How to cook salmon cakes in air fryer

If you're looking for a healthier way to enjoy your favorite fried foods, you may be interested in trying an air fryer. These handy kitchen appliances use hot circulating air to cook food, giving it a crispy exterior without the need for oil or deep frying. In this article, we'll explore how to cook salmon cakes in an air fryer, why air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying, and the benefits of using an air fryer for cooking salmon cakes.

Why air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying

Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying because it allows you to enjoy crispy, fried foods without the added fat and calories from oil. By cooking food with hot circulating air instead of immersing it in oil, air fryers can reduce the amount of fat and calories in your food by up to 80%. Air frying also produces less smoke and odor than traditional frying, making it a more practical solution for indoor cooking.

In addition to being a healthier alternative, air frying can also be a more convenient and time-saving cooking method. Air fryers typically have pre-set cooking functions and timers, allowing you to easily cook your food without constantly monitoring it. They also require less clean-up than traditional frying, as there is no oil to dispose of and the removable parts can often be placed in the dishwasher. Overall, air frying is a great option for those looking to enjoy their favorite fried foods in a healthier and more convenient way.

The benefits of using an air fryer for cooking salmon cakes

Air fryers offer several benefits when it comes to cooking salmon cakes. For one, they provide a healthy alternative to traditional frying, making your salmon cakes more nutritious and lower in calories. Air fryers also offer a convenient and efficient way to cook food, as they typically require less time and effort than traditional frying methods. Additionally, air fryers produce crispy exteriors on food without the need for oil or deep frying, resulting in a delicious, restaurant-quality texture that's difficult to achieve with other cooking methods.

Another benefit of using an air fryer for cooking salmon cakes is that it helps to retain the natural flavors and juices of the fish. Unlike traditional frying methods, which can often dry out the fish and leave it bland, air frying allows the salmon cakes to cook evenly and retain their moisture, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy end product.

Finally, air fryers are also a great option for those who are looking to reduce their overall fat intake. By eliminating the need for oil or deep frying, air fryers can help to significantly reduce the amount of fat in your salmon cakes, making them a healthier option overall. So if you're looking for a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook salmon cakes, consider using an air fryer for your next meal.

Ingredients needed for salmon cakes in an air fryer

Before you start cooking your salmon cakes in an air fryer, you'll need to gather all the necessary ingredients. The basic ingredients for salmon cakes include:

1 pound fresh salmon
¼ cup finely diced onion
¼ cup finely chopped celery
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

However, you can also add some additional ingredients to make your salmon cakes even more flavorful. Some popular additions include:

¼ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
¼ cup finely chopped green onion
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

When preparing your salmon cakes, it's important to note that you can use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon. However, if you do use canned salmon, make sure to drain it well before using it in the recipe. Additionally, you can also use different types of breadcrumbs, such as seasoned breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers, to add a different texture and flavor to your salmon cakes.

How to prepare the salmon for the cakes

Before making the salmon cakes, you'll need to prepare the salmon. Start by preheating the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place the salmon on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to remove the skin. Next, chop the salmon into small pieces and set them aside.

Step-by-step instructions for making salmon cakes in an air fryer

With your ingredients prepared, you can now start making the salmon cakes in your air fryer.

In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, onion, celery, parsley, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Using a ¼ cup measure, divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into small patties.
Place the salmon cakes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other.
Cook the salmon cakes in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the salmon cakes from the air fryer basket and serve hot with your favorite sauces or toppings.

Tips for adding flavor to your salmon cakes

If you want to add some extra flavor to your salmon cakes, there are several ingredients you can use. Try adding diced red bell pepper, chopped fresh dill, or grated lemon zest to the mixture before shaping the patties. You can also experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as seasoned breadcrumbs or almond flour, to give your salmon cakes a unique flavor and texture.

How long to cook salmon cakes in an air fryer

The cooking time for salmon cakes in an air fryer is typically around 10-12 minutes. However, this can vary based on the size of your salmon cakes and the specific model of your air fryer. To ensure your salmon cakes are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thermometer should read 145 degrees Fahrenheit to indicate that the salmon is fully cooked.

How to check if your salmon cakes are fully cooked

One way to check if your salmon cakes are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer, as mentioned above. Another way to check for doneness is to cut into one of the salmon cakes with a knife and check the color of the interior. Fully cooked salmon should be opaque and tender, with no raw spots or pink areas. If the salmon cakes are still pink in the middle, they need to be cooked for a few more minutes until fully cooked.

Alternative cooking methods for salmon cakes

If you don't have an air fryer, there are several alternative cooking methods you can use to make salmon cakes. One popular method is to pan-fry the salmon cakes in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, cooking them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You can also bake the salmon cakes in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.

Different types of sauces and toppings to pair with your salmon cakes

Salmon cakes pair well with a variety of sauces and toppings, depending on your preferences. Some popular options include tartar sauce, lemon aioli, chipotle mayonnaise, or remoulade sauce. You can also garnish your salmon cakes with chopped fresh herbs, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for added flavor and texture.

How to store and reheat leftover salmon cakes

If you have leftover salmon cakes, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, simply place them in an air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.

Frequently asked questions about cooking salmon cakes in an air fryer

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about cooking salmon cakes in an air fryer:

Can I use canned salmon for salmon cakes in an air fryer?
Yes, you can use canned salmon for this recipe. Simply drain the liquid from the can and remove any skin or bones before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make salmon cakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the salmon cakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook them. Just be sure to cover them with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container for best results.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking?
Yes, it's recommended to preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Conclusion: Why you should try making salmon cakes in an air fryer

If you're looking for a healthier way to enjoy your favorite fried foods, an air fryer is a great investment for your kitchen. By cooking salmon cakes in an air fryer, you can enjoy a crispy, delicious texture without the added fat and calories of traditional frying methods. With the recipe and tips included in this article, you'll be able to make perfect salmon cakes in your air fryer every time, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.