I love making Air Fryer Salmon when I want a quick, healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. The air fryer gives the salmon a perfectly crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender and flaky.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I appreciate how fast and foolproof this recipe is. I can have perfectly cooked salmon on the table in under 15 minutes. The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a lightly crisp surface, and I enjoy how easy it is to customize the seasoning. It’s one of my favorite go-to dinners when I want something nutritious and satisfying without much effort.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or dill
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Directions
I start by preheating the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
I pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush them lightly with olive oil. I season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley or dill, salt, and black pepper.
I place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down, making sure they are not overcrowded.
I cook for 7–9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
I carefully remove the salmon from the basket and serve it immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Servings and Timing
I find this recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 7–9 minutes
Total time: about 15 minutes
Variations
I sometimes brush the salmon with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and savory glaze. When I want extra heat, I sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. I also enjoy topping it with fresh herbs or a spoonful of pesto before serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat it gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes or in the microwave on low power. I can also flake it cold into salads or wraps.
FAQs
Do I need to flip the salmon in the air fryer?
No, I cook it skin-side down and don’t need to flip it.
Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes, I can cook it from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time and seasoning after it begins to thaw.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
I check that it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I marinate the salmon beforehand?
Yes, I sometimes marinate it for 15–30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.
What sides pair well with air fryer salmon?
I enjoy serving it with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
I love how Air Fryer Salmon delivers perfectly cooked fish with minimal time and effort. The crisp exterior and tender interior make it a reliable and delicious meal option. It’s one of my favorite recipes when I want something quick, healthy, and full of flavor.
Print
Air Fryer Salmon
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7–9 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Air Fryer Salmon is a quick and healthy meal featuring perfectly crisp edges and a tender, flaky center, ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or dill
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley or dill, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook for 7–9 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Carefully remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Notes
- Brush with a honey and Dijon mustard mixture for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Top with fresh herbs or pesto before serving for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes or microwave on low power.
- Flake cold leftovers into salads or wraps.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
