I love when a recipe feels both comforting and nourishing at the same time. For me, this air fryer salmon with spinach is one of those meals that ticks all the boxes—simple, quick, and deeply satisfying. It’s a dish I often turn to on busy weeknights because it requires very little effort but delivers restaurant-level flavor. Plus, the air fryer does most of the heavy lifting, leaving me more time to relax while dinner practically cooks itself.
Another reason I adore this recipe is how versatile it is. Salmon has a natural richness that pairs so beautifully with the freshness of spinach, and when seasoned just right, you get a balance of buttery, savory, and slightly earthy notes in every bite. Whether you’re making this for yourself, your family, or even as a casual date-night dinner, it’s a dish that always looks and tastes like you put in much more effort than you actually did.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Salmon fillets: Salmon is the star of this dish. Rich in omega-3s, it’s not only incredibly healthy but also wonderfully flavorful. The air fryer gives the salmon a perfectly crisped outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Opt for fresh fillets if you can, but frozen works too—just thaw them fully before cooking.
Fresh spinach: Spinach adds a vibrant green element that balances the richness of the salmon. It wilts down beautifully and soaks up all the flavors from the seasoning and salmon drippings, creating a delicious bed for your fish.
Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the salmon crisp up nicely in the air fryer and adds a subtle fruity note to the dish. It also prevents the spinach from drying out and enhances its flavor.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder brings a mellow, savory kick that complements the salmon’s natural flavors without overpowering them. It also blends evenly over the fillets, making it ideal for quick seasoning.
Paprika: Paprika gives a gentle smokiness and a pop of color that makes the salmon look extra appetizing. It’s not too spicy but adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
Salt and black pepper: These two essentials bring out the best in all the ingredients, enhancing natural flavors and ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.
Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end brightens the whole dish. It cuts through the richness of the salmon and lifts the earthy flavor of the spinach, tying everything together.
Ingredients List
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon & Spinach
Step 1: Prepare the salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures the fish crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season generously
Brush the salmon lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the fillets. Make sure to coat all sides for the best flavor.
Step 3: Arrange in the air fryer
Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down. Arrange the spinach around the salmon, drizzling it with the remaining olive oil so it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Cook to perfection
Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have a golden crust, while the spinach will be tender and slightly wilted.
Step 5: Finish and serve
Transfer the salmon and spinach to a plate, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; proper air circulation is key for even cooking.
- Use skin-on salmon if possible—it helps keep the fish moist and flavorful.
- If you prefer extra crispy salmon, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne on the spinach before air frying.
- Pair with a simple side like roasted potatoes, quinoa, or even rice to make it a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and air frying.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating isn’t always required, but I recommend it for more consistent cooking and crispier salmon.
What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula can work as substitutes, though cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I add more seasonings?
Absolutely! Try adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs, chili powder, or even a honey drizzle before cooking for a twist.