Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

Air frying salmon is a quick, healthy, and convenient way to get tender, flaky fish with a perfectly crisp exterior. Depending on the seasoning or marinade, you can make it sweet, savory, spicy, or tangy. These recipes assume salmon fillets are about 6 ounces each.

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Basic Instructions for Air Frying Salmon

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures better browning.
3. Lightly Oil or Spray: Brush the salmon with 1 teaspoon of olive oil per fillet or spray lightly with cooking spray. This keeps the fish moist and prevents sticking.
4. Season or Marinate: Choose your flavor profile (see recipes below).
5. Air Fry: Place salmon skin-side down (if skin is on) in the basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes depending on thickness. Check for doneness; salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach 125–130°F (51–54°C) for medium doneness.
6. Rest: Let salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving.

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1. Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets.
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
4. Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

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2. Honey Soy Glazed Salmon

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and garlic.
2. Brush or marinate salmon for 15–20 minutes.
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

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3. Cajun Spiced Salmon

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine spices in a small bowl.
2. Rub olive oil over the salmon and coat evenly with the spice mix.
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes.
4. Serve with a wedge of lime and steamed vegetables.

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4. Maple Dijon Salmon

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix Dijon mustard, maple syrup, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush over the salmon fillets.
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
4. Serve with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

• Do not overcrowd: Leave space between fillets for even air circulation.
• Check internal temperature: Aim for 125–130°F (51–54°C) for medium; salmon will continue to cook slightly while resting.
• Skin-on fillets: Crispy skin is achieved by placing skin-side down. If skinless, lightly oil to prevent sticking.
• Marinate wisely: Acidic marinades (lemon, vinegar, soy sauce) should not exceed 30 minutes to avoid “cooking” the salmon before air frying.
• Add veggies: For a complete meal, air fry vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers alongside salmon at the same temperature, adjusting cooking times slightly.

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Optional Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice or quinoa with a drizzle of extra sauce.
• Pair with roasted or air-fried vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
• Top with fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or dill) for added freshness.
• Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for bright flavor before serving.