Simple nourishing meals: Air fryer salmon with sautéed summer vegetables

Fresh, colorful, and packed with nutrients, this simple summer meal comes together in about 30 minutes. Rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fats, salmon pairs beautifully with zucchini, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a light yet satisfying dinner.

Serves: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 2 center-cut salmon fillets (4–6 ounces each)

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

For the Summer Vegetable Sauté

• 2 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons (or quartered if large)

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (sweet varieties such as Sun Gold or Sweet 100 work especially well)

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced into ribbons

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Cook the Salmon

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.

2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.

3. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Season both sides of the salmon evenly with the spice mixture.

5. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for 12–14 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your preferred level of doneness.

Prepare the Vegetables

1. While the salmon cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat.

2. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften.

3. Stir in the zucchini and continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes, until just tender.

4. Add the garlic and oregano, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until they begin to blister and soften.

6. Remove from the heat and fold in fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

To Serve

Divide the sautéed vegetables between two plates and top each with a salmon fillet. Serve immediately and enjoy this colorful, nourishing meal that's perfect for a summer evening.

Wellness Tip: Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and healthy aging. Pairing it with colorful summer vegetables adds fiber, antioxidants, and a variety of vitamins and minerals to help you feel your best.