Air Fryer Salmon

The aroma of perfectly seasoned salmon wafts through the kitchen as it emerges from the air fryer, golden and flaky. This Air Fryer Salmon recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish and results in juicy fillets that are equally delicious and healthy. The air fryer ensures the salmon cooks evenly while maintaining moisture and tenderness.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also great for meal prep, as the salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days and easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The salmon is crispy on the outside while remaining tender and moist inside.
• It cooks in just 8-10 minutes, making it super quick.
• The seasoning blend infuses a burst of flavor without overwhelming the fish.
• You can easily customize the spices to suit your taste preferences.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make delicious air fryer salmon:

For the Salmon

• 2 salmon fillets, 6 oz each
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, optional

For Serving

• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use skinless salmon fillets if preferred.
• Replace olive oil with avocado oil.
• Garlic powder can be swapped with fresh garlic.
• Adjust cayenne pepper based on spice tolerance.

How to Make It

Get ready for a quick and flavorful dinner!

1. Pat dry
   Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Mix seasoning
   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.

3. Preheat air fryer
   Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.

4. Air fry
   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.

5. Garnish and serve
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, salmon doesn’t reheat well after freezing.
Reheat: Microwave on low for 1-2 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to preheat the air fryer for optimal cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed.
• Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets.
• Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving to enhance its juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light Caesar salad for a refreshing side.
• Serve alongside quinoa for a protein-packed meal.
• Great with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.