Air Fried Harissa Seasoned Salmon With Cilantro Lime Rice & Shirazi Salad

What You’ll Need

For the Harissa Lime Salmon

• 1lb. salmon fillets 

• 1½ tbsp harissa paste (adjust for spice level)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lime juice (plus extra wedges for serving)

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

For the Cilantro Lime Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)

• 2 cups water or chicken/vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• Juice and zest of 1 lime

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• Salt to taste

For the Shirazi Salad

• 2 Persian cucumbers or 1 English cucumber, finely diced

• 2 Roma tomatoes, finely diced (seeds removed)

• ½ small red onion, finely diced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lime or lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s Cook

1. Prep the Salmon

1. In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, lime juice, honey, and minced garlic.

2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Brush or spoon the harissa lime marinade evenly over each fillet.

4. Let the salmon marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep the rice and salad.

2. Make the Cilantro Lime Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. In a saucepan, bring water (or broth) to a boil. Add rice, butter or olive oil, and a pinch of salt.

3. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

5. Stir in lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro. Adjust salt to taste.

3. Prepare the Shirazi Salad

1. Combine diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion in a medium bowl.

2. Add chopped herbs, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Toss gently to combine and chill until ready to serve.

4. Air Fry the Salmon

1. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).

2. Lightly oil the basket or line it with parchment for easier cleanup.

3. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket.

4. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a light crust.

5. Place bed of rice dow, shirazi salad, and salmon on rice. Enjoy!