Quick and Crispy Air Fryer Salmon for Busy Weeknights

This Air Fryer Salmon is a quick, healthy dinner option ready in under 15 minutes, featuring a crispy exterior and tender, flaky fish.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings: 2 fillets

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

2 fillets Salmon Fillets skin-on for moisture retention
1 tablespoon Olive Oil can substitute with avocado oil

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh garlic for a more intense flavor
1 teaspoon Paprika or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper or white pepper for a milder taste
1 teaspoon Onion Powder or shallot powder as an alternative
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper optional for heat

For Brightness

1 tablespoon Lemon Juice or lime juice as a substitute

For Garnish

2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley or dill/chives

Equipment

Air Fryer

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Salmon

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Rub the seasoning mixture generously over the salmon fillets.
Drizzle fresh lemon juice over seasoned salmon and let sit for a few minutes.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket skin-side down.
Cook the salmon for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 280kcalProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Experiment with different seasonings or marinades for a twist on the flavor.

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