Description
This easy air fryer salmon recipe delivers perfectly cooked, tender, and flaky salmon fillets in just minutes. Seasoned with a simple blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cooked skin-side down for crispy edges. Served with fresh lemon wedges and tartar sauce for a delicious, healthy meal ideal for busy weeknights or quick dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crispiness.
- Oil the fillets: Rub each salmon fillet evenly with olive oil, which will help the seasoning stick and promote browning.
- Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful spice blend.
- Season the salmon: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the salmon fillets to ensure balanced flavor.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Make sure the pieces are spaced apart and not touching for optimal air circulation.
- Cook the salmon: Air fry the salmon for 7–10 minutes, adjusting time based on thickness, until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve immediately: Remove the salmon carefully and serve hot with fresh lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side for added zest and creaminess.
Notes
- Cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets; thicker pieces may require closer to 10 minutes.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly score the salmon skin before cooking.
- The recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or meal prep.
- Use fresh lemon wedges right before serving to enhance the flavor without overpowering the salmon.
