Air Fryer Salmon Crispy Tender (Printable version)
Crispy, juicy salmon ready in 15 minutes with a zesty lemon garlic spice rub
# Ingredient list:
→ Fish
01 - 2 salmon fillets (each 6-7 oz, skin-on or skinless)
→ Marinade & Seasoning
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
08 - 1 teaspoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
→ To Serve
09 - Lemon wedges
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
02 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
03 - In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
04 - Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all surfaces of the salmon fillets.
05 - Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
06 - Cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
07 - Transfer to plates, garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired, and serve with lemon wedges.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The seasoning creates this beautiful caramelized exterior that my family swears came from a restaurant kitchen
- Fifteen minutes from fridge to plate means I can actually eat something good on busy weeknights
02 -
- I once skipped patting the salmon dry and ended up with steamed fish instead of that lovely slightly crisped exterior
- Overcooking happens faster than you expect, so I start checking at the seven minute mark even if the fillets look thick
03 -
- Room temperature salmon cooks more evenly than cold from the fridge
- Let the fish rest for two minutes after cooking for juicier results