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Crispy Skin Salmon with Cherry Tomato Sauce

This dish features salmon fillets cooked to perfection in the air fryer, resulting in irresistibly crispy skin and tender flesh. Paired with a bright, bubbling cherry tomato sauce, it combines crunchy, juicy, and saucy textures for a delightful meal. The process highlights managing heat and timing to achieve a restaurant-quality finish at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Modern American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets preferably with skin on
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
  • to taste none salt and pepper generous seasoning
  • 1 pint cup cherry tomatoes ripe and juicy
  • 2 cloves garlic garlic minced fresh
  • a handful none fresh basil chopped, optional
  • 1/2 cup cup tomato sauce bright and zingy

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Stovetop pan
  • Cooking spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
  2. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil to promote crispy skin and prevent sticking in the air fryer.
  3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching, and set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Cook for 8-10 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy, listening for that satisfying crackle when lifted.
  4. Meanwhile, chop the cherry tomatoes in half and mince the garlic. Set a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then add the cherry tomatoes. Sauté until they start to burst and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes, filling the kitchen with a bright aroma.
  6. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in chopped basil if using. Let the sauce simmer gently, bubbling softly, for about 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
  7. Once the salmon is cooked through and skin is crispy, carefully lift each fillet out of the air fryer, revealing a tender interior and crunchy skin.
  8. Plate the crispy salmon fillets and spoon the warm cherry tomato sauce generously over the top, allowing the sauce to soak into the flaky flesh and add vibrant color and flavor.
  9. Enjoy your crispy-skinned salmon with the tangy, bubbling tomato sauce for a satisfying and flavorful meal.