If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than this Air Fryer Salmon. In under 15 minutes, you can have perfectly cooked salmon that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all without the need for deep frying. This simple recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s packed with flavor, nutritious, and versatile enough to pair with various side dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick & Easy: This recipe takes less than 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
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Healthy & Flavorful: Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients, salmon is great for heart and brain health.
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Perfect Texture: The air fryer gives the salmon a crispy exterior while locking in moisture, keeping it flaky and tender.
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Versatile: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to quinoa, making it easy to incorporate into any meal plan.
Ingredients
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2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp onion powder
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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Fresh parsley (for garnish)
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Lemon wedges (for serving)
Optional Ingredients:
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Honey, soy sauce, Cajun seasoning, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, fresh dill (for extra flavor variations)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
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Air fryer
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Mixing bowl
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Measuring spoons
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Tongs
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Paper towels
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Knife
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Basting brush (for optional glazes)
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick better.
Step 2:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.
Step 3:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 4:
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Step 5:
Garnish the salmon with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Pair with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Helpful Tips
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Dry the salmon: Patting the fillets dry removes excess moisture, ensuring a crispier texture.
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Preheat the air fryer: Preheating the air fryer helps the salmon cook more evenly and crisply.
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Leave space between fillets: Ensure there’s enough room around each fillet for the air to circulate for optimal crispiness.
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Cooking skin-side down: The skin protects the salmon and adds flavor while crisping up nicely in the air fryer.
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Watch for doneness: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.
How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon
My favorite way to serve this salmon is with a side of roasted vegetables and quinoa. The light, healthy flavors balance beautifully with the crispy salmon. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.
For a lighter meal, flake the salmon and serve it in a salad with leafy greens, avocado, and a simple vinaigrette. Or, make a wrap with the salmon, fresh veggies, and a light dressing for a delicious, portable lunch.
For a more comforting option, pair it with mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus. The creamy potatoes complement the crispy salmon perfectly. Add a little garlic butter on top for extra richness.
How to Store
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Storage: Place leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore its crispiness.
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Freezing: You can freeze the salmon for up to 2 months. Store it in a freezer-safe bag, and when you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat using the air fryer to maintain texture.
FAQs
Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes! You can cook frozen salmon without thawing. Just increase the cooking time by 3-5 minutes, and check for doneness by ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush the salmon with a thin layer of oil. Cooking skin-side down also helps prevent sticking.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. If the center is still slightly translucent, cook for an additional minute.
Can I cook salmon with the skin on?
Yes! Cooking salmon with the skin on helps retain moisture and adds flavor. The skin crisps up in the air fryer and can be eaten or easily removed afterward.
What is the best temperature to cook salmon in the air fryer?
375°F (190°C) is the ideal temperature for air-frying salmon, as it allows the salmon to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior.
Do I need to flip the salmon while cooking in the air fryer?
No, flipping is not necessary. Cooking the salmon skin-side down ensures even cooking and helps prevent the fillet from breaking apart.
Can I marinate the salmon before cooking?
Yes! Marinating the salmon for 15-30 minutes enhances the flavor. Just be sure to pat it dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture that may prevent the seasoning from sticking.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With just a few simple ingredients and under 15 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables, in a salad, or paired with mashed potatoes, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a new favorite way to cook salmon!
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Air Fryer Salmon
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2servings
Description
This Air Fryer Salmon recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that comes together in just 15 minutes! With a crispy outside and tender, flaky inside, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this simple, easy-to-make dish is a must-try for seafood lovers!
Ingredients
2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better.
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Drizzle with lemon juice.
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Pat the salmon dry to help it crisp up and let the seasoning adhere better.
Preheat the air fryer to ensure an even cook and better texture.
Space the fillets apart to ensure even airflow and crispiness.
Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork or using a thermometer. Salmon is done at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serve immediately for the best texture, or garnish with extra lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Optional Ingredients:
Honey – Adds a slight sweetness and caramelization when brushed on top.
Soy sauce – For a rich umami flavor, especially when mixed with garlic and ginger.
Cajun seasoning – For a spicy kick and smoky flavor.
Parmesan cheese – Creates a crispy, cheesy crust when sprinkled on top before cooking.
Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy, zesty flavor.
Fresh dill – Perfect for pairing with salmon, offering a light, refreshing taste.
How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon:
Classic Combo: Serve with roasted vegetables and quinoa for a light, healthy meal. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Lunch Option: Flake the salmon and use it in salads or wraps. Pair with avocado, leafy greens, and a simple vinaigrette.
Comforting Dish: Pair with mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus. Add a dollop of garlic butter for richness.
How to Store:
Refrigerate: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to retain crispiness.
Freeze: Freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
FAQ:
Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes! You can cook frozen salmon in the air fryer. Increase the cooking time by 3-5 minutes, and check for doneness by ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush the salmon with a thin layer of oil before placing it in the basket. Cooking skin-side down also helps prevent sticking.
How do I know when salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. If it’s still slightly translucent in the center, let it cook for another minute.
Can I marinate the salmon before cooking?
Yes! Marinating salmon for 15-30 minutes enhances the flavor. Be sure to pat it dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture.
Can I cook salmon with the skin on?
Yes! Cooking salmon with the skin on helps keep it moist and flavorful. The skin crisps up in the air fryer and can be eaten or easily removed after cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
