Why this fits a family on a budget
Salmon fillets bought in a family-size pack bring the per-serving cost down to about $2.85, and the air fryer cooks them perfectly in under 12 minutes with almost no hands-on effort for a novice cook.
• 4 pieces (4 oz each) salmon fillets
• 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1.5 cups white rice
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup frozen shelled edamame
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tbsp honey
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 stalks green onions
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 1 spray cooking spray
1. Start the rice first: combine 1.5 cups white rice with 3 cups water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and cook 18 minutes until water is absorbed. Stir in the frozen edamame during the last 3 minutes of cook time — they will thaw and warm through in the steam.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
3. While the air fryer preheats, make the glaze: in a small bowl stir together the coconut aminos, honey, and rice vinegar until the honey dissolves. Set aside.
4. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels — this helps the crust stick. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Brush the top (skin-free side) of each salmon fillet generously with the coconut aminos glaze. Press about 2 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the glazed top of each piece so they adhere.
6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place salmon fillets crust-side up in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes. The crust should be deep golden brown and crispy, and the salmon should flake easily when pressed gently with a fork.
7. While salmon cooks, finish the rice: fluff it with a fork, then drizzle 2 tablespoons sesame oil over the rice and edamame. Add garlic powder and stir to combine. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed.
8. Divide the sesame edamame rice among 4 plates or bowls. Place one salmon fillet crust-side up on top of or beside each portion. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Cost is a national-average estimate and varies by store and region.
This recipe was generated by Plento Pasto's AI from a library of family-friendly dishes and reviewed for a real photo before publishing. Cooking times, costs, and nutrition are estimates — use your judgment in the kitchen.