Easy Air Fryer Salmon
Easy Air Fryer Salmon is a quick and healthy dinner option that delivers perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy flesh in under 15 minutes. This fuss-free recipe uses minimal oil and simple ingredients, making it a nutritious, flavorful, and convenient choice for busy weeknights.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-9 minutes
- Total Time: 12-14 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 fresh salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or thyme (optional, for garnish)
- Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Lightly brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and lemon zest.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
- Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes depending on fillet thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Add Fresh Lemon Juice: After cooking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon fillets and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Patting salmon dry is essential to achieving crispy skin.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Start checking the salmon at 7 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Use skin-on fillets to protect the flesh and enhance texture.
- Customize seasonings with different herbs, spices, or marinades for varied flavors.
- Lightly oil the air fryer basket or use perforated parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: air fryer salmon, healthy salmon recipe, quick salmon dinner, crispy salmon skin, easy salmon, gluten free seafood