Golden air fried bass fillet served on a white plate with lemon wedges and herbs

Tender and Juicy Air Fryer Bass Fillet

Tender and Juicy Air Fryer Bass Fillet
easystar
12 mintime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories220kcal

Carbs2gram

Fat8gram

Protein30gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • bass fillet (fresh, skin-on)200 g
  • olive oil (extra virgin)1 tbsp
  • lemon juice (freshly squeezed)1 tbsp
  • garlic powder0.5 tsp
  • paprika0.5 tsp
  • salt (preferably sea salt)0.5 tsp
  • black pepper (freshly ground)0.25 tsp
  • fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)1 tbsp

This recipe will guide you through cooking a tender and juicy bass fillet using an air fryer. It's an easy, quick method that yields perfectly cooked fish with a crispy edge. The recipe prioritizes food safety by ensuring the fish reaches the safe internal temperature for fish consumption. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $7 (6 euros, 5 pounds, 525 rupees), and the dish contains roughly 220 kcal per serving. Suitable for gluten-free and low-carb diets. The recipe complexity is easy, and total cooking time is about 20 minutes.

Preparation instructions

Preheat the air fryer

1Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (355°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy finish for your bass fillet.

Prepare the bass fillet

2Pat the bass fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in getting a crispy surface. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

Season the fish

3In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the bass fillet to flavor the fish thoroughly.

Place the fillet in the air fryer basket

4Arrange the seasoned bass fillet in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Make sure it is not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.

Cook the bass fillet

5Air fry the bass fillet at 180°C (355°F) for 10-12 minutes. Cooking times can vary depending on thickness; the fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork, is opaque throughout, and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) as measured with a food-safe thermometer.

Check for doneness and serve

6After cooking, use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is at least 63°C (145°F). This temperature is essential to ensure the fish is safe to eat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Cooking Tips

-Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

-Patting the fish dry before cooking prevents steaming and helps achieve a crispy finish.

-If you don’t have lemon juice, a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of vinegar can add acidity and enhance flavor.

-Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

-Use fresh herbs like dill or thyme as an alternative garnish for extra flavor.

Equipment Needed

  • Air fryer
  • Small bowl
  • Pastry brush or spoon for oil
  • Food-safe thermometer (recommended for safety)
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Paper towels
  • Cutting board and knife (if garnishing with fresh herbs)

Grocery Shopping List

  • [ ] Fresh bass fillet (approx. 200 g) - around $5.50. Choose firm, shiny, and fresh-smelling fish from a reputable seafood counter.
  • [ ] Extra virgin olive oil (small bottle or use what you have) - approx. $0.50 for 1 tbsp.
  • [ ] Fresh lemon - approx. $0.50. Select a bright yellow lemon without soft spots.
  • [ ] Garlic powder (spice jar) - approx. $0.30 for a small amount.
  • [ ] Paprika (spice jar) - approx. $0.30.
  • [ ] Sea salt - approx. $0.10 for needed amount.
  • [ ] Black pepper (freshly ground recommended) - approx. $0.10.
  • [ ] Fresh parsley (small bunch, optional) - approx. $0.50.

Total estimated cost: ~$7.00.

Tips: Buying fresh fish from trusted sources ensures quality and food safety. Use spices and herbs you already have at home to save money and add convenient flavor.

FAQ

What internal temperature should bass fillet reach to be safe to eat?

The bass fillet should reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) to ensure it is safe for consumption.

Can I use frozen bass fillet for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the bass fillet in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.

How do I know when the bass fillet is cooked properly?

When the fish flakes easily with a fork, is opaque throughout, and has reached the safe internal temperature of 63°C (145°F), it is properly cooked.

Can I substitute other fish for bass in this air fryer recipe?

Absolutely! White fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia will work well with similar cooking times and temperatures.

Is it necessary to use a food thermometer?

While not strictly necessary, a food thermometer is highly recommended to ensure the fish reaches a safe internal temperature for safe consumption.