- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 15–17 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat each salmon fillet dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps create a crisp exterior. Place the fillets on a plate or cutting board.
Step 2: Season the Fish
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure every piece is fully coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the salmon develop a lightly crisp crust.
Step 4: Arrange the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Leave a little space between each fillet so the hot air can circulate properly. Avoid overcrowding the basket.
Step 5: Cook
Air fry the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for extra freshness.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Salmon
- Choose salmon fillets of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Do not overcook the fish, as salmon continues cooking slightly after being removed from the air fryer.
- A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning stick while keeping the salmon moist.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the fish.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook the salmon in batches instead of overcrowding it.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or your favorite seafood seasoning before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Air Fryer Salmon pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- Garlic butter green beans
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Brown rice or jasmine rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Quinoa
- Caesar salad
- Mixed garden salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Lemon herb couscous
Storage Instructions
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 4 minutes to maintain its texture. Avoid overheating, as it may dry out.
Cooked salmon can also be flaked into salads, wraps, sandwiches, pasta dishes, or grain bowls for easy lunches throughout the week.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Potassium: 720mg
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Approximately 1.8g