Introduction

Air fryer salmon is a quick and flavorful way to prepare a healthy dinner. This recipe yields tender, flaky fillets with a deliciously seasoned crust in just minutes. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal!

Ingredients

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 spice)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat 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 thickness, until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

For extra crisp skin, pat the skin side thoroughly dry before seasoning.
Swap cayenne pepper for smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor.
Use fresh herbs like dill or thyme instead of parsley for a different aroma.
Check salmon for doneness early if your fillets are thin to prevent overcooking.

Storage

Store leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven at a low temperature to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by a few minutes and ensure the salmon is cooked through. It’s best to thaw it slightly for more even cooking if time allows.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 122 reviews

A simple and delicious Air Fryer Salmon recipe that delivers perfectly cooked, flaky, and flavorful salmon fillets with a blend of spices and a hint of lemon. This quick and healthy meal is ready in under 20 minutes and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

Seasoning Mix

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 spice)

Additional

1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Dry the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures even cooking.
Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if desired. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both salmon fillets. Drizzle lemon juice on top to add brightness and enhance flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes. This step ensures the salmon starts cooking right away when placed inside.
Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is opaque, flaky, and cooked through.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Perfect accompaniments include rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.

Notes

Check salmon thickness to adjust cooking time: thinner fillets may need closer to 8 minutes, thicker ones up to 10 minutes.
For a spicier kick, increase cayenne pepper to ½ tsp or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Use skin-on salmon for better texture; skin helps hold the fillet together during cooking.
If you don’t have an air fryer, salmon can be baked at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes.
Let cooked salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving to retain juices and flavor.

Keywords: air fryer salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, quick dinner, low fat seafood