Air Fryer Salmon Fillets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Crispy outside with tender, flaky salmon
• Healthy and high in protein
• Uses minimal oil
• Perfect for weeknight meals
• Pairs well with many side dishes

Ingredients

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

• Salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley optional
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Brush the salmon lightly with olive oil.
3. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Preheat the air fryer if needed.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down.
6. Air fry until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice after cooking.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Cajun seasoning for spicy salmon.
• Use honey and garlic for a sweet savory glaze.
• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top before cooking.
• Add fresh dill for extra herb flavor.
• Use teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired version.
• Top with butter and herbs after cooking for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes or enjoy cold in salads and wraps. Avoid overheating to keep the salmon moist.

FAQs

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Do I need to flip salmon in the air fryer?

No, flipping is usually not necessary.

Can I cook frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, but they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.

What temperature should I use?

A temperature around 390°F to 400°F works well.

Can I use skinless salmon?

Yes, both skinless and skin-on fillets work well.

How do I keep salmon from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and use a light coating of oil.

What side dishes go well with salmon?

Rice, roasted vegetables, salads, potatoes, or asparagus pair nicely.

Can I marinate the salmon first?

Yes, marinating adds extra flavor before air frying.

Is air fryer salmon healthy?

Yes, it is high in protein and healthy omega-3 fats.

Can I meal prep air fryer salmon?

Yes, cooked salmon stores well for lunches and meal prep meals.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Salmon Fillets are an easy and delicious way to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon in minutes. With crispy edges, tender flaky texture, and simple seasonings, this healthy recipe is ideal for quick dinners, meal prep, or nutritious family meals any night of the week.

Air Fryer Salmon Fillets

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Air Fryer Salmon Fillets are crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and packed with fresh flavor. This quick and healthy recipe uses simple seasonings and minimal oil, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners or nutritious meal prep.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Air Fry
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Brush the salmon lightly with olive oil.
3. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F if needed.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down in a single layer.
6. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
7. Drizzle the salmon with fresh lemon juice after cooking.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.
• Frozen salmon fillets can be used but may require additional cooking time.
• Add Cajun seasoning or teriyaki sauce for different flavor variations.
• Fresh dill, butter, or Parmesan cheese make excellent toppings.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, salads, potatoes, or asparagus.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 260 kcal
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg