If you crave perfectly cooked salmon that’s juicy inside and deliciously crisp on the edges—all without turning on your oven—Air Fryer Salmon is about to become your new weeknight hero! In just 10 minutes, you can create restaurant-worthy salmon with minimal fuss, using simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ten-Minute Magic: Dinner is on your table faster than you ever thought possible, thanks to the air fryer’s speedy cooking.
- Juicy & Tender Every Time: The air fryer locks in moisture, so your salmon comes out flaky and perfectly cooked—not dry or overdone.
- No-Fuss Ingredients: Just salmon, pantry spices, and a splash of olive oil—nothing fancy, but huge flavor!
- Easy Clean Up: Forget scrubbing pans; the air fryer keeps things neat and tidy, making this meal perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of my favorite things about Air Fryer Salmon is just how few ingredients you need—yet each one makes a big impact. These basic kitchen staples work together to let the salmon shine, enhancing every delicious bite with color, aroma, and taste.
- Salmon Fillets: Choose fillets that are similar in size so they cook evenly. Skin-on or skinless both work—go with what you love!
- Olive Oil: Helps keep the salmon moist and encourages that beautiful, golden crust in the air fryer.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses aromatic depth and just the right amount of savory flavor without overwhelming the fish.
- Paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and a lovely hint of color to the final dish.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavor of the salmon—don’t be shy here.
- Black Pepper: A must for a subtle heat and earthy balance.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeezing fresh lemon on right before serving brightens up every forkful.
- Tartar Sauce: Optional, but it’s a classic partner for salmon and makes an irresistible dip.
Variations
One of the joys of making Air Fryer Salmon at home is how easy it is to put your own spin on things. No matter your flavor mood or dietary need, you’ve got options—don’t hesitate to play around or use what you have on hand!
- Honey Garlic Glaze: Brush the salmon with a quick mix of honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic before cooking for a sweet-savory finish.
- Spicy Cajun: Swap the paprika and garlic powder for a zesty Cajun seasoning blend if you want bolder, spicier flavor.
- Lemon Herb: Add chopped fresh dill or parsley, plus extra lemon zest, for a bright, herby spin that tastes like summer.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use reduced-salt seasonings and skip the salt altogether for a heart-healthy twist that still delivers big on taste.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial for even cooking and that gorgeous crisp on your salmon! It gives you just enough time to season the fish and gather your serving platters or side dishes.
Step 2: Season the Salmon Fillets
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels (this helps them crisp beautifully). Drizzle or brush each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. I like to massage the seasoning in gently so every inch is coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry for Perfect Results
Arrange the fillets in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure there’s a little space around each piece for the hot air to circulate. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, depending on thickness—check for flakiness with a fork, and add an extra minute or two if needed. The fish should be opaque and tender, with those irresistible caramelized edges.
Step 4: Serve and Savor
Use a spatula to gently lift the Air Fryer Salmon onto plates. Add a squeeze of lemon, a dollop of tartar sauce, and your favorite sides. Dinner is ready to impress—no one will believe how little effort it took!
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Salmon
- Uniform Thickness Matters: Salmon fillets that are the same size cook evenly, so hand-pick them from the seafood counter if you can.
- Don’t Crowd the Basket: Give each fillet some space in the air fryer so the hot air can crisp up every side—this is key for that irresistible texture.
- Test for Doneness Early: Air fryers can vary, and salmon cooks fast—check at the 7-minute mark with a fork and return to the fryer for another minute only if necessary.
- Dry Before Oiling: Patting the fillets dry before brushing with olive oil is a trick for maximum color and flavor on the crust.
How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon
Garnishes
A flourish of fresh lemon wedges is truly all you need with Air Fryer Salmon, but a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill transforms the plate into a real showstopper. Cracked black pepper or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top highlights each bite’s natural beauty.
Side Dishes
This salmon is seriously versatile—pair it with roasted green beans (my personal favorite!), a crisp salad, steamed asparagus, or fluffy rice pilaf. Even a simple baked potato makes a cozy weeknight meal. The mild, savory flavors complement just about anything you love.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, flake the salmon and serve it over a grain bowl with roasted veggies, or on toasted bread with avocado for a nourishing lunch. You can even tuck cooled leftovers into a fresh green salad or pasta—Air Fryer Salmon is just as tasty chilled as it is hot!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have extra, store your salmon fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They stay moist and flavorful, making them perfect for meal prepping and speedy lunches later in the week.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cooked salmon cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil. It’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving.
Reheating
Reheat your Air Fryer Salmon gently in the air fryer (set to 350°F for a few minutes) or in the microwave in short bursts. You just want to warm it through—be careful not to overcook so it stays tender and perfect.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw your salmon fillets in the fridge and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying. This ensures even cooking and that crisp, golden crust Air Fryer Salmon is known for.
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How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. If you use an instant-read thermometer, the thickest part should register 125–130°F for medium moistness, but feel free to cook longer if you prefer it more well done.
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Do I need to flip the salmon in the air fryer?
No flipping is required! The air fryer circulates hot air all around the fillets, allowing both sides to cook and crisp up perfectly without any fuss.
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Can I make this Air Fryer Salmon without oil?
You can skip the olive oil if you like, but a little oil helps keep the salmon moist and gives it that gorgeous outer crust. If you’re oil-free, just make sure the basket is nonstick or lined to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope this Air Fryer Salmon recipe brings a fresh, easy spark to your weeknight dinners. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortless and delicious salmon can be, with just the push of a button. Enjoy every flake and don’t forget to share it with someone you love!
Print
Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Air Frying
- Method: Air Frying
Description
Delicious and easy Air Fryer Salmon recipe that results in perfectly cooked fillets with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Seasoned with a blend of spices and served with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Tartar sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- Season the salmon: Rub each fillet with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook in the air fryer: Place the salmon in the air fryer and air fry for 7-9 minutes, adjusting for thickness. Check for doneness with a fork.
- Serve: Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
Notes
- Storage: Air fried salmon can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before use.
- Equipment: Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer recommended.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 276 kcal
- Sugar: 0.05g
- Sodium: 366mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 94mg
