Laura Mariano
Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
Air Fryer Salmon Tacos are the ultimate fusion of crispy, juicy salmon, vibrant slaw, and zesty toppings—all wrapped in warm tortillas for a flavor-packed bite. Inspired by standout recipes from Mason Recipes, CooksCrafter, and Spoonabilities, this dish brings restaurant-quality tacos to your kitchen in under 30 minutes.
The air fryer delivers perfectly cooked salmon with crispy edges and tender flakes, while the slaw adds crunch and tang. Topped with creamy avocado, pickled onions, and a sprinkle of Cotija cheese, each taco is a celebration of texture and taste.
Perfect for Taco Tuesday, weeknight dinners, or casual entertaining, these tacos are easy to customize and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a fresh, flavorful twist on traditional fish tacos—with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Air Fryer Salmon Tacos are a weeknight dream—quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re ideal for busy schedules without sacrificing taste or texture.
The air fryer ensures even cooking and crispy edges with minimal oil, making this a lighter alternative to pan-fried or battered fish tacos. The slaw adds a refreshing crunch, and the toppings are endlessly customizable—from creamy avocado to spicy jalapeños.
Whether you’re craving something bold and zesty or light and fresh, this recipe adapts to your mood and pantry. It’s also great for meal prep—just cook the salmon and mix the slaw ahead of time, then assemble when ready.
Tip: Don’t skip the air fryer—it’s the secret to perfectly crisp salmon every time. Once you try these tacos, they’ll become a regular in your rotation.
Ingredient Breakdown
Core Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (skinless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–6 small tortillas (corn or flour)
Slaw Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Pickled onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Cotija cheese
Each component plays a role in the taco’s flavor balance—spiced salmon brings warmth, slaw adds tang and crunch, and toppings layer in creaminess and heat.
Tip: Save time by using a pre-shredded slaw mix. It’s a convenient shortcut that doesn’t compromise on freshness.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat while you prepare the salmon.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice blend onto both salmon fillets, then drizzle with olive oil to coat evenly.
- Air Fry the Salmon: Place fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 8–10 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
- Prepare the Slaw: While the salmon cooks, combine shredded cabbage, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss until well coated and chill until ready to use.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave under a damp paper towel for 20 seconds.
- Assemble the Tacos: Flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces. Layer slaw onto each tortilla, top with salmon, and finish with your favorite toppings like avocado, pickled onions, cilantro, jalapeños, or Cotija cheese.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.
Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, tangy, and fresh in every bite.
Variations & Substitutions
These tacos are easy to adapt for different dietary needs and flavor preferences:
- Dairy-Free: Use avocado mayo or omit cheese entirely.
- Low-Carb: Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps or use low-carb alternatives.
- Spice Level: Adjust chili powder to taste or add hot sauce for extra heat.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp, cod, or tofu for a different twist.
- Slaw Twist: Add mango, pineapple, or shredded carrots for a fruity crunch.
Tip: Elevate your tacos with a homemade chipotle crema or avocado lime sauce. Blend Greek yogurt or sour cream with chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, and garlic for a smoky, creamy drizzle.
These variations make it easy to keep the recipe fresh and exciting—whether you’re cooking for dietary restrictions or just mixing things up.
Air Fryer Salmon Tacos with Slaw Recipe | Quick & Healthy Fish Tacos with Crunchy Cabbage Slaw
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Whisk or fork
- Skillet or microwave (for tortillas)
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 2 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–6 small tortillas (corn or flour)
For the Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Avocado slices
- Pickled red onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Cotija cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Season Salmon: Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub onto salmon fillets and drizzle with olive oil.
- Cook Salmon: Place in air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes until salmon flakes easily and reaches 145°F internally.
- Make Slaw: In a bowl, combine cabbage, mayo or yogurt, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and chill.
- Warm Tortillas: Heat in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave under a damp paper towel for 20 seconds.
- Assemble Tacos: Flake salmon. Layer slaw on tortillas, top with salmon and desired toppings.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately while warm and crisp.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Prep slaw and toppings in advance. Store cooked salmon separately for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat salmon in the air fryer or oven to maintain texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas.
- Flavor Boost: Add chipotle crema or avocado lime sauce for extra zing.
- Serving Tip: Use taco holders or parchment sleeves for easy, mess-free presentation.
