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If you’re looking for a vibrant and easy seafood dish that bursts with fresh flavors, this Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe is going to become your new go-to. The combination of zesty lime, fragrant cilantro, and the subtle warmth from Goya Sazón makes every bite delightfully bright and satisfying. Plus, using an air fryer ensures the salmon gets perfectly cooked with a tender, flaky interior and a slightly crisped exterior—all in under 30 minutes. It’s a fresh, healthy, and incredibly simple way to enjoy restaurant-quality salmon right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe keeps it simple with essential ingredients that each play a starring role. From the rich, buttery texture of skin-on salmon to the fresh zing of lime and the aromatic punch of cilantro, every element blends together to deliver a mouthwatering dish.
- 2 skin-on salmon fillets (4 ounces each): Skin helps the salmon stay moist and adds a lovely crispy texture when air fried.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point perfect for seasoning and crisping the salmon.
- 10 grams Goya Foods Sazón con Culantro y Achiote: This seasoning infuses vibrant color and a unique, earthy spice to the salmon.
- ½ cup cilantro (chopped): Fresh cilantro brings brightness and herbaceous notes that complement the lime beautifully.
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes): Provides essential citrus acidity for balance and zing.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (about 1 lime): Adds concentrated lime flavor and aroma to amplify the freshness.
- Lime wedges (for garnish): Perfect for those who want an extra squeeze of lime on top before digging in.
How to Make Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Salmon and Air Fryer
Start by taking your salmon out of the fridge to come to room temperature—this helps it cook evenly without drying out. Pat each fillet dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for an optimal cooking environment.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, whisk together the avocado oil and Goya Sazón con Culantro y Achiote until fully blended. This mixture will add both flavor and a beautiful golden hue to your salmon.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon Fillets
Generously rub the seasoned oil all over each salmon fillet, making sure every inch is covered. This step ensures the spices penetrate well and you’ll get a flavorful crust when air fried.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Place one fillet skin-side down in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Repeat with the second fillet. The air fryer’s hot circulating air locks in moisture while creating a slightly crisp exterior—pure perfection!
Step 5: Prepare the Cilantro Lime Sauce
While your salmon cooks, combine the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and lime zest in a small bowl. This bright sauce will add a fresh, tangy finish that complements the warmth of the seasoning.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the salmon is cooked, spoon or brush the cilantro lime mixture evenly over the fillets. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an optional extra burst of citrus.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, a few extra garnishes work wonders. Think fresh cilantro sprigs for a pop of green, or a scattering of thin lime slices nestled beside the fillets. A light drizzle of extra lime juice right before eating keeps everything bright and fresh.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Consider fluffy cilantro-lime rice to echo the citrus themes, or crisp roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for added texture. A simple mixed greens salad with avocado and a tangy vinaigrette also complements the salmon’s bold flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more creative flair, serve the salmon over warm corn tortillas with a dollop of mango salsa and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a delicious fish taco twist. Alternatively, arrange the fillets atop a bed of quinoa and black beans for a colorful, protein-packed bowl that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salmon will keep well for up to 2 days, maintaining most of its flavor and texture if properly chilled.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked salmon for longer storage. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in a freezer bag. This Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe can be frozen for up to 2 months without significant loss in quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently to preserve moisture and texture. The oven or air fryer is best at a low temperature—about 275°F for 5 to 7 minutes—until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the salmon quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the fillets, pat them dry, and bring them to room temperature before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What if I don’t have Goya Sazón seasoning?
No problem! You can substitute with a mixture of ground coriander, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of turmeric to mimic the color and flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use skin-on salmon?
Using skin-on fillets helps keep the salmon moist and adds a friendly crispiness when cooked in the air fryer. However, you can use skinless fillets if you prefer—just watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out.
Can I prepare the cilantro lime sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. The sauce can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before spooning it over the salmon, as the flavors meld even more with a bit of rest.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I make this recipe another way?
Definitely. You can bake the salmon at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes or pan-sear it on the stove until cooked through, then top with the cilantro lime mixture. The air fryer just adds extra crispiness and faster cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about how this Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe comes together so quickly yet delivers such vibrant, fresh flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, special dinners, or anytime you want a healthy meal that feels indulgent. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire, bringing a little bright joy to your table every time.
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Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
This Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon recipe offers a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic seafood dish. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a crispy exterior and tender interior, the salmon is seasoned with a zesty blend of Goya Sazón con Culantro y Achiote and topped with a fresh cilantro-lime mixture. Quick and easy, this recipe is ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 2 skin-on salmon fillets (4 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 10 grams Goya Foods Sazón con Culantro y Achiote
Cilantro Lime Topping
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (about 1 lime)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Before cooking, bring the salmon fillets to room temperature and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture for better crisping in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the avocado oil and Goya Sazón con Culantro y Achiote seasoning until well blended.
- Season the Salmon: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each salmon fillet to ensure thorough flavor coverage.
- Air Fry the Salmon: Place one salmon fillet skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 11-13 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Repeat the process with the second fillet.
- Prepare the Cilantro Lime Sauce: In another small bowl, mix together the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and lime zest.
- Finish and Serve: Brush or spoon the cilantro-lime mixture evenly over each cooked salmon fillet. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges on the side for extra zest.
Notes
- Bringing the salmon to room temperature before cooking helps achieve more even cooking.
- Patting the salmon dry is essential for a crispy skin.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for perfectly cooked salmon.
- You can double the recipe if cooking for more people, but cook in batches for best results.
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Goya Sazón seasoning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and eaten within 2 days.
