Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

I love crafting an Air Fryer Salmon Dinner that celebrates simple ingredients like fresh salmon fillets, zesty lemon, and a hint of smoked paprika. I season the fish with garlic powder and olive oil to enhance its natural flavor, resulting in a crisp texture and a satisfying healthy dinner option.

I recently discovered an amazing twist on air fried salmon that’s become a favorite in my kitchen. If you’re looking for an easy recipe for salmon that satisfies the whole family, this air fryer fresh salmon does just the trick.

I start with four salmon fillets and give them a light coating of olive oil, then sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. A squeeze of lemon juice really brings out the flavor, and I sometimes add smoked paprika for a slight smoky kick.

The crisp skin and juicy interior remind me why I love air fryer fish recipes salmon so much. This simple method makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, even if you’re an air fryer beginner.

I love how easily it comes together, making it one of the best ways to cook fresh salmon for a healthy dinner. Give it a try and see why it’s become my go-to quick salmon fix.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because it makes the salmon come out really crispy while still staying super moist inside, which is awesome for a quick dinner. I’m also a big fan of how easy the instructions are – it doesn’t take long to prep and cook, so it’s perfect for those hectic school nights. I enjoy that the ingredients are pretty simple and healthy too, you know, lots of good stuff like olive oil and lemon that really brighten up the flavors. Plus, I love how versatile it is; sometimes i mix up the spices a bit or add extra lemon for a twist, and it still comes out delicious every time.

Ingredients

• Salmon: Rich in protein plus omega-3 fatty acids which are important for a healthy heart.
• Olive oil: Packed with healthy fats to improve flavor and promote good cholesterol levels.
• Lemon: Adds a bright, tangy taste that cuts through the richness of the fish.
• Garlic powder: Offers a mild, savory zing to enhance the natural taste of the salmon.
• Dill: Provides a fresh herbal aroma that pairs really well with delicate fish flavors.
• Smoked paprika: Lends a smoky note and a subtle spice that deepens the overall flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients while bringing perfect seasoning balance.
• Extra lemon slices: They add tangy zest and brighten up the dish visually.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on if available)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra lemon slices for serving)
• Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

How to Make this

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for a few minutes.

2. Pat dry the salmon fillets with a paper towel and place them in a bowl.

3. Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets, then sprinkle salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and if you’re using, smoked paprika.

4. Squeeze the juice of one lemon evenly over the salmon.

5. Rub the seasoning gently into the salmon to make sure it’s well coated.

6. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overlapping.

7. Cook the salmon for about 10-12 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork.

8. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with extra lemon slices. Enjoy your dinner!

Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer
2. Air fryer basket
3. Mixing bowl
4. Paper towels
5. Measuring spoons
6. Knife (for slicing lemon if needed)
7. Cutting board

FAQ

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or even a little bit of melted butter instead
• If you ran out of smoked paprika, try regular paprika or a pinch of cumin for a different twist
• If you don’t have fresh lemon, a squeeze of lime juice or even a splash of white wine vinegar can work in a pinch
• If you don’t like garlic powder too much, minced fresh garlic might be a good swap – just be careful not to overdo it

Pro Tips

1. Try letting your seasoned salmon sit for about 10 minutes before air frying so the flavors really get into the fish. It helps to make everything taste more balanced.

2. Make sure you don’t crowd the air fryer basket. Giving each fillet a bit of space helps them cook evenly and get that crispy outer layer.

3. Check your salmon a couple of minutes before the timer is up. Every air fryer cooks a bit different so poke it with a fork to see if it flakes easily; if not, give it a little more time.

4. If you like experimenting, toss in a little extra lemon juice or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs over the top right before serving for a fresh, zesty finish.