Air fryer salmon tacos with slaw offer a delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite. The combination of perfectly cooked salmon with fresh, crisp slaw wrapped in a soft tortilla creates a meal that satisfies and delights. The air fryer makes cooking quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish in no time. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, these tacos will impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
These air fryer salmon tacos with slaw stand out for several reasons. First, the salmon cooks quickly in the air fryer, reducing prep time and making it accessible for busy weeknights. The air fryer gives the salmon a delightful crisp without the need for added oil, making it a healthier option. Furthermore, the slaw adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color that enhances the overall dish. The tangy dressing complements the rich salmon perfectly, creating a balance of flavors that excites your taste buds. Finally, this meal is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings, making every taco uniquely yours.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
- 1 lb salmon fillet
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Hot sauce (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the salmon by patting it dry with paper towels, then place it in a bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning over the fish to coat.
- Place the seasoned salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon cooks, prepare the slaw. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.
- Once the salmon is done, remove it from the air fryer and break it into bite-sized pieces.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable.
- Assemble your tacos by placing a portion of the salmon on each tortilla, topping it with the slaw, and adding hot sauce if desired.
How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
When serving your air fryer salmon tacos with slaw, presentation is key. You can arrange them on a large platter for a family-style meal or stack them neatly on individual plates for a more formal touch. Consider adding a little extra crunch by serving with lime wedges and a small bowl of your favorite hot sauce alongside the tacos. This allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking, enhancing the overall dining experience. Pair these tacos with a side of rice or some black beans for a complete meal that offers a balance of protein and fiber. For a refreshing drink, consider serving sparkling water with lime or a light herbal iced tea to keep the flavors bright and enjoyable.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
To elevate your air fryer salmon tacos with slaw, consider sourcing high-quality, fresh salmon. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a better flavor and texture than farmed varieties. When seasoning the salmon, feel free to experiment with different spices like cumin or cayenne pepper for added depth and warmth. If you prefer a lighter slaw, swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, which still offers a creamy texture with less fat. If you want to add extra flair to your tacos, try garnishing them with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or pickled red onions. Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time for the salmon, as the thickness of the fillet can vary. You want it cooked through but still moist, so adjust the time as needed.
How to Store Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
Storing leftover air fryer salmon tacos with slaw requires some care to maintain freshness. If you have leftover salmon and slaw, store them separately in airtight containers. The salmon can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, while the slaw will stay fresh for about the same time, although it’s best enjoyed when freshly made. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat the salmon in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispness. If you prefer, you can also use the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat it, as this can lead to dry salmon.
Variations of Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
To give your air fryer salmon tacos with slaw a personal touch, consider trying out a few variations. For a spicy twist, add jalapeños to the slaw or top your tacos with a spicy crema made from sour cream, lime juice, and chipotle peppers. If you’re in the mood for something citrusy, substitute lime juice with orange juice in the slaw dressing for a sweeter, refreshing flavor. For an added crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds to the slaw. If you’re feeling adventurous, try replacing the salmon with shrimp or chicken, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Vegan options are also possible; consider using tofu that you marinate and air fry to bring out rich flavors while keeping the dish plant-based.
FAQ about Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
What is the best type of salmon to use for air fryer salmon tacos?
Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon if possible, as it typically has a richer flavor and better texture.
Can I use frozen salmon for air fryer salmon tacos?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and cooking.
How long do air fryer salmon tacos with slaw take to make?
From start to finish, these tacos take about 30 minutes, making them a quick and delicious meal option.
Can I make the slaw ahead of time for air fryer salmon tacos?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the slaw for air fryer salmon tacos?
For a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt, avocado, or a vinaigrette as a substitute for mayonnaise.
Are air fryer salmon tacos gluten-free?
If you use corn tortillas and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, then yes, they can easily be made gluten-free.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
Check that the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 1 lb salmon fillet Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for best flavor.
- 1 tsp olive oil Used for seasoning the salmon.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds flavor to the salmon.
- 1 tsp garlic powder For seasoning the salmon.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
For the Slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage Provides crunch and texture.
- 1 cup shredded carrots Added for color and sweetness.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro For freshness.
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise Creamy base for the dressing.
- 1 tbsp lime juice For tanginess.
- 1 tsp honey Balances the flavors.
- to taste Hot sauce Optional for spice.
For Serving
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour) For wrapping the tacos.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the salmon by patting it dry with paper towels, then place it in a bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning over the fish to coat.
Cooking
- Place the seasoned salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon cooks, prepare the slaw. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.
- Once the salmon is done, remove it from the air fryer and break it into bite-sized pieces.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable.
Assembly
- Assemble your tacos by placing a portion of the salmon on each tortilla, topping it with the slaw, and adding hot sauce if desired.
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