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Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Have you ever wondered how the cooking method affects the taste and texture of salmon? Many people believe that grilling or baking is the best way to prepare this flaky fish. However, the right technique can significantly change your culinary experience. In this post, we will share 7 Amazing Tips for the Best Air Fryer Salmon Recipe you’ll ever try! Cooking salmon in an air fryer can save you time and offer a deliciously crisp skin while keeping the fish tender and juicy.
Ingredients List

To whip up this delectable Air Fryer Salmon Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (skin-on recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace olive oil with a spray oil. For a zestier flavor, incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley instead of dried spices.
Timing
Preparation for this Air Fryer Salmon Recipe takes just 10 minutes, while the cooking time is about 12 minutes. In total, you’ll have your meal ready in approximately 22 minutes, which is about 20% less time than the average oven-baked salmon recipe. That means more time for savoring your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This ensures that the seasoning sticks well.
Step 2: Season
Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets, ensuring both sides are lightly coated. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper generously to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating will give your salmon that crisp crust we all crave!
Step 4: Air Fry
Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon. Check for doneness around the 8-minute mark by gently flaking the fish with a fork.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked to perfection, remove the salmon from the air fryer. Serve it with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information
An average serving of this Air Fryer Salmon Recipe contains approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
This powerhouse of nutrition provides high-quality protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to add more nutrients without compromising on the taste, consider these modifications:
- Use a spice blend that includes turmeric for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Replace salmon with trout or even tofu for a plant-based option, providing similar textures and flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your dining experience by pairing your air-fried salmon with:
- A fresh green salad
- Quinoa with roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting touch
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Salmon cooks quickly; check for doneness early to avoid dryness.
- Not Preheating: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking.
- Too Much Oil: Olive oil is great, but too much can lead to greasy fish.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers, store your air-fried salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To avoid losing flavor and moisture, consume within this timeframe.
Print
7 Amazing Tips for the Best Air Fryer Salmon Recipe You’ll Ever Try!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Air Fryer Salmon is a quick and healthy way to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon with a crisp exterior and tender, juicy center. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, this meal comes together in less than 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin on or off)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges and fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil and season evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Air Fry: Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve with lemon wedges and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
No need to flip the salmon unless your air fryer recommends it. For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in olive oil and lemon juice for 15 minutes before cooking. Serve with steamed veggies, rice, or salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: air fryer salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy fish dinner
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers a burst of flavor that your taste buds will adore. With these tips in mind, we invite you to experiment and make this dish your own. Don’t hesitate to share your results or explore similar recipes right here on our blog!
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and air frying. This helps achieve even cooking.
What should I serve with air-fried salmon?
We recommend a light salad or steamed vegetables to complement the richness of the salmon.
Can I air fry other fish in the same way?
Absolutely! Most fish cook well in the air fryer using similar seasoning and cooking times.
Embrace this fantastic way of preparing salmon and enjoy a delightful culinary journey! Happy cooking!