If you’re looking for a foolproof way to get tender, flavorful fish with almost zero fuss, you have to try Air Fryer Salmon. This dish has become a weeknight hero in my kitchen for its crispy edges, flaky interior, and how incredibly fast it comes together. Whether you’re new to the air fryer or already an aficionado, this recipe makes it delightfully easy to get perfect salmon every single time. The best part? With a handful of aromatic spices and a zesty finish of lemon, every mouthful is fresh, vibrant, and restaurant-worthy, without any complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Air Fryer Salmon is how it transforms a few simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal. Each element brings a special touch, so don’t skip any—the end result is all about balance!
- Salmon fillets: For the best flavor and moisture, buy salmon fillets about 6 ounces each, with skin on for extra crispiness or off for a cleaner presentation.
- Olive oil: This adds moisture and helps the spice blend adhere, giving the fish that glistening, golden finish.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the salmon with savory depth and a subtle aromatic punch.
- Onion powder: Adds a mild, sweet savoriness that helps round out the seasoning.
- Smoked paprika: This not only brings gorgeous color but also a gentle smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Fine sea salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the fish and balancing the other seasonings.
- Freshly-ground black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and brightness that’s never overpowering.
- Lemon wedges: For serving—a quick squeeze just before eating brightens every bite and ties all the flavors together!
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon
Step 1: Prep Your Salmon
Start by selecting fresh, high-quality salmon fillets—wild-caught if possible for robust flavor. Pat them dry with paper towels, which helps the olive oil and spices cling better and encourages that coveted crispy exterior. Drying also helps the salmon cook evenly, so don’t skip this quick step!
Step 2: Season Generously
Rub each salmon fillet with a light coat of olive oil to lock in moisture and set the stage for those beautiful, crisp edges. In a bowl, blend together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for a simple yet deeply satisfying spice mix. Sprinkle this all over the fillets, gently pressing the seasonings into the surface so every bite is well flavored.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the fillets skin side down (if they have skin) in your air fryer basket, making sure to leave a little room between each to allow the hot air to circulate. Cook at 400°F for about 7 to 9 minutes, adjusting the time depending on thickness. The magic of Air Fryer Salmon is that it comes out tender and flaky, with the skin turning crisp and irresistible. Check for doneness by seeing if the salmon flakes easily with a fork; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 125 to 130°F for medium.
Step 4: Serve with a Burst of Freshness
Once your salmon is perfectly cooked, transfer it gently to serving plates. Squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over each piece just before digging in—the citrusy zing lifts all the flavors and makes the color pop!
How to Serve Air Fryer Salmon
Garnishes
Finish your Air Fryer Salmon with fresh herbs like chopped dill, parsley, or chives for an additional pop of color and flavor. Toasted sesame seeds or a touch of flaky sea salt also look beautiful and add another dimension of texture.
Side Dishes
This dish sits beautifully alongside so many sides—think fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. For a simple but striking plate, pair it with steamed asparagus or tender-crisp green beans dressed with lemon.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the Air Fryer Salmon and serve it over a hearty grain bowl, flake it onto a crisp Caesar salad, or tuck it into tacos with a vibrant slaw for something a little different. This versatile fish can also be layered on toast with avocado and microgreens for a fancy brunch vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Air Fryer Salmon will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To keep everything tasting bright, wait to add any fresh lemon juice until you’re ready to eat.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cooked salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in parchment or wax paper, then place in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. It will keep for up to two months, retaining both flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the salmon back into the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350°F, or microwave gently, covered, with a splash of water to prevent it drying out. Add lemon juice after reheating for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I cook the salmon from frozen in the air fryer?
Yes! You can place frozen salmon fillets right in the air fryer. Just add an extra 3–4 minutes to the cook time and be sure to season after a few minutes, so the spices stick as it thaws.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer for this recipe?
While it’s not strictly necessary, preheating the air fryer ensures a more even cook and a crispier exterior on your salmon. A three-minute preheat at 400°F is perfect.
How can I make sure my salmon doesn’t stick to the air fryer basket?
Lightly brush or spray the basket with olive oil before adding the salmon, or line it with perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers. This makes cleanup a breeze, too!
Is this recipe suitable for skinless salmon fillets?
Absolutely! The results are just as tasty with skinless fillets; just be a bit more gentle when removing from the basket, as they’ll be more delicate without the skin for support.
What other seasonings can I use for variation?
Try adding dried Italian herbs, Cajun spice, or a touch of honey and mustard for a sweet, savory spin. The beauty of Air Fryer Salmon is that you can easily adapt it to your favorite flavors!
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried Air Fryer Salmon, you’ll see why it’s earned a permanent place on my dinner rotation. It’s quick, flavorful, and so easy to customize—perfect for busy nights or when you want a healthy meal that still feels special. I hope you love it as much as I do!
Print
Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Learn how to make perfectly cooked and flavorful Air Fryer Salmon with this easy recipe. Enjoy tender and flaky salmon seasoned with garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and more, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. A quick and delicious seafood dish that’s ready in minutes!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
- lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prep salmon: Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and rub evenly to coat. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over the salmon and pat gently so the seasoning sticks.
- Air fry: Arrange fillets in the air fryer basket skin side down. Cook at 400°F for 7–9 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temp of 125–130°F for medium.
- Serve: Squeeze with fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: Approx. 300 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
