Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon

Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is a flavorful, quick-cooking dish that brings bold seasoning and eye-catching presentation together in one easy meal. The salmon fillets are thinly sliced, rubbed with spices, and cooked to perfection in the air fryer—crispy at the edges, juicy inside, and packed with spice in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes minimal effort but looks impressive and tastes restaurant-worthy. The Hasselback cuts allow the heat and seasoning to penetrate the fish, making it extra flavorful and perfectly cooked. The air fryer crisps the edges beautifully while keeping the inside tender. It’s quick, healthy, and full of spicy flavor that I crave.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• Olive oil

• Paprika

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Lemon slices (for stuffing into cuts)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. I pat the salmon dry and place each fillet skin-side down on a cutting board.

2. Using a sharp knife, I make deep cuts across the fillet, about ½ inch apart, being careful not to slice all the way through.

3. In a small bowl, I mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

4. I brush or rub the spice mixture all over the salmon, making sure it gets into the cuts.

5. I insert thin lemon slices into a few of the slits for flavor and presentation.

6. I preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C), then place the fillets in the basket, leaving space around them for air circulation.

7. I cook for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

8. I garnish with chopped herbs and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2–3 servings and takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. It’s ready in 20 minutes total, making it perfect for a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Variations

Sometimes I swap cayenne for chili flakes or sriracha for a different heat. I’ve also used a honey-lime glaze instead of dry spices for a sweet-and-spicy combo. For added crunch, I’ve topped the salmon with a sprinkle of panko during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

storage/reheating

I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes or gently warm it in a skillet. I avoid the microwave to prevent overcooking.

FAQs

What is Hasselback-style?

It refers to making several shallow cuts across the surface of the food—originally potatoes—to create more surface area for seasoning and texture.

Can I make this with frozen salmon?

Yes, but I make sure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before slicing and seasoning to ensure even cooking and crisp edges.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s moderately spicy, but I control the heat by adjusting the cayenne. I always start small and add more if I want extra heat.

Can I bake this instead of air frying?

Yes, I bake it at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, but the air fryer gives a crispier finish and faster cook time.

What sides go well with spicy salmon?

I love pairing it with roasted veggies, rice, quinoa, or a crisp cucumber salad to balance the spice.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Spicy Hasselback Salmon is a quick and flavorful way to shake up my dinner routine. The spice blend, lemon slices, and perfectly cooked fish make each bite bold and delicious. It’s easy to prep, cooks fast, and never fails to impress—exactly the kind of meal I come back to again and again.