Perfectly tender, flaky salmon with a beautifully crisp exterior, ready to be paired with your favorite sides for a wholesome, hassle-free dinner.
When you're short on time but still want a healthy, flavorful meal, air fryer baked salmon is the perfect solution. This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. There's no need to hover over a stove or spend extra time prepping—simply season the salmon with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of oil, pop it in the air fryer, and dinner is ready.
Ingredients:
- (4) 7 oz salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of one fresh lemon
- Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
Total Time: 12-15 minutes
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and gives the salmon a better texture.
Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with avocado oil. Then, season evenly with salt and black pepper.
Grate fresh lemon zest over the fillets, distributing it evenly for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Place the fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, in a single layer to allow proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the salmon reaches 145°F for safe consumption.
Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the top before enjoying.
Variations
- Enhance the seasoning with herbs and spices like dill, garlic powder, or paprika.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon
Air fryer salmon pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:
- Try air-fried or oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for a simple and flavorful pairing.
- Pair with Sautéed green beans with garlic and a touch of butter add a fresh, crisp contrast.
- A light, refreshing salad with olive oil, lemon, and feta cheese.
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Air Fryer French Fries or Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 7 oz salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of one fresh lemon
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick and gives the salmon a better texture.
- Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with avocado oil. Then, season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Grate fresh lemon zest over the fillets, distributing it evenly for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Place the fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, in a single layer to allow proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the salmon reaches 145°F for safe consumption.
- Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the top before enjoying.
Notes
Variations
- Enhance the seasoning with herbs and spices like dill, garlic powder, or paprika.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon
Air fryer salmon pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:- Try air-fried or oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for a simple and flavorful pairing.
- Pair with Sautéed green beans with garlic and a touch of butter add a fresh, crisp contrast.
- A light, refreshing salad with olive oil, lemon, and feta cheese.
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- Air Fryer French Fries or Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
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