Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
This recipe is simple and straightforward, perfect for cooks of all skill levels. It cooks incredibly fast—ready in around 10 minutes—making it great for quick dinners. The homemade spice rub adds deep flavor without fuss. The air fryer crisps the salmon skin beautifully while keeping the interior flaky and moist.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• Salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried oregano
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
Directions
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
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Pat salmon fillets dry and drizzle with olive oil.
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In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture over all sides of the salmon.
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Place the seasoned salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
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Air fry for 9‑10 minutes, checking at around 9 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.
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Remove and serve with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Servings and timing
Servings: Typically serves about 2–4 people, depending on fillet size.
Prep time: 2‑5 minutes
Cook time: 9‑10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 11‑15 minutes
Variations
• Citrus Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh dill to the spice rub for a bright, refreshing twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the seasonings for heat.
• Teriyaki Glazed: In the last minute of cooking, brush with teriyaki sauce to create a sweet glaze.
• Garlic Butter: After air frying, top each fillet with a pat of garlic herb butter for extra richness.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Refrigerate leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2‑3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3‑4 minutes or in the microwave for 1‑2 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
What temperature should I set my air fryer to cook salmon?
Preheat the air fryer to about 400°F (204°C) for best results.
Do I need to flip the salmon during air frying?
No, flipping isn’t necessary if you place the salmon skin-side down first.
Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
You can cook frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it first so it cooks more evenly.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
What sides go well with air fryer salmon?
Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Can I use skinless salmon fillets?
Yes, skinless fillets work fine but won’t get the crispy skin texture.
What if my salmon fillets are thick?
Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two of cooking time.
Is it better to spray or oil the air fryer basket?
It’s better to rub a little oil on the salmon itself rather than spraying the basket to avoid damaging nonstick coatings.
Can I add a sauce before air frying?
Heavily sugary sauces can burn in the high heat, so it’s best to add glazes near the end or after cooking.
How do I prevent the salmon from sticking?
Make sure to pat fillets dry and coat lightly with oil before seasoning.
Conclusion
This air fryer salmon recipe is a fast, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy salmon any night of the week. With just a few pantry spices and an air fryer, you’ll get crispy skin and tender, perfectly cooked fish in minutes. Whether you keep it simple or add your own twist, it’s an easy staple to add to your recipe rotation.
