There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and garlic—it brightens up any dish, especially salmon. As someone who loves quick, healthy meals, I’m always looking for ways to make weeknight dinners effortless without sacrificing flavor. That’s why this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon has become one of my go-to recipes. It’s ready in under 15 minutes, packed with zesty, savory notes, and perfectly flaky every time.
If you’ve ever hesitated about cooking fish at home, the air fryer is your best friend. It crisps the edges while keeping the inside tender and moist, and the lemon garlic marinade infuses the salmon with so much flavor. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep enthusiast, or just craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe is a winner.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Fresh salmon fillets: The star of the dish! Look for center-cut fillets with even thickness for even cooking. Skin-on or skinless both work, but I prefer skin-on for extra crispiness.
Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the salmon.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a robust, aromatic punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works, but fresh is best.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the salmon and ensures it doesn’t dry out in the air fryer.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. I like using coarse sea salt for better texture.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end adds freshness and a pop of color.
Ingredients List
- 2 (6-oz) salmon fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this helps the seasoning stick better. Place them in a shallow dish or on a plate.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Marinade
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until combined.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon
Brush the marinade generously over the salmon fillets, making sure both sides are well-coated. Let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it heat up for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Step 5: Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness (about 8 minutes for 1-inch fillets). Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once done, the salmon should flake easily with a fork. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcook: Salmon is best when slightly pink in the center. Check at the 8-minute mark.
- Even thickness: If fillets vary in thickness, tuck thinner parts under to prevent drying out.
- Marinate longer (optional): For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Use foil or parchment: For easier cleanup, line the air fryer basket with perforated parchment paper.
- Check for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw it completely in the fridge first and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
Can I use other fish?
Absolutely! This method works well with trout, cod, or sea bass—just adjust cooking time based on thickness.
Do I need to flip the salmon?
Not necessary! The air fryer’s circulation cooks it evenly without flipping.
What sides go well with this? Try roasted asparagus, quinoa, or a simple arugula salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious, flaky, and flavorful Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon—it’s a dish that’s as easy as it is impressive!