Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

If you want a dinner that’s just as impressive as it is effortless, Air Fryer Salmon is your new weeknight superhero. In less than 15 minutes, you get melt-in-your-mouth fillets with a perfectly seasoned, golden crust—no oven, no fuss, and hardly any cleanup!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh salmon to create a dish that truly shines. Each ingredient is here for a reason—building flavor, ensuring that signature flaky texture, and bringing vibrant color to your plate!

• Salmon Fillets: Go for skin-on or skinless fillets; both work, but skin-on adds a little extra richness and keeps the fish tender.
• Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil adds flavor and encourages a gorgeous caramelized crust in the air fryer.
• Garlic Powder: Much gentler than raw garlic, this brings warm, savory depth to every bite.
• Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a hint of color that makes your salmon look irresistible.
• Salt & Black Pepper: These seasonings unlock all the natural flavors of the fish—don’t be shy.
• Lemon Wedges: A bright squeeze of lemon just before serving makes every fillet sparkle.
• Tartar Sauce: Classic for a reason—a creamy, tangy dip that plays up the salmon’s richness.

Variations

One of the best things about Air Fryer Salmon is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re working with what you have on hand or craving something bold and different, a few tweaks can make this dish your own.

• Cajun Kick: Swap the paprika for Cajun seasoning for a spicy, Southern twist.
• Lemon Herb: Add fresh chopped dill or parsley with the seasoning for a zesty, garden-fresh finish.
• Asian-Inspired: Brush with a little soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before cooking.
• Honey Mustard: Whisk together honey and Dijon, spread over the fillets, and air fry as usual for a sweet-savory glaze.

How to Make Air Fryer Salmon

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it’s heating, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, which helps that delicious crust form and keeps the seasonings in place.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Give each fillet a loving rub with olive oil—don’t forget the sides! Then sprinkle on garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, pressing gently so the flavors cling to the fish.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Arrange the salmon in your air fryer basket, leaving a little space between fillets for even airflow. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes; thicker pieces may need an extra minute or two. When it’s done, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have a lightly crisped exterior.

Step 4: Check and Serve

Carefully peek inside the basket to test for doneness. If you like your Air Fryer Salmon a bit more well-done, just pop it back in for a minute. Serve hot, with lemon wedges and a scoop of tartar sauce on the side.

How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon

Garnishes

This Air Fryer Salmon truly shines with a shower of fresh herbs—think dill, parsley, or even chives. A final squeeze of lemon or scatter of lemon zest transforms the flavors, while a sprinkle of flaky salt just as it comes out of the fryer can be pure magic.

Side Dishes

Keep it light and balanced with steamed or roasted green beans, a crisp green salad, or fluffy quinoa. For a cozy meal, try pairing with creamy mashed potatoes or garlicky rice. The subtle flavor of Air Fryer Salmon even works with sweet potatoes or corn on the cob.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the salmon and arrange over a vibrant grain bowl, or lay each fillet on a bed of arugula with a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette. For a fun spin, try making mini salmon sliders with brioche buns, or serve in tacos with fresh slaw for a crowd-pleasing twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your extra fillets cool, then pop them into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days—they stay beautifully moist and ready for salads, grain bowls, or lunchboxes.

Freezing

Air Fryer Salmon freezes well! Place cooked, completely cooled fillets in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using for best results.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat leftover salmon in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F, or gently warm in a skillet. The microwave works in a pinch, but lower heat helps maintain moisture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Air Fryer Salmon enough for an effortless yet elegant meal. If you give it a go, get ready for rave reviews—fresh, flaky fish in a fraction of the time, with all the flavor and none of the fuss. I hope it becomes your new go-to too!

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