As someone who loves finding ways to make weeknight dinners quick, healthy, and delicious, air fryer salmon has become one of my go-to recipes. It’s incredibly simple, and the results never disappoint. The air fryer gives the salmon a beautifully crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky. Plus, it’s a hands-off process—perfect for busy nights when multitasking is a must.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you prefer a classic lemon-dill seasoning or want to spice things up with a Cajun rub, this method works perfectly every time. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this irresistible dish at home.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor. Skin-on fillets are ideal because they help keep the fish moist during cooking, but skinless works too if that’s your preference.
Olive oil: A light drizzle of olive oil ensures the salmon doesn’t stick to the air fryer basket and helps achieve that beautiful, crispy exterior.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the seasoning without overpowering the delicate flavor of the salmon.
Paprika: This spice not only adds a hint of smokiness but also gives the salmon a gorgeous golden color.
Salt and pepper: These pantry staples bring out the natural flavor of the fish. Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best results.
Fresh dill or parsley (optional): Garnishing the cooked salmon with fresh herbs adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients List
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispy edges on the salmon.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the fillets, and rub it in to coat evenly. Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the salmon, making sure the seasoning is distributed evenly.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Place the fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on salmon) in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching to allow proper airflow. Air fry at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Thicker fillets may need up to 10 minutes, while thinner ones may only require 6-7 minutes. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice and Garnish
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh dill or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Choose the right salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible—it’s flavorful and packed with nutrients. Farm-raised salmon works well too but has a milder flavor.
- Don’t skip preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures the salmon cooks evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
- Avoid overcrowding: Make sure the fillets have space between them in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the salmon.
- Experiment with flavors: This recipe is a great base, but you can easily switch things up. Try a teriyaki glaze, honey mustard, or Cajun seasoning for a different twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure even seasoning and proper cooking time.
2. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! You can bake the salmon in an oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Place leftover salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to avoid overcooking.
4. Can I cook vegetables with the salmon in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Add veggies like asparagus or zucchini to the basket alongside the salmon. Just make sure to cut them into small, even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
5. What side dishes pair well with air fryer salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or a refreshing cucumber salad. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of mixed greens.