Easy Weeknight Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Air fryer salmon is a game-changer for quick, healthy meals with minimal effort. The fillets cook to perfection—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside—all in under 10 minutes. With a flavorful herb seasoning, this dish is simple yet delicious.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Whether you prefer your salmon with skin on for extra crispiness or without for a smooth texture, the air fryer locks in moisture while enhancing the seasoning. Serve it with hearty grains like quinoa or brown rice and fresh greens for a balanced meal.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a nutritious lunch, this air fryer salmon requires just a handful of ingredients and delivers gourmet results. The blend of salt, pepper, herbs, and garlic elevates the natural richness of the fish, making every bite irresistible.
Air Fryer Salmon: Essential Ingredients
Salmon Fillets – The star of the dish, these tender, protein-rich fillets cook to perfection in the air fryer, developing a crispy exterior while staying moist and flaky inside.
Mixed Herbs – A fragrant blend that enhances the salmon’s natural richness, adding depth and a touch of earthiness to every bite.
Garlic Granules (Optional) – Infuses a warm, savory aroma, complementing the fish’s delicate flavor with a subtle yet irresistible kick.
Olive Oil – A light drizzle ensures a golden, crisp finish while sealing in moisture for a succulent texture.
Air Fryer Salmon: Expert Tips, Serving Suggestions & FAQs
Air fryer salmon is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort. With the perfect balance of seasoning and a crisp exterior, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. To enhance your cooking experience, here are some expert tips, serving ideas, and answers to common questions.
Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Salmon
For the best results, opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with even thickness. This ensures uniform cooking, preventing thinner edges from drying out while the center cooks through. If using frozen fillets, thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to achieve a crispier texture. - Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer
To allow proper air circulation, place the fillets in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and a lack of crispiness. If cooking for a larger group, prepare the salmon in batches for the best texture and flavor. - Check for Doneness Correctly
The easiest way to check if your salmon is fully cooked is by using a fork—if it flakes easily, it’s ready. Alternatively, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium and 145°F (63°C) for well-done. Let the fillets rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to retain moisture.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon
- Garlic Butter Asparagus
A side of asparagus sautéed in garlic butter adds a deliciously crisp and savory contrast to the flaky salmon. The combination enhances the dish with a bright, fresh element, making it both well-balanced and satisfying. - Lemon Herb Quinoa
Quinoa cooked with fresh lemon juice and chopped herbs creates a light yet hearty accompaniment. Its slightly nutty taste pairs beautifully with the salmon’s richness, adding both protein and texture to the meal. - Roasted Sweet Potatoes
For a touch of natural sweetness, serve the salmon with roasted sweet potatoes. Their caramelized edges and soft interior bring warmth and depth to the dish, complementing the herbaceous seasoning of the fish.
FAQ
1. Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Skin-on salmon crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, adding extra texture. If you prefer a softer bite, you can remove the skin before or after cooking.
2. How do I prevent my salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly brushing the basket with oil or using parchment paper prevents sticking while still allowing air circulation for a crispy finish.
3. Can I marinate the salmon before air frying?
Absolutely! A simple marinade of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs enhances the flavor. Just be sure to pat the fillets dry before air frying to maintain crispiness.
4. How long does leftover air fryer salmon last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 3-4 minutes to maintain texture.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked air fryer salmon with these expert tips and serving ideas!
Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets each approximately 130g, with or without skin
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp mixed herbs
- 1 tsp garlic granules optional
- Cooked seasonal greens and grains such as quinoa or brown rice for serving (optional)
- Method
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, mixed herbs, and garlic granules, if using. Spread the seasoning blend onto a plate. Lightly coat each salmon fillet with olive oil, then roll them in the seasoning mixture to ensure an even coating.
- Step 2
- Arrange the fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook at 180°C for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. For larger fillets, additional cooking time may be required—check for doneness after 10 minutes and continue in 1-2 minute increments if necessary.
