Air Fryer Cod Salad: The EASY Recipe You’ll Crave

December 15, 2025

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air fryer cod salad. Yes, you read that right. This isn't your grandma's tuna salad sandwich. It's a fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly light take on a classic using the magic of the air fryer. This air fryer cod salad recipe transforms humble ingredients into something truly special.

I remember one sweltering summer afternoon, desperate for a quick and healthy lunch. I had some leftover cod, a craving for something refreshing, and the brilliant idea to ditch the frying pan for my air fryer. The result? A crisp, flaky cod that added a whole new dimension to my salad. This recipe is proof that delicious can also be easy. Let's get cooking!

Why You Will Love This air fryer cod salad Recipe

This air fryer cod salad is a game changer for so many reasons. First, the air fryer cooks the cod to perfection in minutes, creating a flaky, slightly crispy texture that’s far superior to pan frying. No more greasy fish aroma lingering in your kitchen for days!

Beyond that, it’s incredibly versatile. This salad is fantastic on its own, served over a bed of greens, or tucked into a whole wheat pita pocket. It's a perfect weeknight meal! It's quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it requires minimum effort. It's also a great way to introduce kids to seafood! I love how this Lemon Salad complements it.

Ingredients Needed for This air fryer cod salad Recipe

Here's what you'll need to create your own delicious air fryer cod salad:

For the Air Fryer Cod:
- 1 pound cod fillets, skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make This air fryer cod salad Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect air fryer cod salad:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Brush the cod fillets with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Place the cod fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.

Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
While the cod is cooking, prepare the salad dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
Add the celery, red onion, and parsley to the dressing and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Once the cod is cooked, let it cool slightly, then flake it into bite sized pieces using a fork.
Gently fold the flaked cod into the salad dressing mixture. Be careful not to overmix.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice or pepper to taste!

How to Serve This air fryer cod salad Recipe

This air fryer cod salad is incredibly versatile! Serve it chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce for a light and refreshing lunch. I also enjoy it in a whole wheat pita pocket or as a topping for crackers. Think about adding sliced avocado for a creamy, healthy fat!

For a complete meal, pair it with a side of fresh fruit. If you're looking for something different, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra tang. Did you know this complements Grilled Cod Casserole dishes?!

How to Store This air fryer cod salad Recipe

Store any leftover air fryer cod salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed cold.

Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise tends to separate when thawed, resulting in a watery texture. Reheating is also not advised, as the cod might become dry.

Tips to Make This air fryer cod salad Recipe

One of my favorite tricks is to experiment with different herbs and spices. Dill, chives, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a whole new dimension to the flavor. Feel free to swap out the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

If you don’t have red onion on hand, yellow onion or scallions work just as well. Be sure to not overcook the cod in the air fryer, overcooked cod can be dry.

Helpful Notes for This air fryer cod salad Recipe

For best results, use cod fillets that are roughly the same thickness. This will ensure even cooking. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the cod in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through.

You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your liking. If you prefer a lighter salad, use less mayonnaise and more lemon juice.

Variation of This air fryer cod salad Recipe

For a spicy version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salad dressing. You can also add chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

Consider adding chopped hard boiled eggs for extra protein and richness. You could also try using different types of fish, such as haddock or mahi mahi. For a Mediterranean twist, add chopped olives, sun dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is air fryer cod salad?

Air fryer cod salad is a modern twist on a classic salad, where cod fillets are cooked in an air fryer for a healthier and quicker method. The cooked cod is then flaked and mixed with various salad ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing.

Is air fryer cod salad healthy?

Yes, air fryer cod salad can be a very healthy meal option. Air frying requires less oil for cooking, reducing the fat content. Cod is also a lean protein source, and the salad provides vitamins and fiber from the vegetables.

How long does air fryer cod take to cook?

Depending on the thickness of the cod fillets and your air fryer model, it typically takes around 8-12 minutes to cook cod in an air fryer at a temperature of 400°F (200°C). Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

What dressings go well with air fryer cod salad?

Light and refreshing dressings complement air fryer cod salad best. Options include lemon vinaigrette, avocado dressing, dill dressing, or a simple mixture of olive oil and vinegar. Avoid heavy, creamy dressings that can overpower the delicate flavor of the cod.