Air Fryer Salmon is a quick and nutritious way to prepare perfectly seared fillets with tender, flaky centers. It’s ready in just 10 minutes with minimal cleanup.

This low-carb, low-calorie entree brings bold seasoning and rich omega-3s to the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike.

Flavorful Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon

Salmon fillets – The star of the dish, rich in healthy fats and perfect for air frying thanks to their natural oils.
Olive oil – Helps crisp the edges while keeping the salmon moist inside.
Garlic powder – Adds a warm, savory aroma that complements the fish.
Paprika – Brings color and a subtle smokiness for depth of flavor.
Salt – Essential for enhancing the natural taste of the salmon.
Black pepper – Provides a mild heat and balances the richness.
Lemon wedges – Served on the side for a bright, acidic finish.
Tartar sauce – Optional but classic; adds creamy contrast to the flaky fish.

Quick and Delicious Air Fryer Salmon Steps

Preheat the air fryer and season the salmon with oil and spices. Air fry the fillets at 400°F for 7 to 9 minutes until flaky. Adjust time based on thickness and air fryer model.

Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Salmon

For extra crispy edges, pat the salmon dry before seasoning. Using skin-on fillets helps lock in moisture and prevents overcooking. A spritz of lemon juice after cooking elevates the flavor with fresh acidity.

How to Store Leftover Air Fryer Salmon

Refrigerate cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to avoid drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning for best texture.

How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque in the center.

Do I need to flip the salmon in the air fryer?
No flipping is necessary; the circulating air cooks it evenly on all sides.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card or nutritional details added!

Air Fryer Salmon

A streamlined, health-conscious method for preparing salmon, this air fryer recipe delivers perfectly crisped edges and a moist, delicate center. With minimal preparation and a brief cook time, it’s an ideal choice for a nutritious entrée ready in just 10 minutes.

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 2

Cook Time: 8

Ingredients

½ teaspoon ground black pepper
4 salmon fillets 6 ounces each
Lemon wedges for garnish
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Tartar sauce for serving

Instructions

Set the air fryer to preheat at 400°F. While it heats, gently coat each salmon portion with olive oil and uniformly apply the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once preheated, arrange the fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap, and cook for 7 to 9 minutes, adjusting for thickness. Check the doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part—if needed, return to the air fryer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to reach preferred texture.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate cooked salmon in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for a maximum of 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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How to Make Air Fryer Salmon