I love meals that strike the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity, and this air fryer salmon with garlic and lemon is one of my go-to favorites. It’s light yet satisfying, and the citrusy kick paired with garlicky goodness makes every bite fresh and irresistible. The best part? It comes together in less than 15 minutes, making it an easy choice for busy weeknights when I still want something wholesome and delicious.
What makes this recipe so special to me is how versatile it is. Whether I serve it with a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or a bowl of fluffy rice, it always feels like a complete meal without much effort. Plus, cooking salmon in the air fryer gives it that beautifully tender center and perfectly crisp edges every single time—no need to babysit the stove or heat up the oven.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Salmon fillets: Fresh or thawed salmon is best for this recipe. I like to choose fillets with the skin on because it helps lock in moisture during cooking and gives the salmon a richer flavor. Look for bright, firm flesh with a mild scent—it’s a sign of freshness.
Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil not only keeps the salmon from sticking in the air fryer but also enhances its natural richness. I prefer extra-virgin olive oil for its smooth, slightly peppery notes.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key here. It infuses the salmon with a bold aroma and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon. Garlic powder can work in a pinch, but nothing beats the real thing.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the entire dish. The acidity cuts through the salmon’s richness, balancing every bite. I like to add a few lemon slices while cooking for an extra zesty punch.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings, but they’re essential. A sprinkle of salt enhances the salmon’s natural flavor, while freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick.
Fresh parsley (optional): For a final touch, a sprinkle of fresh parsley brings color and a hint of herbal freshness that ties everything together.
Ingredients List
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra slices for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic and Lemon
Step 1: Prep the salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step helps the seasoning stick better and ensures the salmon crisps nicely in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season generously
Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil, then rub in the minced garlic. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated with flavor.
Step 3: Air fry to perfection
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7–9 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon should be tender and flake easily with a fork.
Step 4: Garnish and serve
Once cooked, remove the salmon carefully and top with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—this ensures even cooking.
- If your fillets are very thick, add 1–2 extra minutes of cook time.
- For crispier edges, lightly spray the salmon with cooking oil before air frying.
- Always check doneness with a fork—the salmon should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Add extra flavor by marinating the salmon in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 20 minutes before cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it overnight in the fridge first, then follow the recipe as written. Cooking straight from frozen can lead to uneven results.
What sides go well with this salmon?
This recipe pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, garlic butter green beans, quinoa, rice, or a simple garden salad.
Can I use another type of fish?
Absolutely. Cod, halibut, or trout also work well with this method, though cook times may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer for a few minutes or enjoy it cold on a salad.
Can I make it dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes—this recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, so it’s a great choice for many dietary preferences.