Air Fryer Smoked Salmon Wontons: A Crispy, Flavorful Delight

Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious appetizer or snack? Look no further than these Air Fryer Smoked Salmon Wontons! This recipe combines the delicate flavor of smoked salmon with the crispy, satisfying crunch of wonton wrappers, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer. It’s a sophisticated yet simple dish that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a delightful weeknight treat.

This recipe leverages the magic of the air fryer to achieve a golden-brown, crispy texture without the need for deep frying. This makes the wontons significantly healthier and lighter than their deep-fried counterparts. The smoky, savory filling complements the crispy shell beautifully, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, the entire process is surprisingly quick and easy, making it a winner for busy cooks.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Quick and Easy:** From prep to plate, these wontons come together in under 30 minutes.
* **Healthy(ish):** Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil compared to traditional frying.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh herbs is simply irresistible.
* **Versatile:** Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
* **Impressive:** Looks and tastes gourmet but is incredibly easy to make.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather these ingredients:

* **Wonton Wrappers:** 1 package (usually contains around 50 wrappers). Look for them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, near the tofu and egg roll wrappers.
* **Smoked Salmon:** 4 ounces, finely chopped. Use good quality smoked salmon for the best flavor.
* **Cream Cheese:** 4 ounces, softened. This is crucial for binding the filling and adding creaminess. Make sure it’s properly softened, otherwise you’ll struggle to mix it properly.
* **Fresh Dill:** 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Dill pairs perfectly with salmon and adds a fresh, vibrant flavor. Fresh chives are a good substitute if you can’t find dill.
* **Fresh Chives:** 1 tablespoon, finely chopped. Chives add a mild oniony flavor that complements the other ingredients.
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 teaspoon. A touch of lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the salmon and cream cheese.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1/4 teaspoon. A subtle hint of garlic enhances the savory flavor.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/4 teaspoon. Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice.
* **Egg:** 1, beaten (for egg wash). The egg wash helps the wontons achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and ensures they seal properly.
* **Cooking Spray:** For greasing the air fryer basket. This prevents the wontons from sticking.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Air Fryer:** A standard air fryer will work perfectly. The size will determine how many wontons you can cook at once.
* **Mixing Bowl:** For preparing the filling.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping the salmon and herbs.
* **Sharp Knife:** For finely chopping the ingredients.
* **Small Bowl:** For the egg wash.
* **Pastry Brush:** For applying the egg wash.
* **Spoon or Small Cookie Scoop:** For filling the wontons.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Air Fryer Smoked Salmon Wontons:

**1. Prepare the Filling:**

* In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped smoked salmon, fresh dill, fresh chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper.
* Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cream cheese tough.

**2. Assemble the Wontons:**

* Lay out a wonton wrapper on a clean, dry surface. Keep the remaining wrappers covered with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
* Place about 1 teaspoon of the smoked salmon filling in the center of the wonton wrapper. Don’t overfill them, or they will be difficult to seal and may burst during cooking.
* In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork to create the egg wash.
* Using a pastry brush or your finger, lightly brush the edges of the wonton wrapper with the egg wash. This will act as a glue to seal the wonton.
* Fold the wonton wrapper in half diagonally to form a triangle. Press the edges firmly to seal, making sure to remove any air pockets. Alternatively, you can fold them into other shapes, such as purses or rectangles. Get creative!
* Repeat the process with the remaining wonton wrappers and filling.

**3. Air Fry the Wontons:**

* Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispier result.
* Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This will prevent the wontons from sticking.
* Place the filled wontons in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding will prevent them from cooking evenly and becoming crispy. You may need to cook them in batches.
* Spray the tops of the wontons with a light coating of cooking spray. This will help them brown evenly.
* Air fry for 6-8 minutes, or until the wontons are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking time.

**4. Serve and Enjoy:**

* Carefully remove the air-fried wontons from the air fryer basket.
* Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. See suggestions below!

## Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Smoked Salmon Wontons

* **Don’t Overfill:** Overfilling the wontons is a common mistake that can lead to them bursting open during cooking. Stick to about 1 teaspoon of filling per wonton.
* **Seal Tightly:** Ensure the edges of the wontons are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out. The egg wash is your best friend here!
* **Don’t Overcrowd:** Overcrowding the air fryer basket will result in soggy wontons. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Preheat the Air Fryer:** Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and a crispier texture.
* **Use Good Quality Smoked Salmon:** The quality of the smoked salmon will significantly impact the flavor of the wontons. Choose a reputable brand and opt for a variety with a good smoky flavor.
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** Air fryers vary, so adjust the cooking time as needed. Keep a close eye on the wontons and remove them when they are golden brown and crispy.
* **Experiment with Fillings:** While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with other fillings. Consider adding capers, red onion, or a dash of hot sauce to the smoked salmon mixture.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the wontons ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. Add the egg wash just before air frying.
* **Freezing:** For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled wontons. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

## Dipping Sauce Suggestions

These Air Fryer Smoked Salmon Wontons are delicious on their own, but a dipping sauce can elevate them to the next level. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Sweet Chili Sauce:** A classic pairing for wontons, offering a sweet and spicy kick.
* **Soy Sauce with Ginger and Garlic:** A simple yet flavorful sauce that complements the savory filling.
* **Creamy Dill Sauce:** A perfect match for the smoked salmon, enhancing the creamy and herbaceous notes. Combine sour cream, dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
* **Sriracha Mayo:** For those who like a little heat, mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce to taste.
* **Ponzu Sauce:** A Japanese citrus-based sauce that adds a bright and tangy flavor.
* **Wasabi Mayo:** Adds a spicy and pungent kick.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Vegetarian Option:** Substitute the smoked salmon with finely chopped cooked mushrooms or water chestnuts for a vegetarian version.
* **Different Cheese:** Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, for a different flavor profile.
* **Add Vegetables:** Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots into the filling for added nutrients and texture.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy twist.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Use gluten-free wonton wrappers if you have a gluten intolerance.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Appetizer:** Serve as a party appetizer or snack.
* **Light Meal:** Enjoy a few wontons with a side salad for a light and satisfying meal.
* **Game Day Snack:** A crowd-pleasing snack for game day gatherings.
* **Holiday Appetizer:** A sophisticated and festive appetizer for holiday celebrations.
* **Potluck Dish:** An easy and delicious dish to bring to a potluck.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per Wonton – values will vary based on ingredients and portion size)

* Calories: 50-70
* Fat: 3-5g
* Saturated Fat: 2-3g
* Cholesterol: 15-20mg
* Sodium: 50-70mg
* Carbohydrates: 3-5g
* Protein: 2-3g

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover air-fried wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They will lose some of their crispness, but can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore some of their texture.
* **Freeze:** Assembled but uncooked wontons can be frozen as described above.

## Conclusion

These Air Fryer Smoked Salmon Wontons are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and a healthier alternative to traditional fried wontons. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy these crispy, savory delights!