Easy Air Fryer Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Salmon is a quick and healthy way to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With just a few minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to serve.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and drizzle them with olive oil.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a minute.
7. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and garnish with parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Garlic Butter Salmon: Brush melted garlic butter over the fillets before air frying.
• Herb-Crusted Salmon: Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
• Honey Glazed Salmon: Drizzle honey over the fillets for a sweet and savory balance.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it completely before air frying for even cooking.

Do I need to flip the salmon?

No, air frying skin-side down ensures even cooking without flipping.

Can I use a marinade?

Yes, but pat the fillets dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture.

What sides go well with air fryer salmon?

Steamed vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.

How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and check for doneness at the 8-minute mark.

Can I cook this in a different type of air fryer?

Yes, but cooking times may vary slightly depending on the model.

Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! The recipe is naturally keto-friendly when paired with low-carb sides.

How do I make the salmon extra crispy?

Lightly spray the fillets with cooking spray before air frying.

What other seasonings work well?

Lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or Italian herbs add great flavor.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, trout, cod, or tilapia work well with this method.

Conclusion

Easy Air Fryer Salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this quick-cooking recipe ensures a healthy and delicious dinner in no time. Try it today and enjoy perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy finish!

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