Name: Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 filets salmon (6 oz each); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1.5 teaspoons dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon lemon juice (plus lemon wedges to serve); 1 lemon zest (reserve to garnish); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt; 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, look no further than this Air Fryer Salmon Recipe. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also cooks to perfection in your air fryer, resulting in tender, flaky salmon with a deliciously crispy exterior. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of this Air Fryer Salmon Recipe lies in the even cooking and the ability to achieve that coveted crispy texture without the need for excess oil. The air fryer circulates hot air around the salmon, ensuring it cooks uniformly and stays moist. The combination of dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder creates a flavorful marinade that enhances the natural taste of the salmon. Plus, with the air fryer, you can prepare this dish in less than 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for any day of the week.

Shopping List

4 salmon filets (6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons dijon mustard
Zest from 1 lemon (reserve to garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (plus lemon wedges to serve)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Parsley (for garnish, optional)

Toolbox for This Recipe

Air Fryer: The star of the show, allowing for quick and efficient cooking.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
Cooking Spray: Optional, to help prevent sticking.
Spatula: To carefully flip the salmon if needed.

Build Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. This marinade will enhance the flavor of your salmon and create a wonderful crust when cooked.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon filets in the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 10 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can marinate it for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

While the salmon is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is key to achieving that crispy exterior.

Step 4: Arrange the Salmon in the Air Fryer

Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray (if desired). Carefully place the salmon filets in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece for even cooking.

Step 5: Air Fry the Salmon

Cook the salmon in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the filets and your desired doneness. The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork when done.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with lemon zest and chopped parsley, if using. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

For a gluten-free option, ensure the dijon mustard is gluten-free.
Replace olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor and similar health benefits.
If you’re allergic to mustard, substitute with a mixture of yogurt and lemon juice for creaminess.

Behind the Recipe

This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe is inspired by the desire for healthy yet flavorful meals that fit into a busy lifestyle. Salmon is known for its high omega-3 fatty acid content, making it one of the healthiest fish options available. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the salmon’s natural flavors to shine through, while the air fryer makes it easy to achieve that perfect texture without the fuss of traditional cooking methods.

Save It for Later

If you love this Air Fryer Salmon Recipe, make sure to bookmark it or save it to your recipe collection. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to a fresh salad. You can even try it with different marinades or toppings, like a Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon With Lemon Cream or a delicious Sticky Honey Soy Salmon Rice Bowl for a change of pace.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking. Cooking time may need to be slightly adjusted if the salmon is still icy.

What should I serve with air fryer salmon?

This salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with quinoa, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad. For a comforting option, try it with Creamy Cajun Salmon And Spinach Orzo.

How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I marinate the salmon overnight?

While marinating overnight is possible, it’s best to limit marinating to 30 minutes to 1 hour to prevent the salmon from becoming too mushy. The flavors will still be great, even with a shorter marination time.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tools and steps to create this Air Fryer Salmon Recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this salmon dish is sure to delight. The combination of flavors and the ease of cooking will have you reaching for your air fryer time and time again. Happy cooking!