Name: Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; lemon wedges and fresh parsley

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If you love a dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and fuss-free, Easy Air Fryer Salmon is about to become your new best friend. In less than 15 minutes, you can have perfectly cooked salmon fillets, juicy on the inside with a gorgeous golden edge, infused with a bright, lemony-garlic marinade. Whether you’re feeding yourself after a busy day or impressing a table of guests, this Easy Air Fryer Salmon lets you enjoy healthy, restaurant-quality seafood any night of the week—no culinary degree or fancy techniques required!

Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish proves that simple ingredients can work absolute magic. Every item has a role to play: olive oil brings richness, garlic and paprika deliver depth, while lemon and parsley keep things deliciously fresh. Here’s what you’ll need for Easy Air Fryer Salmon:

Salmon fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Choose skin-on fillets for extra moisture and flavor—you’ll love how beautifully they crisp up.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): This keeps the salmon moist and helps the seasonings stick, adding a silky richness.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the salmon.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Fresh garlic infuses every bite with irresistible aroma and depth.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives the salmon a warm color and gentle smokiness—feel free to use smoked paprika for even more flavor.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings balance, amplifying all the other flavors.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a little kick and rounds out the seasoning blend.
Lemon wedges and fresh parsley (for serving): The classic finishing touches that not only look beautiful but also brighten the whole plate.

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Salmon

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). A hot air fryer is key for getting that lovely golden crust while keeping the salmon perfectly tender inside. While it’s heating, this is the perfect time to get everything else ready—no wasted moments here!

Step 2: Prep the Salmon Fillets

Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels. This small step helps the marinade cling to the fish, and it also helps the salmon sear more effectively, locking in all those delicious juices. Dry fillets mean tastier results!

Step 3: Whisk Together the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. This fragrant mixture is the secret to the Easy Air Fryer Salmon’s signature flavor—a balance of zesty, savory, and just a little bit smoky.

Step 4: Season the Salmon

Brush or rub the marinade generously over each salmon fillet, making sure to coat both sides. Don’t forget the edges! The oil and seasonings will infuse the fish as it cooks, while the vibrant paprika gives the salmon a hint of color and warmth.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, in a single layer so the hot air can circulate evenly. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’re looking for salmon that’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork—so juicy and tender inside, with a lightly crisped exterior.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Use a spatula to carefully lift the fillets from the air fryer. Top with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. The result: restaurant-worthy Easy Air Fryer Salmon delivered right from your kitchen, ready to steal the show at any meal.

How to Serve Easy Air Fryer Salmon

Garnishes

Top your salmon with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbal freshness. Lemon wedges alongside add a pop of flavor and brighten each bite. For a special touch, a pinch of flaky sea salt or a dusting of smoked paprika can elevate the presentation even more.

Side Dishes

Easy Air Fryer Salmon pairs beautifully with so many sides! Think crisp green beans, roasted potatoes, a tangy cucumber salad, or fluffy quinoa. For a light meal, serve with a simple leafy salad and crusty bread. The salmon’s versatility keeps things exciting, no matter what you have on hand.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Flake the salmon over grain bowls with avocado and quick-pickled veggies, or tuck slices into tacos with creamy slaw. You can also arrange the fillets over a bed of herby rice and scatter with microgreens for a dinner-party-worthy plate. Easy Air Fryer Salmon is endlessly adaptable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Easy Air Fryer Salmon, let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Freezing

Salmon freezes well, though it’s best enjoyed freshly cooked. To freeze, wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F until warmed through—this keeps the edges slightly crisp. You can also reheat gently in the microwave, covered, but watch closely so the salmon stays moist and doesn’t overcook.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for Easy Air Fryer Salmon?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen fillets, thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cool running water. Once thawed, continue with the recipe as written for best results.

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

No need to flip! Keeping the fillets skin-side down allows the hot air to cook the tops evenly while the skin protects the flesh, ensuring your Easy Air Fryer Salmon turns out juicy and never dry.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is ready when it’s opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. If you use a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe, delicious salmon every time.

Can I change up the seasonings?

Definitely! Easy Air Fryer Salmon is a fantastic blank canvas—try adding a sprinkle of dill, a dash of Cajun spice, or a tiny drizzle of honey before cooking to mix it up and suit your mood.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! Salmon is a superstar protein, loaded with heart-healthy omega-3s, and the recipe uses minimal oil. Plus, air frying keeps things lighter and lets the fresh flavors shine. Great for low-carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, healthy, and brimming with flavor, you really can’t go wrong with Easy Air Fryer Salmon. Give it a try and discover just how effortless and delicious weeknight dinners can be—this recipe is sure to earn a regular spot in your rotation!

Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Air Fryer Salmon recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The salmon fillets are seasoned with a flavorful mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, then air-fried to perfection. Serve with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a delicious meal in just minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Fillets:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

Seasoning:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

lemon wedges and fresh parsley

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Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and in a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Season Salmon: Brush or rub the mixture over the salmon fillets on both sides.
Cook Salmon: Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges before serving.