This is the kind of dinner that looks impressive but comes together with very little effort: Crispy panko-crusted salmon served with smashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. This easy one-tray meal comes together in a single batch for a complete weeknight dinner.

The Infrared Air Fryer Surface XXL, 6.3QT / 6L makes this trio possible thanks to its 12.7" square cooking surface — there's room for the salmon in the center and sides on either side, so everything cooks together in one batch. No more juggling the oven and the air fryer basket.

TYPE:
Main Course
DIFFICULTY:
Intermediate
SERVES:
2 Servings
PREP TIME:
20 Minutes
COOK TIME:
20 Minutes
A barbecue grill featuring fresh asparagus and salmon, highlighting their colors and textures in a cooking setting.A barbecue grill featuring fresh asparagus and salmon, highlighting their colors and textures in a cooking setting.

Ingredients Needed for Cooking This Recipe (Serves 2)

For the salmon fillets:

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Dijon mustard
  • Olive oil spray

For the Asparagus:

  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Potatoes:

  • 1 lb baby potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: fresh parsley , chopped and extra parmesan chesse for topping, lemon wedges to serve.

How to Cook Salmon and Sides in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Boil baby potatoes until fork tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly. Smash each potato gently with the bottom of a glass, then season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix panko, parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread a thin layer of mayo or Dijon mustard over each salmon fillet, then press the panko mixture firmly onto the top of the salmon.

Step 3: Prepare the Asparagus

Toss asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, parmesan, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Air Fry

Select Air Fry mode and set the temperature to 400°F. Arrange the potatoes on one side of the T-fal Infrared Air Fryer Surface XXL and the asparagus on the other. Place the salmon on the stainless steel rack in the center. Lightly spray everything with olive oil. Cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the panko topping is golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Finish with flaky salt, lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and extra parmesan if desired.

How to Season Salmon for the Crispiest Top

The combination of panko, parmesan, paprika, and garlic powder creates a crunchy, golden crust that locks in moisture. A thin layer of mayo or Dijon underneath acts as the "glue" that helps the panko stick and crisp up beautifully.

Pro Tip

Pat the salmon dry before adding the panko crust — extra moisture prevents the topping from getting crispy. For perfectly cooked salmon, the internal temperature should read 125–130°F for medium.