why make this recipe
This air fryer salmon is quick, healthy, and full of flavor. It cooks fast and stays moist inside with a light spice crust. If you like easy air fryer meals, this is a good choice. You can also check a helpful guide for other air fryer recipes like this air fryer chicken size guide.
introduction
This recipe uses simple spices and lemon. It needs little prep and gives a flaky, tender salmon every time. The air fryer makes a small crisp on the outside while keeping the fish juicy inside.
how to make Air Fryer Salmon
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.

For tips on making the outside slightly crisp while keeping the inside tender, see this short guide to crispy perfection.
how to serve Air Fryer Salmon
Serve the salmon hot with lemon wedges. It goes well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a green salad. Add fresh parsley on top for color. For a quick meal, pair it with simple sides like roasted potatoes or a mixed salad.
how to store Air Fryer Salmon
Let the salmon cool to room temperature for up to 1 hour. Then place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. Eat within 2 days for best taste. To reheat, warm gently in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
tips to make Air Fryer Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry so the seasoning sticks and the outside cooks well.
- Do not overcrowd the basket. Give each fillet room to cook.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure: 145°F (63°C) is the safe temperature for salmon.
- If you want a small crisp, brush a tiny extra oil on top before cooking.
- For fast weeknight meals, try using the quick tips in this quick easy guide.
variation (if any)
- Honey mustard: mix 1 tbsp honey and 1 tsp mustard, brush on before cooking.
- Asian glaze: use soy sauce, ginger, and a little honey as a marinade.
- Herb crust: add chopped dill and parsley to the spice mix.
FAQs
Q: How long do I cook salmon in an air fryer?
A: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for 6 oz fillets. Time may change if fillets are thicker.
Q: Do I need to flip the salmon?
A: No. Cook skin-side down and do not flip. This keeps the fillet intact.
Q: Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
A: Yes. Add a few minutes to the cook time and check with a fork. Thawing first gives better seasoning.
Q: Is the skin edible?
A: Yes. The skin gets crisp and is safe to eat if you like it.
Conclusion
For another quick air fryer salmon idea and extra timing tips, see this full recipe: Air Fryer Salmon {UNDER 10 MINS} – Feel Good Foodie
PrintAir Fryer Salmon
Quick, healthy, and flavorful air fryer salmon that cooks fast and stays moist inside with a light spice crust.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
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 crispy perfection, let the salmon rest after cooking. Serve with sides like steamed vegetables or a salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: salmon, air fryer, healthy dinner, quick meal, seafood