Air Fryer Salmon Tacos Slaw

These Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw make a quick and wholesome dinner that balances crispy, perfectly cooked salmon with a bright and creamy cabbage slaw. Ready in just about 25 minutes, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying without a lot of fuss. The air fryer delivers a beautifully flaky texture to the salmon while keeping it light, making these tacos a fresh twist on a classic favorite.

I first tried this recipe during a busy weeknight when I wanted something fast yet special. Now it is a regular request at the table, especially when I want to impress without complicated steps.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Four skinless salmon fillets: about four ounces each ensure tender fish that cooks evenly
• One tablespoon olive oil: helps the spices stick and keeps the salmon moist in the air fryer
• One teaspoon chili powder: adds warmth and a hint of spice enhancing the salmon flavor
• Half a teaspoon garlic powder: provides savory depth without overpowering
• Half a teaspoon smoked paprika: gives a subtle smoky note perfect for pairing with salmon
• Half a teaspoon salt: seasons the fish to bring out natural flavors
• Two cups shredded cabbage: either red or green to create a crisp, fresh slaw
• Quarter cup chopped fresh cilantro: brightens the slaw and adds herbal freshness
• Quarter cup plain Greek yogurt: makes the slaw creamy without heaviness and adds protein
• One tablespoon lime juice: introduces acidity that cuts through richness and lifts the slaw
• Eight small corn tortillas: ideal for wrapping the salmon and slaw without overshadowing the flavors

How to Make It

Preheat the air fryer and prepare salmon:

Preheat your air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred Celsius. Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry. This step is important to help the seasoning stick well and to promote a nice texture.

Mix the seasoning and coat the salmon:

In a small bowl combine olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Brush this mixture evenly over all sides of the salmon fillets ensuring each piece is fully coated to maximize flavor.

Cook the salmon in the air fryer:

Place the salmon fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook them for eight to ten minutes. You want the salmon just cooked through so it flakes easily but still moist inside.

Prepare the cabbage slaw while salmon cooks:

In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice. Toss everything together well to create a creamy, tangy slaw that adds freshness to the tacos.

Warm the tortillas and prepare for assembly:

Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave briefly until warm and pliable. Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks that are easy to eat in taco form.

Assemble and serve:

Distribute the flaked salmon evenly among the warm tortillas. Top with generous portions of the cabbage slaw. Serve your tacos immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

My favorite ingredient has to be the smoked paprika. It adds a warm, subtle smoky flavor without overpowering the delicate salmon. I remember making this recipe for a casual dinner party and everyone commented on how the smoky hint really elevated the dish. The contrast between the crispy air-fried salmon and the cool creamy slaw makes each bite a delight.

Flavor Boosters

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The slaw keeps best if stored separately to avoid sogginess. Wrap tortillas in foil or plastic wrap and keep at room temperature or refrigerate if not using right away.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for added brightness. Add sliced avocado or pickled jalapeños to customize the toppings to your liking. Pair with a light side salad or black beans for a more filling meal.

Creative Twists

In warmer months try adding grilled corn or mango salsa to the tacos for a fresh twist. During cooler months swap cabbage with shredded kale for a more hearty slaw. Use fresh herbs like mint or basil alongside cilantro to experiment with flavor profiles.

This recipe delivers fresh, flavorful tacos that are easy to make and perfect for any weeknight. The balance of crispy salmon and creamy slaw makes each bite a delight.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best way to cook the salmon for tacos?

Cooking salmon in the air fryer ensures a crispy exterior and tender interior without added oil, making it both quick and healthy.

→ How do you prepare the cabbage slaw for these tacos?

Combine shredded cabbage, fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, and lime juice to create a creamy and tangy slaw that complements the salmon.

→ Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Yes, firm, flaky fish like cod or tilapia can be air-fried similarly and work well in these tacos.

→ What seasonings are used on the salmon?

A blend of chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and olive oil creates a flavorful, slightly smoky seasoning for the salmon.

→ How do I warm the tortillas without drying them out?

Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to keep them soft and pliable.

→ Can these tacos be prepared in advance?

While the salmon is best fresh, the cabbage slaw can be made ahead and refrigerated to save time.