Air-Fried BBQ Salmon Pizza on Naan

Ok, let me explain how I got here!

Here’s a fail-proof recipe to satisfy your taste buds after a nice workout or long day. BBQ Salmon Pizza is a BANGIN recipe that also happens to be good for you!

Is BBQ Pizza with Salmon Healthy?

As with many things concerning food, the answer is “it depends” on the ingredients you choose! So let’s break down the core ingredients to understand how and why this could be good FOR us.

Center-Cut Wild Salmon

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Wild salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain functions.
• Protein: Center-cut salmon is the meatiest part of the fish and is an excellent source of high-quality protein that facilitates muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins and Minerals: It contains vitamins D and B12, and selenium, which supports immune functions and thyroid health.

Paprika seasoning

• Antioxidants: Paprika is rich in antioxidants, such as carotenoids, which help prevent oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin A: Salmon is a source of vitamin A, which helps vision, skin health, and immune functions.

Whole Wheat Naan Bread

• Fiber: Whole wheat naan is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain blood sugar levels.
• Complex Carbohydrates: Provides sustained energy. These are digested more slowly than simple carbs (like refined sugars).

Low-Sugar BBQ Sauce

• Reduced Sugar helps minimize added sugars, which can lead to unintended weight gain and other health issues when consumed too much sugar.
• Flavor with fewer calories: Opting for a reduced calorie and sugar version provides flavor without significantly impacting the calorie count.

Veggies (Asparagus and Red Onion)

• Asparagus
  • rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, and folate.
  • Fiber: Good source of dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
  • Antioxidants protect cells from damage.
• Red Onion:
  • Antioxidants, including quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.

Reduced-Fat Mozzarella

• Lower Fat Content: Reduced-fat mozzarella has less saturated fat compared to regular mozzarella, which is more recommended for heart health.
• Calcium and Protein: despite being a small amount, mozzarella still provides a good amount of calcium for bone health and protein for muscle maintenance.

How to make BBQ Salmon Pizza

Let’s get into it and find out how to make salmon pizza. You’ll need only 20 minutes for this baked salmon pizza recipe! It’s a very simple prep, and easy to customize to your tastes.

You will need salmon, wheat naan bread, low-sodium BBQ sauce, reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, and veggies like mushrooms, red onions, bell peppers, or even asparagus.

If you are not making this pizza using leftover ingredients, then you’ll need to decide between using canned salmon and fresh salmon.  Canned salmon is more convenient, but it may not be as ideal for those who do not appreciate a strong fish flavor.   If you are sensitive to that, then I recommend using fresh or baked salmon.

Set air-fryer or oven to 425F.  I use the Breville the Joule® Oven Air Fryer Pro.

Season salmon with paprika, sea salt, and pepper.  Follow these steps to make grilled salmon.

Make sure the salmon filet is boneless.

When the salmon is done, take it out of the oven and set aside to cool, so you can easily flake it with a fork.

You can use store-bought sauce or make your own reduced sugar and calorie sauce such as this Japanese BBQ sauce that pairs beautifully with this dish!

Spread BBQ sauce on the naan bread.

Add mozzarella as the base, reserving some for the topping.

Then add the salmon along with your choice of veggies such as asparagus.

Sprinkle a bit more cheese on top then add red onions.

Place in the air-fryer for 10 minutes or oven for 12 – 15 minutes.  Note: carefully monitor to ensure it is not burning after 8 minutes as some ovens and air-fryers cook faster than others.

Serve and enjoy immediately while still warm.

Most important step…remember to FOLD the pizza before you enjoy it!

How to customize BBQ Salmon Pizza

You can also change this recipe, and remove or add the ingredients you prefer! Here are some salmon pizza ideas that you can try for yourself.

Instead of using baked salmon, you can make a smoked salmon pizza; you can also add any seasonal vegetables, such as tomatoes, spinach or other. Another great addition to consider is avocado on pizza. Instead of naan bread, experiment with flatbread, pita or even tortillas for quick crust solutions!

You can use pizza crusts, flat bread or naan like me. I liked this combination from the recipe the most.

Let me know in the comments below if you tried this BBQ salmon pizza recipe and how you like it.