why make this recipe
This recipe cooks fast. It gives you a healthy meal with bright lemon and garlic flavor. The salmon stays moist and the asparagus gets tender and a little crisp. It is easy and needs little cleanup.
introduction
Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon and Asparagus is a quick weeknight dish. The air fryer cooks salmon and asparagus together in one basket. You get a tasty meal in about 12 minutes. If you like lemon garlic fish, try this lemon garlic cod for another simple fish idea: lemon garlic parmesan cod recipe.
how to make Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
Preheat the air fryer and mix the sauce. Toss the asparagus in half the sauce so it gets flavor. Brush the salmon with the rest so it stays juicy. Place both in the basket with space between them. Cook until the salmon flakes easily and the asparagus is tender. For cooking times and how size affects timing, you can check an air fryer size guide: air fryer size and time guide.
Ingredients :
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the asparagus in half of the mixture and place it in the air fryer basket.
- Brush the salmon fillets with the remaining mixture and place them in the basket with the asparagus.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve and enjoy your healthy meal!

how to serve Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
Serve the salmon and asparagus right away. Squeeze a little extra lemon on top for brightness. You can add a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. A light yogurt sauce or a small pat of herb butter also works well.
how to store Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
Cool leftovers quickly. Put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 4-6 minutes until warm. Do not freeze the asparagus; it gets soft when thawed.
tips to make Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
- Use same-size salmon fillets so they cook evenly.
- Pat the salmon dry before brushing the sauce.
- Cut off tough ends of asparagus for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the basket; leave space for air to flow. For more general air fryer tips, see this guide: air fryer chicken your guide to crispy perfection.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap asparagus for green beans or broccoli.
- Use butter instead of olive oil for a richer taste.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley after cooking.
FAQs
How do I know when salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes with a fork and is opaque inside. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).
Can I cook frozen salmon this way?
You can, but add a few extra minutes. Thawing first gives a more even cook and better texture.
Can I use other vegetables with this method?
Yes. Use vegetables that cook in about 8–12 minutes, like green beans, broccoli florets, or sliced bell peppers.
Conclusion
If you want another simple one-pan air fryer salmon and asparagus idea, try this recipe: One Pan Air Fryer Salmon & Asparagus – Eat the Gains.
Print
Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon and Asparagus
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick weeknight dish featuring juicy salmon and tender asparagus, flavored with bright lemon and garlic, cooked in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the asparagus in half of the mixture and place it in the air fryer basket.
- Brush the salmon fillets with the remaining mixture and place them in the basket with the asparagus.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
- Serve and enjoy your healthy meal!
Notes
Serve immediately with optional extra lemon juice, rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: salmon, asparagus, air fryer, quick meal, lemon garlic