Air Fryer Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that delivers perfectly cooked, flaky salmon fillets with a crispy exterior in minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or a protein-packed meal, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste and nutrition. It’s a foolproof way to get delicious salmon every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon filletsolive oilgarlic powderpaprikaonion powdersaltblack pepperlemon wedges (for serving)fresh herbs like parsley or dill (optional)

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.

Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil.

In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon.

Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Remove and serve with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 7-10 minutesTotal time: 12-15 minutes

Variations

Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the seasoning mix for a sweet glaze.

Top with a spoonful of pesto or chimichurri after cooking.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve with soy sauce for an Asian twist.

Use Cajun or lemon pepper seasoning for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.Avoid microwaving to preserve the crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Yes, add 2-4 extra minutes to the cooking time and season after a few minutes of cooking.

Do I need to flip the salmon in the air fryer?

No, cooking it skin-side down is sufficient and helps maintain moisture.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork. Internal temp should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I use skinless salmon?

Yes, but be extra gentle when removing it from the air fryer to avoid breaking.

Can I marinate the salmon first?

Absolutely, just pat it dry before air frying to ensure a crispy finish.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Salmon is an easy, healthy option that’s bursting with flavor and ready in minutes. Whether you’re a salmon enthusiast or a beginner, this method delivers consistent results with minimal effort. Perfect for any meal, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your weekly rotation.

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