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Delicious crispy golden salmon belly recipe garnished with fresh herbs and lemon served in a white dish for a special dinner

how to make salmon belly recipe in 4 different ways

Searching for the best way to cook fish belly? This Salmon Belly Recipe has expert tips for maximum flavor and crunch. Try them now!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Fusion
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs fresh salmon belly with skin, cut into 4-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil for cooking at higher temperatures
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt kosher salt works well too
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground preferred
  • 2 cloves garlic minced for aromatic depth
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced for brightness
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium recommended
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for refined sugar-free option
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated for warmth
  • 2 green onions sliced for garnish

Instructions
 

  • ✅ Preparation Steps (5 minutes)
    Remove salmon belly from refrigeration 15 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature for even cooking
    Pat completely dry with paper towels – moisture is the enemy of proper browning in any salmon belly recipe
    Score the skin diagonally in a crosshatch pattern (¼-inch deep, 1-inch apart) to prevent curling and allow fat to render properly
    Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, pressing gently to adhere
    Prepare your marinade by whisking together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a shallow dish
    ✅ Pan-Seared Method (12-15 minutes)
    Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles and evaporates immediately
    Add a thin layer of oil and swirl to coat the entire surface
    Position the salmon with the skin facing up in the heated pan – you should hear a prompt sizzle.
    Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes – resist the urge to move or peek, this creates the perfect golden crust
    Gently turn with a slim spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium doneness.
    Brush with marinade in the final minute for added flavor.
    Measure internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer (145°F for food safety, 135°F for chef’s preference).
    ✅ Air Fryer Method – Crispy Salmon Belly Recipe in Air Fryer (10-12 minutes)
    Arrange salmon pieces with skin facing down in a single layer – avoid overcrowding to ensure adequate air circulation.
    Lightly brush basket with oil to prevent sticking
    Place salmon pieces skin-side down in single layer – don’t overcrowd for proper air circulation
    Cook for 8-10 minutes depending on thickness (thicker pieces need extra time)
    Use tongs to flip halfway through for uniform crispiness on each side.
    Brush with marinade in final 2 minutes for glazed finish
    ✅ Grilled Method – Grilled Salmon Belly Recipe with Soy sauce (10-12 minutes)
    Preheat grill to medium-high and clean grates thoroughly
    Oil grates generously using paper towel dipped in oil and tongs
    Position the salmon with the skin facing down at a 45-degree angle to create attractive grill marks.
    Grill without moving for 5-6 minutes until skin releases easily from grates
    Flip once carefully and brush with soy sauce marinade
    Finish cooking 3-4 minutes more, basting with additional marinade

Notes

Per Serving (6 oz portion)

 
  • Calories: 350 (18% Daily Value)
  • Protein: 28g (56% Daily Value)
  • Total Fat: 25g (32% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 6g (30% Daily Value)
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2.3g (115% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 85mg (28% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 420mg (18% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 450mg (13% Daily Value)
Keyword salmon belly, air fryer, weeknight dinner, quick meals, seafood, high protein, crispy skin, healthy