When the weekend rolls around, I find myself craving the kind of meal that feels special yet feels achievable, and this Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes fits the bill perfectly. There’s something comforting about the crisp, golden potatoes that cook to perfection while the tender salmon fillets are encrusted with a vibrant mix of fresh dill and chives.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a quest to break free from the usual weeknight routine of takeout and pre-packaged meals. Armed with just a handful of ingredients, I discovered how effortlessly I could create a gourmet dish in my own kitchen. And the best part? It takes hardly any time at all! With just 30 minutes from start to finish, I found myself enjoying a meal that felt luxurious without the fuss.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also perfect for impressing your dinner guests or treating yourself on a quiet evening at home. Ready to elevate your dinner game?
Why is Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Bursting with flavor: The fresh dill and chives add a vibrant touch that elevates the delicious salmon.
Time-efficient: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a meal that rivals any restaurant.
Crispy, golden potatoes: The air fryer ensures that your potatoes are perfectly crisp and golden, complementing the salmon beautifully.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for both family dinners and entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
Versatile: Serve this dish with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also try pairing it with a refreshing side like garlic green beans.
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Kestrel potatoes – these will give you the perfect crispy texture that’s hard to beat.
• Extra virgin olive oil – a drizzle adds an excellent flavor and helps achieve that golden crispiness.
For the Herb Crust
• Day-old bread – using stale bread makes for a crunchier topping—a delicious repurposing tip!
• Butter, melted – this helps bind the herbs to the salmon for a rich, savory crust.
• Fresh dill – adds a vibrant flavor that beautifully complements the herb-crusted salmon.
• Fresh chives – offers a mild onion taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For the Salmon
• Tassal Fresh Tassie Salmon – choose skin-off fillets for an elegant presentation and tender bite.
To Serve
• Lemon wedges – a squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the salmon.
• Extra dill – sprinkle on top for an additional burst of freshness.
How to Make Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes
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Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). This ensures an even cooking temperature for the potatoes and maximizes their crispiness.
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Prepare the potatoes by placing the quartered kestrel potatoes in the air fryer basket. Spray them lightly with olive oil and season with salt. Cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden and crispy.
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Create the herb crust: In a small food processor, pulse the day-old bread until fine crumbs form. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and add melted butter, fresh dill, chopped chives, and a pinch of seasoning. Stir until well combined.
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Coat the salmon: Take the two Tassal Fresh Tassie Salmon fillets and press the flavorful herb mixture firmly over the top of each one, creating a delicious crust.
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Cook the salmon: Place the herb-crusted salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your liking. It should be tender and flaky.
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Serve: Divide the crispy potatoes and salmon between two plates. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, garnish with lemon wedges, and sprinkle with additional fresh dill for a burst of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with a simple side salad for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the herb crust mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the bread crumbs, melted butter, dill, and chives, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. You can also quarter the kestrel potatoes up to 3 days ahead and keep them in cold water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious meal, simply air fry the potatoes, and then top the salmon with the herb crust before air frying for just 4 minutes. This way, you’ll have a satisfying, wholesome dinner with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover herb-crusted salmon and potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for about 5 minutes to maintain crispness.
Freezer: Wrap the salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or use a resealable freezer bag, for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes.
Reheating: For optimal results, reheat the salmon and potatoes in the air fryer until heated through. This ensures the potatoes regain their crispy texture while the salmon remains flaky.
Avoid sogginess: Avoid storing the salmon and potatoes together if possible; keep the potatoes separate to maintain their crunchy exterior.
Expert Tips for Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes
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Perfect Potato Prep: Cut kestrel potatoes into even quarters to ensure they cook uniformly and achieve that perfect golden crispiness.
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Bread Selection: Using day-old bread enhances the texture of the herb crust. Fresh bread can become too soft and may not form a crunchy topping.
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Crust Technique: Firmly press the herb mixture onto the salmon fillets. This ensures that the crust adheres well while cooking, resulting in a flavorful bite of herb-crusted salmon with potatoes.
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Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the salmon during the last minute of cooking. Air fryers can vary, so adjust the cook time to achieve your preferred level of doneness.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed veggies to complement the richness of the salmon. Don’t forget the lemon wedges—they brighten up the flavors beautifully!
What to Serve with Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes?
Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that harmonize beautifully with this comforting centerpiece.
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Garlic Green Beans: The crisp-tender green beans add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that balances out the rich salmon. Toss them in garlic and olive oil for added flavor!
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Simple Arugula Salad: A fresh and peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate and refreshes the palate after each savory bite of salmon.
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Creamy Risotto: Offering a luxurious texture, a rich risotto with Parmesan creates a beautiful contrast, making every forkful a decadent treat. The creaminess complements the crusty salmon wonderfully!
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Roasted Asparagus: With its mild earthiness, roasted asparagus provides a nice counterpoint to the herbaceous flavors of the salmon. A sprinkle of lemon zest can elevate the dish even further.
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Couscous with Feta & Mint: This light and fluffy side, tossed with feta and fresh mint, lends a Mediterranean flair that pairs perfectly with the salmon’s herb crust.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish, cutting through the richness of the salmon and refreshing the palate. A perfect complement for a special evening!
Herb-Crusted Salmon Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists that let you customize this dish to your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the day-old bread for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to keep it delicious and gluten-free.
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Citrus Twist: Replace lemon wedges with orange slices for a sweet, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the salmon.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a pleasant heat that brightens each bite.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese into the herb crust for a rich and savory flavor boost.
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Veggie Medley: Toss in some asparagus or green beans with the potatoes for a colorful, nutritious side that complements the meal beautifully.
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Herb Swap: Experiment by replacing dill and chives with fresh parsley and basil for a unique flavor profile. Imagine a Mediterranean vibe gracing your dinner table!
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Honey Glaze: Drizzle a little honey over the salmon after cooking for a delicious caramelized finish that sweetens the savory herbs.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your herb crust to give the salmon an enticing, smoky edge that tantalizes the palate.
Each variation opens up a world of flavors, allowing you to tailor this meal to your family’s favorites. Enjoy exploring these creative twists!
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing Kestrel potatoes, look for ones that are firm, unblemished, and free of dark spots. Ideally, they should be medium-sized to ensure even cooking. For the best results, opt for potatoes that are not sprouting, which can affect both texture and flavor.
How should I store leftover herb-crusted salmon and potatoes?
Store any leftover salmon and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the potatoes’ crispiness, it’s best to reheat them in your air fryer for about 5 minutes before serving again. You’ll love how they regain that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the herb-crusted salmon?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just cook them straight from frozen in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, ensuring they are thoroughly heated.
What should I do if I find my salmon isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, make sure the fillets are of a uniform thickness—this helps them cook at the same rate. Also, try preheating your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the salmon, and remember to check on the fish a minute or two early, as air fryers can vary in cooking times.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider with this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe contains fish and dairy (from the butter), so it may not be suitable for those with seafood or lactose allergies. If you’re preparing this for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using a dairy-free butter alternative and check the salmon for any allergens. Always feel free to customize the herb crust to match personal preferences!
Crispy Herb-Crusted Salmon with Potatoes for Dinner Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare the potatoes by placing the quartered kestrel potatoes in the air fryer basket, lightly spray with olive oil, season with salt, and cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- In a small food processor, pulse the day-old bread until fine crumbs form. Combine with melted butter, fresh dill, chopped chives, and seasoning.
- Coat the salmon fillets with the herb mixture.
- Cook the herb-crusted salmon in the air fryer for about 4 minutes, or until cooked to your liking.
- Serve with crispy potatoes, drizzled with olive oil, garnished with lemon wedges, and sprinkles of extra dill.