Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Salmon Air Fryer Recipe
Craving a quick, crispy, and delicious seafood dinner? This Salmon Air Fryer Recipe whips up tender, flavorful salmon fillets in under 20 minutes—perfectly healthy, super easy, and downright satisfying.
Full Recipe Introduction
Imagine sinking your fork into flaky, moist salmon with just the right amount of char on the edges—no soggy bottoms here. Using an air fryer means we skip the extra oil and still get that crave-worthy crunch. I first dreamed up this Salmon Air Fryer Recipe one busy weeknight when my calendar was bursting and I needed something healthy but fuss-free. As a 50-year-old home cook with grown kids who never seem to slow down, I’ve learned that a recipe needs to be fast, nourishing, and just a little bit fancy—and this one checks all the boxes. Nutrition data from the USDA tells us wild-caught salmon packs about 260 calories, 20g protein, and a healthy dollop of Omega-3s per 6-ounce fillet—so you’re fueling your body without skimping on flavor. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or roasted veggies, and you’ve got a weeknight winner that’s both light and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• No oven needed—your air fryer does all the work.
• Ready in under 20 minutes, from fridge to table.
• Healthy seafood option: high protein, Omega-3 rich, low in carbs.
• Crispy skin and tender interior every time.
• Flexible seasoning—shake on spices you love.
• Perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinner guests.
• Easy cleanup—just a quick wipe of the basket.
• Kid-friendly flavors, yet adult-approved sophistication.
Ingredients
• 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin on or off as you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (sub avocado oil for higher smoke point)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky note)
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (finely grated)
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or dill, lemon wedges
Tips on choosing & prepping:
– Pick wild-caught salmon if you can for richer flavor.
– Pat fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
– If your fillets vary in thickness, trim to uniform size or note differing cook times.
Directions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. A preheated basket means even cooking and a crisp exterior.
2. While it warms up, brush each fillet with olive oil on both sides—think of it as a protective layer that locks in moisture.
3. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over all sides of the salmon. You’ll smell those aromatics right away—so inviting!
4. Place fillets skin-side down (if you left the skin on) in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. If your air fryer basket is tight, cook in two batches rather than crowding.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes. No flipping needed unless you like ultra-crispy edges—then give them a quick 30-second turn. Pro tip: use a digital thermometer to check for 145°F at the thickest part.
6. Once done, transfer fillets to a plate and let them rest for 2 minutes—this brief pause helps the juices redistribute for the most tender bite.
7. Garnish with parsley or dill, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and serve right away with your favorite sides.
Servings & Timing
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 2 minutes resting)
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
• Lemon-Dill Twist: Add 1 teaspoon dried dill and a squeeze of lemon juice before air frying.
• Honey-Sriracha Glaze: Brush with 1 tablespoon honey mixed with 1 teaspoon Sriracha in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Pesto Crust: Spread 1 tablespoon basil pesto on top before air frying for an herby finish.
• Citrus-Ginger Marinade: Marinate in 2 tablespoons orange juice, 1 teaspoon grated ginger for 15 minutes pre-cook.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: Swap paprika and garlic powder for 1 teaspoon everything bagel mix.
• Mediterranean Style: Top with chopped tomatoes, olives, and feta after cooking.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store cooled fillets in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: Warm salmon in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to revive crispness, or gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that texture.
Make-Ahead: Season fillets and refrigerate (covered) up to 12 hours ahead to deepen flavor.
Notes
• I learned while testing this recipe that flipping is optional—your choice if you like extra char.
• Thick, high-quality fish fillets cook a bit slower; thin cuts crisp up faster—adjust by a minute or two.
• For even cooking, let salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before seasoning.
• If you notice steam pooling in the basket, pat dry again and add a paper towel to soak up excess moisture (just don’t air fry with it inside!).
• Experiment with spice blends—cajun seasoning gives a nice kick, while za’atar offers Middle Eastern flair.
FAQs
Q: Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
A: Yes—add about 5 extra minutes at 380°F, flipping halfway, and check for 145°F internal temperature.
Q: What if my salmon sticks to the basket?
A: Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray or use perforated parchment liners made for air fryers.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely—no wheat or breading here, so it’s naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.
Q: Can I skip the olive oil?
A: You can, but a thin coating helps the seasoning stick and promotes crispiness.
Q: How do I know when it’s perfectly cooked?
A: Look for opaque salmon that flakes easily with a fork; 145°F internal is USDA-recommended.
Q: Can I use frozen-pressed salmon?
A: Pressed fillets work great—just pat very dry to prevent steaming in the air fryer.
Q: What sides pair best with this dish?
A: Roasted asparagus, air-fried Brussels sprouts, quinoa salad or garlic mashed cauliflower all complement nicely.
Conclusion
This Salmon Air Fryer Recipe proves that healthy, easy, and quick can all live together on one plate. With minimal hands-on time and big, bold flavors—plus a crisp exterior and tender inside—you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Give it a try tonight, and drop me a comment below to share your favorite seasoning twist or side dish pairing!
If you enjoyed this, you might also like my Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Shrimp or Crispy Air Fryer Veggies—check them out for more fuss-free weeknight inspiration.
Salmon Air Fryer Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each) skin on or off as you prefer
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil sub avocado oil for higher smoke point
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest finely grated
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or dill, lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. A preheated basket means even cooking and a crisp exterior.
- While the air fryer warms up, brush each fillet with olive oil on both sides—think of it as a protective layer that locks in moisture.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over all sides of the salmon.
- Place fillets skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes. No flipping needed unless you prefer extra crispiness.
- Once done, transfer fillets to a plate and let them rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with parsley or dill, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and serve warm with your favorite sides.
