Name: Air Fryer Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh parsley (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

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This Air Fryer Salmon is a weeknight dinner dream: crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and bursting with bold flavor. With just a few pantry spices and minimal prep, you’ll have a healthy, satisfying meal on the table in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, or simply balanced diet, this salmon recipe fits the bill.

Air Fryer Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
Healthy: Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and made with wholesome ingredients.
Crispy and Juicy: The air fryer gives you restaurant-quality results without deep frying.
Minimal Cleanup: No messy pans or oven—just one air fryer basket to wash.
Versatile: Pairs well with salads, rice, quinoa, steamed veggies, or roasted potatoes.

Ingredients

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

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)

Directions

Prep the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick and ensure a crispy finish.
Season the Fillets
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Drizzle lemon juice on top.
Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Air Fry the Salmon
Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the salmon is flaky and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Garnish and Serve
Remove salmon and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Herb Lovers: Add fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary for a more herbaceous flavor.
Asian-Inspired: Swap olive oil for sesame oil and add a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Honey Garlic: Drizzle with a mix of honey and minced garlic before air frying for a sweet and savory twist.
Lemon Pepper: Replace paprika and cayenne with lemon pepper seasoning for a citrusy kick.
Maple Glazed: Brush salmon with maple syrup and a touch of Dijon mustard before air frying.

Storage/Reheating

To store: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?

Yes, just add 3–4 extra minutes to the cook time. However, for best texture, thaw first and pat dry.

How do I know when salmon is done cooking?

It should easily flake with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

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

No, there’s no need to flip when cooking skin-side down—the air circulates evenly.

Can I use skinless salmon?

Yes, but skin-on helps retain moisture and adds crispiness. Either option works well.

What can I serve with air fryer salmon?

It pairs great with rice, roasted veggies, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?

Yes, you can season and refrigerate the salmon up to 12 hours before cooking for deeper flavor.

What kind of salmon should I use?

Atlantic or wild-caught sockeye work well. Choose thick, center-cut fillets for even cooking.

Can I use foil or parchment in the air fryer?

Yes, parchment liners designed for air fryers are fine. Avoid covering the entire basket to maintain airflow.

Why is my salmon dry?

Overcooking is usually the cause. Use a thermometer and remove it promptly when it hits 145°F.

Is this recipe keto or low-carb?

Yes, this air fryer salmon is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Salmon is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when you need something healthy, flavorful, and fast. With a simple spice rub and foolproof air fryer technique, you’ll get perfectly cooked salmon every time. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a nourishing, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.

Air Fryer Salmon

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Author: Jessica
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Category: Main
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Air Fryer Salmon is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it’s the perfect healthy dinner ready in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets. Drizzle with lemon juice.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Pair with rice, veggies, or salad.

Notes

Cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
For a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes.