Easy Air Fryer Salmon

Short Description

This Easy Air Fryer Salmon recipe delivers tender, flaky salmon with a crispy exterior in just minutes. With minimal ingredients and no need for oil-heavy frying, this dish is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Serve it with your favorite sides for a delicious and nutritious dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 15 minutes
• Healthy option – Uses minimal oil for a lighter meal
• Crispy outside, tender inside – Perfect texture every time
• Versatile – Pairs well with various seasonings and sides
• No mess – The air fryer makes cleanup a breeze

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Salmon fillets (fresh or thawed)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: Honey, soy sauce, or Dijon mustard for extra flavor

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer – Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the salmon – Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush them with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Season the fillets – Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the fillets. Drizzle with lemon juice.
4. Air fry – Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve and enjoy – Remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
• Total Time: 12-15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Honey Garlic: Mix honey and minced garlic for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Asian-Inspired: Brush with soy sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
• Lemon Herb: Add fresh dill or parsley for a refreshing flavor.
• Cajun Style: Use a Cajun spice blend for bold seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon dry.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Yes! Just increase the cooking time by 2-4 minutes and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Do I need to flip the salmon in the air fryer?

No, flipping is not necessary. Cooking it skin-side down ensures even cooking.

Can I cook salmon with the skin on?

Yes! The skin gets crispy and helps keep the fish moist. You can eat it or remove it after cooking.

What air fryer temperature is best for salmon?

400°F (200°C) works best for a crispy exterior and tender inside.

Can I add vegetables to cook with the salmon?

Yes! Add asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli to the basket for a complete meal.

What should I serve with air fryer salmon?

Try it with rice, quinoa, roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

How do I keep the salmon from drying out?

Avoid overcooking, and brush with oil or butter before cooking to retain moisture.

Can I marinate the salmon before air frying?

Yes! Marinate for 15-30 minutes in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices for extra flavor.

What type of salmon is best for air frying?

Skin-on fillets like Atlantic, sockeye, or coho salmon work best for texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Easy Air Fryer Salmon recipe is a game-changer for quick and healthy meals. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can enjoy perfectly cooked salmon in minutes. Whether you keep it simple or try one of the variations, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it fresh and flavorful!

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