Air Fryer Salmon

Name: Air Fryer Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Seafood
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)

Published: July 10, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Cooking Time: This Air Fryer Salmon cooks in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Healthier Option: Air frying reduces the need for excess oil, resulting in a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor-Packed: The seasoning blend enhances the natural taste of salmon, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Versatile Meal: Pair it with rice, veggies, or salad for a complete meal tailored to your preferences.
Easy Cleanup: The air fryer basket is easy to clean, saving you time after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this flavorful recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Paper towels
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This tool allows you to cook quickly while achieving that desired crispy texture without deep frying.
Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining spices and oil before applying them to the salmon fillets.
Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that each flavor shines through in your dish.
Tongs: Perfect for safely handling hot salmon fillets when transferring them from the air fryer.

Ingredients

This Air Fryer Salmon is crispy on the outside, tender and flaky inside, and packed with flavor. It’s a quick and healthy meal ready in under 15 minutes!

For the Salmon

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, for spice)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

How to Make Air Fryer Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets. Drizzle with lemon juice.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat it for about 3 minutes. This step ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes based on thickness until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Pair your delicious Air Fryer Salmon with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon

Serving Air Fryer Salmon is both simple and versatile. You can enhance its flavor and presentation with various sides and garnishes that complement the dish perfectly.

With Steamed Vegetables

Broccoli: Lightly steam broccoli to retain its bright color and crunch.
Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, season, and serve alongside for an elegant touch.

On a Bed of Rice

Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice pairs well with the richness of salmon.
Quinoa: A nutty alternative that adds protein and fiber to your meal.

Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette balances the savory flavors.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber slices tossed with dill and lemon make a crisp side.

With Lemon Wedges

Brighten your dish by serving with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

Perfecting your Air Fryer Salmon takes a few key steps to ensure it’s delicious every time.

Dry the Fillets: Patting the salmon dry helps achieve a crispy skin while cooking.
Use High Heat: Cooking at 375°F (190°C) allows for even cooking and browning.
Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s space between fillets in the air fryer for optimal airflow.
Check Doneness: Use a fork to check if the salmon flakes easily; this indicates it’s cooked through.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Air Fryer Salmon can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes seasoned and roasted until caramelized add sweetness.
Quinoa Pilaf: A hearty quinoa pilaf mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious option.
Cauliflower Rice: Light and low-carb, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well.
Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic adds vibrant green color and nutrients.
Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers makes a refreshing side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Air fryer cooking can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect your Air Fryer Salmon. Here are some to watch out for:

Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon enough can lead to bland flavor. Ensure you coat the fillets evenly with spices and lemon juice.
Bold overcrowding: Placing too many fillets in the air fryer basket can prevent even cooking. Always leave space between the salmon pieces.
Bold incorrect temperature: Cooking at a temperature that’s too low may result in rubbery salmon. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for perfect results.
Bold skipping preheating: Not preheating the air fryer can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat for a few minutes before adding your salmon.
Bold ignoring thickness: Cooking times vary based on the thickness of salmon fillets. Check for flakiness and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Salmon

Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Salmon

Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Bold Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Bold Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Salmon.

How do I know when my Air Fryer Salmon is done?

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

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon; however, increase the cooking time by a few minutes until fully cooked.

What should I serve with Air Fryer Salmon?

This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize the seasonings on my Air Fryer Salmon?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like dill, lemon zest, or even honey mustard glaze.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Salmon recipe is not only quick but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs and sides. Give it a try tonight!