Air-Fryer Salmon

Air-fryer salmon with garlic, lemon, and spices is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, this salmon is perfect for weeknight meals and pairs well with vegetables, rice, or salad.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp lemon zest
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme or za’atar
• ¼ tsp ground cumin
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on (or one 1 ½ pound fillet, cut into 4 equal pieces)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, grated garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme or za’atar, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Prep the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry on all sides.
2. Add the salmon to the marinade and turn each piece to coat evenly.

Air Fry the Salmon

1. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
2. Cook until the edges begin to brown and the fish is cooked through:
   • Thicker fillets: 8–10 minutes
   • Thinner fillets: 5–7 minutes

Rest the Salmon

• Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air-fryer salmon is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and infused with bold flavors from garlic, lemon, and spices. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a convenient and healthy weeknight dinner option.

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Tips

• Pat Dry: Ensures the salmon gets a slightly crispy exterior.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
• Check Doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist inside.
• Resting: Allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor and tenderness.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spices: Swap thyme or za’atar for dill, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
• Citrus: Use orange or lime zest for a different flavor profile.
• Oil: Avocado or grapeseed oil can replace olive oil for higher smoke point.
• Fillets: Can use skinless salmon fillets, but reduce cooking time slightly.

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FAQs

Q: Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes. Increase the cooking time slightly and check for doneness.

Q: How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Q: Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?
Yes, marinate for 15–30 minutes for best flavor. Avoid over-marinating as citrus can begin to “cook” the fish.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt-dill sauce.
• Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water for a complete meal.