why make this recipe
Air fryer salmon cooks fast and stays juicy. It uses little oil and makes a nice crust. You get a healthy meal in minutes. If you like quick air fryer meals, check this air fryer chicken size guide for more air fryer tips.
introduction
This recipe is simple and uses basic spices. It works for busy weeknights or a quick dinner. You can change the spice level and serve it with rice or salad.
how to make Air Fryer Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil and spices (garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne if using).
- Rub evenly over both sides of the salmon and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Place seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes until flaky and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
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), 1 tbsp lemon juice, Fresh parsley (for garnish), Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions :
Pat the salmon fillets dry to remove excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil and spices (garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne if using). Rub evenly over both sides of the salmon and drizzle with lemon juice. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Place seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes until flaky and cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
how to serve Air Fryer Salmon
Serve the salmon hot. Add lemon wedges and sprinkle fresh parsley. Try it with steamed vegetables, a green salad, or rice. For a full plate, add a side of roasted potatoes or quinoa.
how to store Air Fryer Salmon
Cool the salmon to room temperature within two hours. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 2–3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–5 minutes.
tips to make Air Fryer Salmon
- Pat salmon dry so the spices stick and the surface browns.
- Do not overcrowd the basket; give fillets space to cook evenly.
- Check doneness at 8 minutes for thinner fillets.
- Use a light oil spray if you want less oil.
- For skin crisp, cook skin-side down longer. For more air fryer ideas, see this air fryer chicken quick guide.
variation (if any)
- Maple glaze: mix maple syrup and mustard, brush in the last 2 minutes.
- Herb crust: add chopped dill and basil to the spice rub.
- Spicy: add more cayenne or a pinch of chili flakes.
FAQs
Q: How do I know when salmon is done?
A: The flesh should flake easily with a fork and be opaque. You can use a meat thermometer; 145°F (63°C) is the USDA recommendation.
Q: Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
A: Yes. Increase time to about 12–15 minutes and check for doneness. It helps to thaw slightly and pat dry first.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, if your air fryer has space. Cook in a single layer and avoid overlap. You may need more time.
Q: Can I use skinless fillets?
A: Yes. Cook the same way but check earlier for doneness.
Q: What sides go best?
A: Simple sides like steamed broccoli, rice, or a fresh salad work well.
Conclusion
For another quick air fryer salmon idea, see this helpful recipe: Air Fryer Salmon {UNDER 10 MINS} – Feel Good Foodie.
Print
Air Fryer Salmon
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and healthy air fryer salmon recipe that cooks in minutes while staying juicy and flavorful.
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)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil and spices (garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne if using).
- Rub evenly over both sides of the salmon and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Place seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes until flaky and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
For extra flavor, try a maple glaze or an herb crust. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: air fryer, salmon, healthy recipes, quick dinner, seafood