Air Fryer Salmon

Air fryer salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that delivers perfectly cooked, flaky fish in minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple yet versatile, offering a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

How To Make Air Fryer Salmon

1. Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
2. Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
3. Cook: Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) or the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Remove and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

You Must Know

• Don’t Overcook: Check for doneness at 7 minutes to avoid dry salmon. The fish should be opaque and flake easily.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes.
• Allergy Info: Ensure salmon is fresh and check seasonings for allergens if needed.

Topping Variations

• Herb Crust: Mix fresh dill, parsley, and lemon zest with olive oil and spread on top before cooking.
• Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha after cooking.
• Asian-Inspired: Brush with a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil before air frying.
• Garlic Butter: Top with melted butter and minced garlic after cooking for richness.

Make It A Meal

• Light Lunch: Serve with a mixed green salad and a lemon vinaigrette.
• Dinner Plate: Pair with roasted asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes.
• Grain Bowl: Add to a bowl with quinoa, avocado, and a tahini drizzle.

Pro Tips

• Room Temperature: Let salmon sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking for even results.
• Parchment Paper: Use air fryer-safe parchment for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Check Thickness: Thicker fillets may need 1-2 extra minutes; thinner ones may cook faster.
• Skin-On Option: Cooking skin-side down keeps the fish moist and makes the skin crispy.

Recipe FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, thaw completely in the fridge overnight and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

Q: Why is my salmon dry?
A: Overcooking is the likely cause. Check at 7 minutes and use a thermometer to ensure 145°F internal temperature.

Q: Can I cook salmon without oil?
A: Yes, but a light brush of oil enhances flavor and prevents sticking. Use parchment if skipping oil.

Q: Can I make this in the oven?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness.

Print

Air Fryer Salmon

Print Recipe

Whip up perfectly cooked salmon in your air fryer with this easy recipe. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s a great option for a quick, healthy dinner.

• Author: Isabel
• Prep Time: 5 min
• Cook Time: 10 min
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
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• 4 salmon fillets (4-5 oz each), skin-on.
• 1 tbsp olive oil.
• 1 tsp lemon pepper (or 1/2 tsp black pepper and 1 tsp lemon zest).
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper.
• Nonstick cooking spray.
• Lemon wedges for serving.

Instructions

1. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

2. Put salmon on a plate, skin down. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle on lemon pepper, salt, and pepper.

3. Place salmon in the basket, not touching. You can put it skin up or down. Add lemon slices under each piece if you like.

4. Air fry at 350°F for about 8 minutes. It’s done when it hits 135-140°F inside. Cook longer if you want it more well-done.

5. Plate the salmon and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over top.

Notes

1. You can preheat the air fryer if your manual says to, but it’s not required.
2. Leftover salmon keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days.