace of jerk seasoning—a delightful union of convenience and deliciousness that will leave your taste buds craving more.

This is a quick and easy air fryer jerk salmon recipe. Fresh salmon is quickly marinated in delicious jerk paste and then cooked in the air fryer for a start to finish easy weeknight gourmet main dish.Easy Jerk Salmon Recipe.

Besides it's great taste, salmon is a popular fish because it is low in saturated fat and high in both protein and omega-3 fatty acid (this is a great thing).

What is jerk seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a traditional spice blend and flavoring originating from Jamaica. It's renowned for its bold and complex taste, featuring a harmonious combination of various spices and ingredients. While the exact recipe can vary, typical ingredients in jerk seasoning include:

1. Scotch Bonnet Peppers: These fiery peppers are a key component, providing the heat that defines jerk seasoning. Be cautious when handling them, as they are extremely spicy.
2. Allspice (Pimento): Allspice berries contribute a warm and earthy flavor with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme leaves infuse a distinctive herbaceous note.
4. Garlic: Garlic cloves add a savory and aromatic element.
5. Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty and slightly sweet dimension.
6. Scallions (Green Onions): Scallions provide a mild onion flavor and freshness.
7. Soy Sauce or Tamari: These provide a salty umami element to the seasoning.
8. Vinegar: Typically, white vinegar or cider vinegar is used for acidity and balance.
9. Sugar: Brown sugar or molasses can be included for sweetness and to balance the heat.
10. Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves: These spices contribute to the rich and complex flavor profile. Other spices might include onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper.

Jerk seasoning is known for its smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet taste, making it a versatile ingredient for marinating and seasoning meats, particularly chicken and pork. It's also used in a variety of Caribbean dishes, such as jerk chicken, jerk pork, and jerk shrimp.

The seasoning is often applied to meats and left to marinate for a period, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply before cooking, grilling, or in this case, air frying. The result is a dish bursting with Caribbean flair and a delightful balance of heat and spice.

Why You'll Love This Caribbean Jerk Salmon Recipe

You'll fall head over heels for this Air Fryer Jerk Salmon recipe, and here's why:

1. Sizzle of the Caribbean: Jerk seasoning, with its tantalizing blend of spices, is like a flavor vacation to the Caribbean. It infuses the salmon with a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet essence that's utterly irresistible.
2. Effortless Air Frying: The air fryer transforms this dish into a breeze to prepare. It yields perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior, all without the need for excessive oil or elaborate cooking methods.
3. Time-Saving: With the air fryer's efficiency, you'll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something special in a hurry.
4. Versatility: Jerk salmon is a versatile centerpiece. Serve it over rice, toss it in a salad, or pair it with your favorite sides. Its bold flavors complement a wide range of dishes.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with Jerk Salmon)

"Be" is my favorite album by Common and the J Dilla produced "Love Is" is my favorite track on the album. The beat is simple and stripped-down but mellow and beautiful. The fresh salmon has a butter-smooth texture that marries well with those sampled Marvin Gaye vocals while the jerk plays the role of those Dilla drums.

Pairing Common's soulful and uplifting song "Be" with a dish as vibrant and flavorful as easy Air Fryer Jerk Salmon creates a harmonious experience that's both comforting and inspiring.

As the smooth rhythms and empowering lyrics of "Be" fill the air, imagine yourself in a cozy and inviting atmosphere, where the music sets the tone for a memorable meal. The simplicity and positivity of the song mirror the straightforward preparation of this salmon dish—a perfect balance of convenience and remarkable flavor.

Picture the salmon, seasoned with the bold and spicy jerk seasoning, sizzling in the air fryer. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of "being" in the moment, appreciating life's simple pleasures, and savoring every bite.

The result is a symphony of taste and sound—a delightful combination of uplifting melodies and the rich, smoky flavors of jerk salmon. Whether you're enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, this pairing reminds us that life's most profound moments often happen around the table, where good music and great food come together to nourish both body and soul.

What you need for Baked Honey Jerk Salmon Recipe

• Skin on Salmon Fillets - Salmon steaks also work in this dish
• Jerk Marinade - this is a wet marinade and not the dry spice seasoning mix kind. You can also use store bought jerk seasoning paste
• Fresh Lime or Lemon Juice
• Garlic Clove
• Honey
• Olive Oil

How to Make Jerk Salmon In An Air Fryer

Mix the jerk marinade with the honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and olive.

Place cold salmon filets in a baking dish or sheet.

Rub the marinade all over the salmon including the salmon skin and let sit for 15-30 minutes. Wipe away the bulk of the marinade with a paper towel.

Pre-heat air fryer to 400 degrees F.

While the air fryer heats, make a foil sling by folding a sheet of aluminum foil so that it’s long enough that the foil covers the base of the air fryer and extends up the sides of the basin.

Spray the foil with cooking oil spray and place the salmon on top skin side down.

Place foil sling plus fish into the air fryer and cook salmon for 12-15 minutes. Remove and set aside to allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

What to serve with Baked Jerk Salmon

Baked Jerk Salmon is bursting with bold flavors that pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some delectable accompaniments to consider:

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice is a classic pairing that balances the spicy jerk seasoning with a hint of sweetness. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped scallions.
2. Mango Salsa: A vibrant mango salsa adds a refreshing and slightly sweet contrast to the salmon's heat. Combine diced mango, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for a tropical twist.
3. Jamaican Rice and Peas: This traditional Jamaican dish combines rice and kidney beans cooked in coconut milk, making it a flavorful and hearty companion to jerk salmon.
4. Coleslaw: A cool and crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast. Opt for a creamy coleslaw with a hint of tanginess to complement the dish.
5. Plantains: Fried or baked sweet plantains are a delightful side, offering a touch of sweetness and a pleasant contrast in texture.
6. Avocado Salad: A simple avocado salad with tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro adds creaminess and freshness to balance salmon's spiciness.
7. Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans offer a vibrant side dish that complements the flavors of the salmon.
8. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and a lime vinaigrette creates a colorful pairing.
9. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, provide a flavorful side
10. Couscous: Fluffy couscous is a quick and versatile option. You can season it with herbs, lemon zest, or even a touch of jerk seasoning for added flair.

Considerations and Tips When Making Jerk Salmon

Take the time and make your own marinade. Do it on a Sunday meal prep day and refrigerate until ready to use. If you plan to use a store-bought marinade go with Grace or Walkerswood. Taste and doctor until the flavor meets your preference.

The approach and technique work with other types of fish but times will vary depending on thickness of the fish.

Recipe is based on a 6oz piece of salmon with skin on on average thickness. 

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer If necessary cook in batches and tint the finished salmon with foil to maintain temperature.

Don’t worry about wiping away all the jerk paste. A thin layer is great as it leaves that distinct Jamaican jerk flavor. If you feel like you need more heat you can add a few red pepper flakes.

If you prefer using a dry jerk spice mix feel free to use this jerk seasoning or make or buy your own.

You can make this in a conventional oven if you don't have an air fryer. Cook 375 degrees for 15-17 minutes.

Serve with a grain like fonio or coconut rice or even greens like this collard greens salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baking Jerk Salmon

How long should I marinate the salmon in jerk seasoning?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to penetrate the salmon. However, marinating for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator will yield even more flavorful results.

Should I use skin-on or skinless salmon for jerk salmon?

Either skin-on or skinless salmon can be used for jerk salmon, depending on your preference. Skin-on salmon can help protect the flesh during baking, but the jerk seasoning works well with both.

What temperature should I bake jerk salmon?

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking jerk salmon. This temperature helps cook the salmon evenly and develop a flavorful crust.

Jerk salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the salmon fillets.

What's the best way to store leftover salmon?

Store leftover jerk salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain its texture and flavor, reheat it in the oven or air fryer.

Can I freeze jerk salmon?

Yes, you can freeze jerk salmon for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

More Jerk Recipes

Jerk Fried Chicken

Smoked Jerk Chicken

Smoked Cauliflower with Jerk Spice

For more Salmon based recipes try these:

Broiled Jerk Salmon

Maple Glazed Salmon w/ Coffee Rub

Grilled Salmon Steak

Cold Smoked Salmon Salad

Salmon Poke Bowl

Make Air Fryer Jerk Salmon Recipe

In the realm of an easy weeknight meal this Air Fryer Jerk Salmon recipe stands as a testament to the perfect fusion of convenience and exceptional flavor. With just a few simple steps, your air fryer becomes a portal to the vibrant and bold world of Caribbean cuisine.

The jerk seasoning infuses the salmon with a tantalizing heat, while the air fryer's magic transforms it into a crispy, succulent masterpiece. In a world where time is precious, this dish offers a weeknight dinner solution that is both quick and utterly delicious.

So, as you savor the sizzle and spice of each bite, you'll discover that a culinary journey to the Caribbean can be as close as your kitchen, making weeknight dinners a flavorful adventure worth celebrating.

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