Dinner Ideas

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Salmon is one of those rare ingredients that hits the sweet spot between gourmet and accessible. When cooked right, it’s buttery, flavorful, and packed with health benefits. And with an air fryer? You can make perfect salmon in under 15 minutes with minimal effort and cleanup. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—every time.

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s foolproof. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your partner, or a whole family, air fryer salmon delivers consistently tender and flaky results. No splattering oil. No fishy oven smells. Just a quick seasoning rub, a short cook time, and you’re done.

This is a must-try dish because it’s ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or even special occasions when you’re short on time but still want something impressive and healthy. High in omega-3s, protein, and essential nutrients—salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, and this method locks in everything good while keeping it simple.

Prep and Cooking Details

  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 2
  • Calories: ~380 kcal per serving (depends on size of salmon and oil used)

Ingredients

Main:

  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika or smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional for brightness)

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh lemon wedges
  • Chopped parsley or dill
  • Drizzle of honey or a dollop of herb yogurt sauce

Direction:

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick and gives you a better sear.
  2. Brush both sides lightly with oil.

Step 2: Season Generously

  1. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl.
  2. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the top of each fillet. Add lemon zest if using.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes.
  2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching.
  3. Cook for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness:
    • For 1-inch thick fillets, cook 8–9 minutes.
    • Thinner fillets might only need 6–7 minutes.
    • Check doneness with a fork or thermometer (internal temp should be 125–130°F for medium).

Step 4: Serve Immediately

  1. Plate the salmon with a fresh squeeze of lemon.
  2. Add your favorite sides and garnishes.

Tips and Variations

Tips:

  • No need to flip the salmon during air frying—cooking skin-side down ensures crispy skin and juicy flesh.
  • For easy cleanup, use parchment paper or an air fryer liner (only if it’s safe at high temps).
  • Don’t overcook! Salmon continues to cook slightly after removal.

Variations:

  • Sweet & Spicy: Add a drizzle of honey + a pinch of cayenne before cooking.
  • Asian-Inspired: Use a soy sauce + sesame oil + ginger marinade.
  • Lemon Dill: Add fresh dill and lemon slices before air frying.
  • Maple Mustard Glaze: Mix 1 tbsp maple syrup and 1 tsp Dijon mustard and brush on top before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over a bed of quinoa or wild rice with steamed veggies.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad with vinaigrette.
  • Top with a dollop of tzatziki or herbed yogurt for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Flake the salmon and use in wraps, tacos, or grain bowls for meal prep.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re an air fryer pro or a total newbie, this Air Fryer Salmon is the definition of quick, healthy, and delicious. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make once and then keep making again and again—because it never fails. Ideal for busy nights, date nights, or meal prep Sundays, this dish proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Give it a try, and you’ll wonder how you ever cooked salmon any other way.

❓ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it completely first and pat it dry. Cooking from frozen is possible but may yield less ideal texture.

Q2: How do I know when salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center. Internal temp should be 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium, 145°F (63°C) if you prefer it well-done.

Q3: Can I cook skin-on salmon in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Cook it skin-side down—the air fryer will make the skin crispy and flavorful.

Q4: What’s the best air fryer for this recipe?
Any air fryer will work. Basket-style models are ideal for crispiness. Just ensure your salmon fillets fit without overcrowding.

Q5: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein. Great for keto or low-carb diets.

Q6: How long does cooked salmon last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or enjoy cold on a salad.