Air Fryer Salmon in 10 Minutes: The Ultimate Dinner Solution!
This air fryer salmon recipe is a fast and convenient way to enjoy a delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and less than 10 minutes of cooking time, you can serve up a flavorful dish that pleases everyone at the table.
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This air fryer salmon recipe proves how easy it is to cook seafood at home. The air fryer cooks the salmon fast and locks in the moisture so it’s flaky fish with crispy skin. The contrast between the crispy outside and tender inside is a seafood lover’s dream.
Minimal prep and quick cooking time makes this perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It goes great with roasted veggies, a fresh salad or your favorite sides so it’s a versatile and delicious meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets: For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh salmon fillets. Look for fillets that are bright in color and moist. Wild-caught salmon typically has a richer flavor than farmed varieties, making it an excellent choice for this recipe.
Lemon Zest: I like to keep the seasoning simple and highlight the salmon’s natural richness with fresh lemon zest. It adds a bright, aromatic note that perfectly complements the fish, elevating the overall flavor profile without overpowering it.
See the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients and quantities.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with oil. Season the fillets with salt and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the salmon fillets.
Step 2: Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down.
Step 3: Cook the salmon in the air fryer for 7-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145℉ and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Expert Tips
- Before seasoning, always pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
- The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. Thicker fillets may require slightly more cooking time, while thinner fillets might cook faster.
- Preheating the air fryer is important to ensure even and consistent cooking.
- Wrap leftover air fryer salmon tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course: Serve this baked salmon with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice. Pair it with a Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, and pita bread for a Mediterranean twist. You can also create an Asian-inspired meal by serving it alongside stir-fried broccoli and a sweet and sour sauce.
- Appetizer and Salad: Cut the salmon into small pieces and serve with crackers or crusty bread to turn it into salmon bites. Incorporate air-fried salmon into salads for a refreshing meal.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Cooked salmon can be used to make a sandwich or wrap for a quick meal. Try a salmon BLT by substituting cooked salmon for bacon, or fill a tortilla wrap with salmon, avocado, lettuce, and a creamy dressing for a satisfying lunch.
More Air Fryer Recipes
- This Salmon & White Bean Salad is light, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Air-fried salmon, beans, fresh veggies, and a tangy lemon dressing – what’s not to love? Perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner.
- Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside—air fryer jacket potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Simple to make and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion.
- Spice up your dinner routine with these easy air fryer chicken fajitas! Ready in under 30 minutes, this kid-friendly recipe is perfect for busy nights. Don’t forget the warm tortillas and toppings!
- These air fryer BBQ chicken legs are not only crispy and delicious but also a breeze to make. Enjoy a smoky flavor that will leave you craving more—all in a fraction of the time!
- From side dish goals to snack perfection, these air fryer garlic mushrooms deliver big flavor with minimal effort! Ready in under 10 minutes, they’re a versatile addition to your meal plan—serve them with steak, on toast, or as a standalone treat!
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 7 oz salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon zested
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400℉ for 5 minutes.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Brush both sides of the salmon fillets with oil. Season the fillets with salt and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated. Grate the zest from the fresh lemon over the salmon fillets.
- Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down.
- Cook the salmon in the air fryer for 7-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145℉ and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the air fryer salmon with fresh lemon wedges.
Notes
- The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets. Thicker fillets may require slightly more cooking time, while thinner fillets might cook faster.
- Preheating the air fryer is important to ensure even and consistent cooking.
Nutrition
