Air Fryer Pineapple Salmon Skewers
If you’re searching for a healthy and super quick dinner idea, these Air Fryer Pineapple Salmon Skewers are just what you need! If you love sweet and savory combos like I do, this salmon combined with juicy pineapple, crisp red bell pepper, and red onions is going to be a hit – and it’s all cooked to perfection in under 15 minutes.
Quick Video
Why I think you’ll like these Pineapple Salmon Skewers
Fast and Easy: When I say this comes together quick, I mean it. Ready in just 30 minutes, including prep time! There is a little bit of cutting and chopping, but it’s very fast and easy. Nothing too fussy.
Healthy: Packed with protein, vitamins, and Omega-3s from the salmon, plus the refreshing burst of pineapple. This is one of those sneaky healthy meals because it tastes so dang good.
Versatile: These skewers can be served with rice, salad, or your favorite side dishes. And you can easily swap out the ingredients for what you have on hand or based on your preferences
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means fewer dishes and less mess. We love that!
Ingredients
Fresh salmon: Who doesn’t love salmon? High in Omega-3s and lean protein, making it a nutritious choice.
Pineapple: Adds natural tangy sweetness to balance the savory marinade. Mango or peaches could work here as well though if you don’t have a pineapple handy.
Red onion & red bell pepper: Provide a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.
Flavorful marinade: Flavor up the salmon with a super simple mixture of soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Salmon: The marinade not only flavors the salmon but also tenderizes it, ensuring it stays juicy after cooking. Not for too long though. 20-30 minutes or so is plenty.
Thread and Cook: Alternating the salmon, pineapple, and vegetables on skewers allows even cooking, and air frying at 360°F for around 12-14 minutes. Now air fryers do tend to run a bit different so use your judgment. You want your salmon to hit an internal temp of 145°F and those veggies should get a bit tender.
Garnish and Serve: Top your skewers with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. I served mine with coconut lime rice for a simple and complete meal.
Pro Tips:
- Air Fryer Settings: Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the salmon.
- Pre-soak Wooden Skewers: If you happen to be using wooden skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for at least 15 minutes to keep them from burning.
Pair It With:
Serve these skewers with a refreshing side like coconut lime rice or a nice salad.
Air Fryer Pineapple Salmon Skewers
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups pineapple cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 red bell pepper cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 small red onion cut into 1-inch pieces
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1.5 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
- Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Add salmon cubes to the marinade and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. Reserve the remaining marinade.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the salmon, pineapple, red pepper, and onion alternately onto skewers.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Skewers: Lightly spray the skewers with cooking oil. Air fry at 360°F for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with reserved marinade. Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The veggies should be slightly caramelized by the end.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with coconut lime rice or your favorite side.
Video
FAQs for Air Fryer Pineapple Salmon Skewers
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
Can I grill these skewers instead of air frying?
Absolutely! You can grill them over medium heat, flipping once, for about the same time.
What can I substitute for pineapple?
If you prefer, you can substitute pineapple with mango or even peaches for a similar sweet contrast.
I hope you like this as much as I did. Leave me a comment below to let me know how they turned out!
