Cooking salmon has always been a personal joy for me. There’s something about its rich, buttery texture and delicate flavor that makes even a simple meal feel luxurious. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless ways to prepare it, but using an air fryer has truly transformed how I approach salmon at home. The ease, speed, and perfect crispiness it delivers make it my go-to method on busy weeknights or when I want a hassle-free dinner that feels special.
Pairing salmon with dill brings that fresh, slightly grassy note that elevates its natural taste without overpowering it. I love how the fragrant dill lightly clings to the fish, complementing its richness while keeping the recipe light and healthy. In this recipe, you’ll get a wonderfully flaky salmon fillet with just the right amount of seasoning and aroma, all prepared in under 20 minutes, which makes it ideal for anyone craving a quick, satisfying, and elegant dish.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Salmon Fillets:
Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this recipe. Opt for skin-on fillets for added crispiness and flavor, or skinless if you prefer a softer texture. Make sure the salmon is fresh, firm, and has a bright pink color to ensure the best taste and texture.
Fresh Dill:
Dill adds a refreshing herbal note that pairs beautifully with the natural richness of salmon. Use finely chopped fresh dill for the most vibrant flavor; dried dill can be used in a pinch but won’t be as aromatic.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil helps keep the salmon moist while giving it a subtle, fruity richness. It also aids in crisping the edges when cooked in the air fryer, giving the fish a beautiful golden finish.
Garlic:
Garlic adds depth and a savory kick that complements both the salmon and dill. Minced garlic works best as it spreads evenly across the fillet, infusing it with aromatic flavor without overwhelming the fish.
Lemon:
Fresh lemon juice brings brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the salmon. A light squeeze just before serving enhances flavor and adds a refreshing touch to the dish.
Salt and Pepper:
These basic seasonings are essential to enhance the natural taste of the salmon. Use them generously but taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
Ingredients List
- 2 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon with Dill
Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step ensures the seasoning sticks properly and the exterior crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
Season the Fillets
Rub each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Make sure the seasoning covers all sides evenly for a consistent flavor in every bite.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the salmon cooks evenly and develops a lightly crisp exterior.
Cook the Salmon
Place the fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 8–10 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
Add Lemon and Serve
Remove the salmon carefully from the air fryer and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately for a perfectly tender, flavorful dish.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use room-temperature salmon for even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking to maintain moist, flaky fillets.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste; dill pairs well with a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a thin slice of lemon on top of each fillet while cooking.
- Clean the air fryer basket immediately after cooking to prevent lingering odors and easy maintenance.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking for best results.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The salmon should be opaque in the center and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh dill gives a brighter, more aromatic flavor. Use about half the amount of dried dill.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Salmon with Dill?
It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Can I cook multiple fillets at once?
Yes, but make sure they don’t overlap in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed for even results.