Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe | Perfect in 20 Mins

Salmon lovers, rejoice! If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious way to cook salmon, the air fryer is your best friend. This recipe delivers perfectly flaky salmon with a crispy exterior in under 20 minutes—minimal prep required. Whether you're a health-conscious cook, an air fryer enthusiast, or someone who just wants a fast, nutritious meal, this guide is here to make your life easier.

We'll walk you through the benefits of air frying salmon, the exact steps to cook it perfectly, and a few flavor variations to suit your palate.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Salmon?

If you haven't tried air frying salmon yet, you're missing out on a game-changer. Here's why:

1. Healthier Cooking Method

Air frying requires little to no oil, making it a healthier option compared to pan-frying or baking with oil.

2. Even Cooking

The circulating hot air ensures your salmon cooks evenly, with a perfectly crisp exterior and soft, flaky interior.

3. Quick and Easy

Busy weeknight? No problem. Salmon cooks in the air fryer in about 10-12 minutes, making it a great option for a fast and satisfying meal.

4. Mess-Free and Convenient

Forget greasy pans or a smoky kitchen. The air fryer contains all the mess, and cleanup is a breeze.

The Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Follow this step-by-step guide to create restaurant-quality salmon at home.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you'll need:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and gives the salmon a nice, crisp outer layer.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry using a paper towel. This helps the oil and seasoning stick better. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the fillets.

Step 3: Season Generously

Combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if applicable, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top for extra brightness and flavor. Serve with your favorite side dish, and enjoy!

Tips for The Best Air Fryer Salmon

• Choose the Right Salmon: Wild-caught salmon is generally leaner and has a more robust flavor, while farm-raised salmon is slightly fattier and milder.
• Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Give your salmon enough space in the air fryer for the hot air to circulate properly. Cook in batches if needed.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures your salmon is cooked to perfection without being overdone.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While the garlic-paprika rub is a classic, you can try other flavors such as lemon-dill, teriyaki glaze, or a hint of chili powder for a spicy kick.

Flavor Variations to Try

Spice things up with these delicious seasoning ideas:

1. Lemon and Dill: Replace smoked paprika with dried dill and drizzle lemon juice before cooking.
2. Maple Soy Glaze: Mix 1 tbsp maple syrup with 1 tbsp soy sauce and brush it over the salmon before air frying.
3. Cajun Kick: Use a Cajun spice blend for a smoky, spicy flavor.
4. Garlic Butter: Spread softened garlic butter over hot, cooked salmon for a decadent finish.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon?

Air fryer salmon pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Here are some ideas for a complete meal:

• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or air fryer Brussels sprouts.
• Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, or a simple garlic butter orzo.
• Salad: A crisp cucumber and tomato salad or a citrus arugula salad complements the richness of salmon wonderfully.

Why Health-Conscious Cooks Love Air Fryer Salmon

Salmon is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Air frying preserves these nutrients while minimizing the need for added fats, making it the perfect choice for a balanced diet. Whether you're looking to fuel your body after a workout or serve something nutritious to your family, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

With an air fryer, cooking salmon has never been this easy, healthy, or delicious. Whether you're an experienced air fryer enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe guarantees success. Give it a try and experiment with different flavors to make it your own.

And if you're as passionate about air frying as we are, stay tuned for more quick, tasty, and healthy air fryer recipes on our blog. Happy cooking!