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Air Fryer Salmon

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

If you’re looking for healthy recipes that don’t feel like a compromise, this air fryer salmon is one you’ll come back to again and again. It’s fast, flavorful, and surprisingly foolproof—even if you’ve never cooked salmon before.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Air Fryer
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets 5–6 oz / 140–170 g each
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked or sweet
  • ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme
  • Optional: lemon zest or chili flakes

For Serving (Optional):

  • Fresh lemon wedges
  • Fresh herbs parsley, dill
  • Steamed vegetables or salad

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Air Fryer

    Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the salmon cook evenly and prevents sticking.

  • Prepare the Salmon

    Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial—removing excess moisture allows the surface to crisp instead of steam.
    Brush each fillet lightly with oil on all sides.

  • Season Generously

    Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning evenly over the salmon.

  • Arrange in the Basket

    Place salmon fillets skin-side down in a single layer. Leave space between each piece so hot air can circulate.

  • Air Fry

    Cook at 390°F (200°C) for:
    7–9 minutes for medium
    9–11 minutes for well-done
    The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium or 140°F (60°C) for well-done.

  • Rest & Serve

    Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Finish with lemon juice and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Air Fryer Salmon Variations

1. Lemon Garlic Salmon

Add fresh garlic and lemon slices before cooking. Finish with butter.

2. Honey Soy Salmon

Brush with a mix of soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Reduce cooking time by 1 minute.

3. Cajun Spiced Salmon

Use Cajun seasoning for bold, smoky heat.

4. Mediterranean Salmon

Season with oregano, garlic, olive oil, and serve with olives and tomatoes.

5. Teriyaki Salmon

Glaze with teriyaki sauce in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
These variations keep salmon exciting and expand your list of salmon dinner ideas.
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