Air Fryer Salmon
Learn how to cook perfect air fryer salmon with crispy skin and flaky, tender flesh using this comprehensive recipe guide. Discover the optimal temperature and timing for different salmon fillet sizes, plus seasoning variations and food safety guidelines. This method delivers restaurant-quality results in just 12 minutes, making it perfect for healthy weeknight dinners.
Achieve perfectly cooked salmon fillets with crispy skin and flaky, tender flesh using your air fryer. This foolproof method delivers restaurant-quality results in just 12 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (150-180g each), skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh dill or parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Check for any remaining pin bones and remove them. Let salmon come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
Season the Fillets
Brush both sides of salmon with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve crispy skin.
Cook the Salmon
Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes without flipping, depending on thickness.
Check for Doneness
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). The skin should be crispy.
Serve Immediately
Serve hot with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Perfect with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Pro Tips
- Don't Flip: Cook skin-side down for crispy skin and even cooking.
- Room Temperature: Let salmon warm up for more even cooking.
- Check Thickness: Thicker fillets need 1-2 extra minutes.
- Don't Overcook: Salmon continues cooking after removal.
Flavor Variations
Lemon Herb
Top with fresh dill, parsley, and lemon zest before cooking.
Asian Glazed
Brush with soy sauce, honey, and ginger glaze in the last 2 minutes.
Mediterranean
Season with oregano, basil, and serve with olive tapenade.
Cajun Spiced
Use Cajun seasoning blend for a spicy, flavorful crust.
Food Safety Guidelines
- • Cook salmon to an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F)
- • Use a meat thermometer for accurate temperature readings
- • Fresh salmon should be cooked within 1-2 days of purchase
- • Store leftover cooked salmon in the refrigerator within 2 hours
- • Consume leftover salmon within 3-4 days
Why Air Fryer Salmon is Perfect
Quick and Convenient
Air fryer salmon cooks in just 12 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. No need to heat up a large oven or worry about timing multiple dishes.
Crispy Skin Every Time
The air fryer's intense heat circulation creates perfectly crispy skin while keeping the flesh moist and flaky - something that's difficult to achieve with other methods.
Healthy Cooking Method
Air frying requires minimal oil while preserving the salmon's natural omega-3 fatty acids and nutrients. It's a heart-healthy way to prepare this nutritious fish.
Restaurant Quality Results
Achieve professional-level results at home with perfectly cooked salmon that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.