Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of fresh, tangy, and savory. The cilantro and lime infuse the salmon with vibrant flavor, while the air fryer creates a slightly crispy exterior and juicy interior without the need for excessive oil. It’s a low-carb, high-protein meal that’s ready in minutes, making it a go-to option for busy days. Plus, it’s easy to customize with spices and toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

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

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Fresh lime juice
• Lime zest
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Ground cumin
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
4. Brush the marinade generously over each salmon fillet. Let them marinate for 10–15 minutes for deeper flavor, if time allows.
5. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin side down if using skin-on fillets.
6. Air fry for 7–10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove and serve immediately with extra lime wedges and cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 4 people and takes about 20 minutes in total, including prep and cooking time.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Honey Lime Twist: Add a teaspoon of honey for a hint of sweetness.
• Garlic Butter Version: Swap olive oil for melted garlic butter for a richer flavor.
• Avocado Topping: Top with diced avocado and tomato for a fresh, summery vibe.
• Mexican-Inspired: Serve with corn salsa or on tacos for a twist on classic salmon.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes or warm gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the salmon rubbery.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking for best results.

Is it okay to leave the skin on the salmon?

Absolutely. The skin helps hold the salmon together and crisps nicely in the air fryer.

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Atlantic salmon or sockeye salmon both work well, but choose fresh or high-quality fillets for best flavor.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) in a conventional oven for about 12–15 minutes.

How long should I marinate the salmon?

10–15 minutes is enough, but you can marinate up to 30 minutes if you have more time.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.

What can I serve with cilantro lime salmon?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon is a simple yet vibrant dish that’s bursting with fresh flavor and comes together in just minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick dinner, this healthy and versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon

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Air Fryer Cilantro Lime Salmon is a zesty, herb-infused salmon dish cooked to perfection in the air fryer. With a crisp exterior, tender inside, and fresh citrus-herb flavor, it’s a quick, healthy, and vibrant weeknight dinner option.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 to 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 2–4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• 3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, zest, garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat salmon fillets dry and brush with marinade. Marinate 10–15 minutes if time allows.
4. Place salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if skin-on.
5. Air fry 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon flakes easily and reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove, rest briefly, and serve with lime wedges and extra cilantro.

Notes

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
• Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
• For a spicy version, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Pairs well with rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables.
• Leftovers are best reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet (based on 4 servings)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 85mg