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Crispy air fryer salmon fillet on a plate. Quick 15-minute dinner recipe.
Lady Maria

Air Fryer Salmon Perfection

Enjoy perfectly cooked, flaky salmon with a delightfully crispy exterior in just 15 minutes, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. This recipe delivers a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort and easy cleanup, making it a weeknight hero.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Salmon Fillets 6-8 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika or smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • paper towels
  • small bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Fork
  • Meat thermometer (optional)
  • Brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Brush the salmon fillets generously with the seasoning mixture, coating both sides. Pay extra attention to the skin side if using skin-on salmon.
  5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if using skin-on salmon. Ensure the fillets are not overlapping. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  7. Check for doneness by gently flaking the salmon with a fork. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it's ready.
  8. Let the salmon rest for a minute or two before serving (optional).
  9. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and a lemon wedge for extra zest.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, ensure the salmon is very dry before seasoning. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets and your air fryer model. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Experiment with different seasonings like dried herbs, red pepper flakes, or brown sugar to create your favorite flavor profile.