I remember one evening when I stumbled on the magic of an Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo. I was juggling a busy weeknight—kids’ activities, work deadlines, and that ever-elusive desire for something nourishing yet effortless. I wanted a meal that felt fresh and satisfying without the fuss. So, I grabbed some salmon fillets, tossed them in the air fryer, and whipped up a spicy mayo sauce to drizzle on top. It was one of those simple discoveries where healthy meets delicious with zero stress. The crispy air fryer salmon paired with the creamy, tangy spicy mayo sauce felt like a mini celebration in a bowl.
What You’ll Need:
To make your Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo, here’s my simple, practical grocery list:
- 1 lb salmon fillets (skin on or off) – I usually use wild-caught if I can find it on sale.
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa – great base for a healthy salmon bowl.
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or mixed greens – fresh crunch.
- 1 avocado, sliced – creamy texture that balances the spice.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots – easy to grab from the produce section.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil – for brushing the salmon.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
For the spicy mayo sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise – You can try my easy creamy homemade mayonnaise recipe for a fresher twist.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce – adjust to heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or rice vinegar – adds a bright zing.
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup – just a touch of sweetness.
No stress if you don’t have sriracha—I often swap it for hot chili flakes or even a dash of smoked paprika in my Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo. If you’re short on fresh veggies, frozen peas or steamed broccoli are fantastic quick swaps.
This Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo stays affordable by using accessible ingredients you can find in your regular grocery store. Plus, leftovers keep beautifully for up to two days sealed tight in the fridge, perfect for easy next-day quick dinner bowls.
For busy days, I sometimes prep the spicy mayo sauce a few days ahead and keep it chilled. I also cook double the rice or quinoa batch to store for another meal. Pro tip: add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have them on hand—I love adding extra brightness to mine.
Let’s Make It Together!
1. Prep your salmon by patting it dry with paper towels. Lightly brush the fillets with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and pepper evenly. This simple step is crucial for that crispy air fryer salmon finish.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (about 200°C). My Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo usually cooks perfectly in this temperature range—crispy on the outside and tender inside.
3. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Pro tip: no need to flip; the air fryer does the work for you.
4. While the salmon cooks, mix your spicy mayo sauce. Just combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and honey in a small bowl. Give it a taste and tweak the heat or tang as you like.
5. Prep your bowls: fluff cooked rice or quinoa and spread into your serving bowls. Add your shredded cabbage, carrots, and sliced avocado on top or to the side.
6. Once the salmon is done, check that it flakes easily with a fork and smells wonderful. That crispy air fryer salmon crust is my favorite part!
7. Serve the salmon over your bowl, then drizzle generously with the spicy mayo sauce. If you love a bit of crunch, sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
8. Enjoy immediately! Or wrap leftovers tightly and keep chilled for a meal the next day.
I used to overcomplicate making a healthy salmon bowl until I realized keeping the seasoning simple and relying on the air fryer to crisp the salmon was the secret to success. While your Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo cooks, it’s an excellent time to set the table or prep a quick side like edamame or a cucumber salad for extra volume.
If you want to try a slightly different take, I recommend checking out these Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites – I Am Homesteader for a spicy crunch twist or the Air Fryer Sticky Salmon Bowls from Yes To Yolks for an alternate sauce take. Both are fantastic spins on easy salmon recipes.
How I Love to Serve This!
This Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo becomes a complete meal when I add simple sides like steamed snap peas or a fresh cucumber salad. The crunchy, cooling vegetables balance the richness of the salmon and mayo sauce perfectly.
For a fun weekend dinner, I serve this with a side of soy-glazed roasted Brussels sprouts. The contrast of flavors and textures really brings the bowl to life, making it feel a little special but still wonderfully simple.
Presentation-wise, I like to keep it informal but inviting—bright bowls, a generous drizzle of that spicy mayo sauce, and maybe a wedge of lemon on the side. It turns a quick meal into a bit of a ritual, which I love.
My family responds so well to this dish. The crispy air fryer salmon is always a hit, and the spicy mayo sauce adds just enough zing to keep interest without overwhelming. Leftovers get packed for lunch or repurposed into quick salmon wraps with some extra greens.
Seasonally, I swap the cabbage for fresh spring peas in warmer months or roasted root vegetables when it’s cooler. It’s such a versatile healthy salmon bowl!
For more neat presentation ideas or extra bowl inspiration, check out my Japanese Katsu Bowls recipe—it’s a great companion when you love the bowl concept but want a change in flavors.
Common Questions Answered
Can I make this Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can cook the salmon and prep the rice ahead, then store them in separate containers. I find that waiting to dress it with the spicy mayo sauce until just before eating keeps everything tasting fresh. It’s great for quick dinner bowls during a busy week.
What if I don’t have all the ingredients for this Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo?
No worries! If you’re missing mayo, try this homemade mayonnaise recipe I love—simple and creamy. For veggies, use whatever you have on hand: steamed broccoli, roasted zucchini, or even frozen peas work really well.
How can I adjust the flavor of this Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo to my taste?
Feel free to adjust the spicy mayo sauce’s heat by adding more or less sriracha or swapping it for chili flakes. For a tangier bite, add extra lemon or rice vinegar.
Can I use frozen salmon in this recipe?
Yes, just thaw it fully first for best results. Frozen salmon from quality sources works well in an air fryer for a nutritious, crispy finish.
Is the crispy air fryer salmon suitable for kids?
Definitely! The air fryer method keeps salmon moist but with a slight crisp that kids tend to like. Adjust the spicy mayo sauce by reducing the heat or serving it on the side.
How long does the Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo take to cook?
From start to finish, it’s about 20-25 minutes including prep and cook time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. While waiting, you could even prep a simple side salad or set out drinks.
Can I try other fish or proteins for this bowl?
For sure! Chicken, tofu, or even shrimp would work with the spicy mayo sauce. For more protein ideas, check out my salmon piccata recipe or the Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Spicy Mayo : r/EatCheapAndHealthy.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo really holds a special spot in my kitchen routine—simple enough for busy nights but special enough to savor together. It reminds me daily that feel-good food doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming.
My favorite Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo tips:
- Don’t skip drying the salmon—it’s the secret to crispy air fryer salmon every time.
- Mix the spicy mayo sauce a day ahead for even better flavor.
- Keep extra fresh lemon on hand to brighten your bowls just before serving.
I’ve tried several variations: swapping out rice for cauliflower rice, using a miso glaze instead of spicy mayo, or adding crunchy nuts on top for texture. But I often come back to the classic spicy mayo version because it’s reliable, refreshing, and quick.
I hope this recipe inspires you to make your own nourishing bowls that fit right into your everyday life—and make your kitchen a place you love to be. Give it a try, add your spin, and enjoy the journey of simple, nourishing meals. You’ve got this!
For more easy salmon recipes that keep things simple and delicious, my Salmon Piccata dish is a favorite at home. And if you’re curious about creamy sauces, the homemade mayonnaise recipe is a great companion.
Happy cooking, friend!
Air Fryer Salmon Bowl With Spicy Mayo
This Air Fryer Salmon Bowl with Spicy Mayo combines perfectly cooked salmon with fresh veggies and a creamy, spicy sauce, ideal for a quick and nutritious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- While salmon cooks, prepare the spicy mayo by mixing mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Assemble the bowl: place cooked brown rice as the base, then top with steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and avocado slices.
- Once salmon is done, place on top of the bowl and drizzle with spicy mayo.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
For a milder version, reduce the amount of Sriracha or substitute with a milder chili sauce.