air fryer salmon recipe
The Best air fryer salmon recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with just about anything—a simple side salad, roasted veggies, or even over rice if you’re feeling fancy. It’s light enough for a quick weeknight dinner but still feels special enough for company. Plus, salmon is packed with omega-3s and protein, so I never feel guilty about serving it to my family. The air fryer does all the work, so there’s no standing over a hot stove or dealing with a messy pan. It’s one of those rare recipes that checks all the boxes: fast, healthy, and actually delicious.
Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
This air fryer salmon recipe delivers perfectly crispy skin and tender flesh in minutes. Paired with a bright lemon-dill sauce, it’s a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp water (to thin if needed)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer. -
2
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Rub the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, including the skin. -
3
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. -
4
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 6-8 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the skin is crispy. -
5
While the salmon cooks, prepare the lemon-dill sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt. Add water if needed to reach your desired consistency. -
6
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer using tongs. Serve immediately with the lemon-dill sauce drizzled on top or on the side.
🔧Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Small whisk or fork
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Paper towels
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
1. How long should I cook salmon in the air fryer?
The cooking time for salmon in an air fryer typically ranges from 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. For a standard 1-inch thick fillet, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. Thinner fillets may only need 6-8 minutes, while thicker cuts could take up to 14 minutes. Always check for doneness—salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
2. Do I need to flip the salmon while air frying?
No, you do not need to flip salmon in the air fryer. The hot air circulates evenly, cooking the fish thoroughly without flipping. However, if your fillet is very thick (over 1.5 inches), you can flip it halfway for more even browning. For most recipes, simply place the salmon skin-side down (if it has skin) and let it cook undisturbed.
3. What’s the best seasoning for air fryer salmon?
The best seasoning depends on your taste, but a simple and flavorful option is a mix of olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice. For extra flavor, try:
– Lemon-herb: Dried dill, parsley, or thyme with lemon zest.
– Spicy: Paprika, cayenne, or Cajun seasoning.
– Asian-inspired: Soy sauce, honey, ginger, and sesame oil.
– Honey-mustard: Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
Brush the salmon lightly with oil before seasoning to help the spices stick.
4. Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen salmon in the air fryer, but it requires a few adjustments. First, thaw the salmon slightly (if possible) or rinse it under cold water to remove ice crystals. Pat it dry, then season as usual. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-16 minutes, checking for doneness after 10 minutes. Frozen salmon may take 2-4 minutes longer than fresh, so monitor it closely to avoid overcooking.
5. How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
To prevent sticking, follow these tips:
– Use parchment paper with holes (or a perforated air fryer liner) to allow airflow while keeping the salmon from sticking.
– Lightly grease the basket with oil, even if using non-stick spray.
– Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
– Avoid overcrowding—leave space between fillets for air circulation.
– Let the salmon rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking before removing it from the basket. If it sticks slightly, use a thin spatula to gently lift it.
