Nothing quite beats a refreshing, light-flavored salmon fillet! The subtle flavorings of salmon make it a popular choice amongst diners that would instead steer clear of fish that would otherwise offer a dominant fishy taste. Our air fryer salmon recipe transforms this delicious, healthy fish into a no-stress weeknight meal that everyone will enjoy, guaranteed!
When it comes to salmon, there are plenty of ways to prepare it; whether it be grilled, smoked, fried, or poached, the process can affect both the flavor and be more challenging, depending on the method of cooking you choose.
Easy Air Fryer Salmon
Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces fillets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoons paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- lemon wedges for serving
- tartar sauce for serving
Supplies
- air fryer
- small bowl
Directions
Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Next, using your hands gently rub each salmon fillet with some olive oil and seasoning. Place the prepared fillets into the preheated air fryer, taking care not to overcrowd the basket so the salmon can air fry easily.
Air fry the fillets for approximately 9-12 minutes or until there is no red in the middle, and the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Please note, cooking time may vary between air fryers.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce! Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Learn how to make tartar sauce at home!
Air Frying Your Salmon Fillets
Our recipe utilizes a convenient no-flip technique made possible by the use of an air fryer. No flipping means no breakage and no splattering of hot oil. Your finished meal will resemble a restaurant-quality dinner, in a matter of minutes with our simple recipe.
To keep the salmon as the star of the show, we limited the use of several ingredients. This allows the subtle flavors of the fish to shine through.
We added olive oil to offer the salmon a lightly fried texture, on the top, as well as the bottom of the fillets. The paprika provides the tender, flakey salmon with a pleasant deep orange-red hue and sweet, mild flavor. The garlic and optional lemon wedges brighten without hiding the flavor of the salmon.
Simple Sides For Air Fryer Salmon
Our air fryer salmon recipe is so quick and easy; it will make salmon a weeknight staple! But don’t forget your side dishes! When you’re trying to keep things on the easier side, and you’re feeling stumped on what to serve with salmon, we have you covered!
- Keep it simple with creamy, healthy cauliflower mashed potatoes. Dress it up with different herbs, spices, and add-ins!
- Enjoy a classic pairing of salmon and roasted asparagus. Ramp up your roasted asparagus with a drizzle up some freshly-squeezed lemon juice or balsamic vinegar glaze!
- Make an extraordinary side salad to pair with your tender salmon fillets by topping your fresh greens with unique healthy salad toppings.
