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A quick, healthy, and delicious salmon recipe cooked in the air fryer resulting in crispy edges and tender, flaky inside. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep, featuring simple seasonings and flexible flavor variations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off depending on your preference
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (optional).
  3. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each salmon fillet and drizzle with lemon juice.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or brush the fillets with a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket, leaving at least 1/2 inch of space between pieces.
  7. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes (add 3–5 minutes for frozen or thicker fillets) until the salmon flakes easily.
  8. If using honey- or soy-based glazes, brush them on during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking to avoid burning.
  9. Check doneness by measuring an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or ensuring the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  10. Allow the salmon to rest 2–3 minutes after cooking.
  11. Garnish the cooked salmon with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Patting the salmon dry before seasoning helps create a crispy exterior., Preheat the air fryer for even cooking and better texture., Space fillets to allow hot air circulation for crispiness., Cooking skin-side down protects the flesh and helps prevent sticking., Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture; salmon flakes easily when done., Apply glazes late in cooking to prevent burning., Rest the salmon after cooking to keep juices inside., Stored cooked salmon lasts up to 3 days in the fridge and 2 months in the freezer., Reheat salmon in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes for best results.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mamapantry.com/why-you-need-to-try-air-fryer-salmon-2/