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Easy Air Fryer Salmon

Easy Air Fryer Salmon

Easy Air Fryer Salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option that requires minimal ingredients and time, perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers tender, flaky salmon with crispy skin, enhanced by simple seasoning and customizable flavors.

  • Total Time: 12 to 14 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets with skin on (fresh or thawed)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or thyme for garnish

Variations (Optional)

  • Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
  • Soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for Asian-inspired marinade
  • Mix of fresh parsley, thyme, and lemon zest for herb-crusted finish
  • Honey and mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze
  • Omission of salt, substituted with extra lemon and herbs for low sodium

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the fillets.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 to 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy crust.
  3. Cook the Salmon: Place salmon fillets skin side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 7 to 9 minutes based on thickness, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  4. Add Lemon Juice and Serve: Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon for brightness. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs before serving for added color and freshness.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave space between fillets for even air circulation.
  • Cooking with skin on locks in moisture and adds flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure salmon reaches 145°F for perfect doneness.
  • Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness or if cooking from frozen.
  • Allow salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.
  • Reheat gently in air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to maintain texture and moisture; avoid microwaving.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 to 9 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (approx. 4 oz)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: air fryer salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy dinner, quick salmon, gluten free salmon, omega-3 recipe