Description
Crispy golden salmon fillets from the air fryer promise a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dinner that’s quick and healthy. Herb-infused, perfectly flaky fish emerges with minimal effort, offering you a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 salmon fillets (fresh or thawed, skin-on preferred)
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the air fryer by heating it to 400°F (200°C) for a crisp, even cooking environment, allowing the appliance to warm up for approximately 3 minutes.
- Meticulously dry the salmon fillets using a clean paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring optimal seasoning adherence and a beautifully crisp exterior.
- Coat the salmon thoroughly with olive oil, creating a light, even layer that will help the spices cling and promote a golden, appetizing finish.
- Generously sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper across both sides of the fillets, massaging the spices gently to distribute them evenly and enhance the flavor profile.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the seasoned salmon, adding a bright, zesty note that will complement the rich fish and cut through its natural oils.
- Carefully position the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation and uniform cooking.
- Cook the salmon for 7-10 minutes, adjusting the time based on the thickness of the fillets and desired doneness level.
- Monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer: aim for 125-130°F for a medium texture or 145°F for a well-done preparation.
- Once cooked, gently transfer the salmon to a serving plate, allowing it to rest for a moment to retain its juices.
- Enhance the presentation by garnishing with additional lemon wedges or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, creating a visually appealing and flavorful dish ready to be enjoyed immediately.
Notes
- Always pat salmon dry before seasoning to ensure crispy exterior and prevent steaming.
- Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness; thinner cuts need less time to prevent overcooking.
- Use minimal seasoning to let salmon’s natural flavor shine through without overwhelming the fish.
- Experiment with different herb and spice combinations like dill, cajun seasoning, or chili flakes for variety.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 358
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg