Crispy Air‑Fryer Salmon Paired with Fresh Arugula Berry Salad

Salmon salad

The air‑fryer gives the salmon a light crust while keeping the inside juicy. No air‑fryer? Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes until it hits 145°F inside.

Nutrition tip

Raspberries bring antioxidants, and salmon adds omega‑3 fats. Together they create a heart‑friendly, anti‑inflammatory meal.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes

Air Fryer Salmon with Arugula‑Berry Salad

Ingredients

  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp kosher salt, divided
  • ¼ tsp black pepper, divided
  • ¼ tsp brown sugar
  • ⅛ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 salmon fillets (4 oz each, skinless)
  • Cooking spray
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 4 cups baby arugula
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Directions

  1. Mix chili powder, ¼ tsp salt, ⅛ tsp pepper, brown sugar, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle the blend evenly over both salmon pieces.
  2. Set the air‑fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket, place the salmon inside, and cook 7–8 minutes, or until the center reads 145°F.
  3. While the fish cooks, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, the remaining ¼ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp pepper in another bowl.
  4. Add arugula, raspberries, and sliced strawberries to the dressing. Toss gently until everything is coated.
  5. Plate a salmon fillet with a generous serving of the salad. Enjoy while warm.

Serves: 2 (each serving = 1 fillet + ~2½ cups salad)

Nutrition per serving: 439 kcal, 28 g total fat (5 g saturated), 13 g monounsaturated, 5 g polyunsaturated, 60 mg cholesterol, 722 mg sodium, 21 g carbs (7 g fiber, 10 g sugar), 26 g protein.
Additional nutrients: 786 mg potassium, 11 % iron, 17 % vitamin A, 114 % vitamin C, 11 % calcium.