If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious way to prepare salmon, these Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Fillets are a game-changer! With a perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh, this recipe comes together in just 17 minutes making it perfect for busy weeknights or an effortless gourmet meal. The air fryer locks in all the moisture while creating a beautifully crisp exterior, giving you restaurant-quality salmon with minimal effort.
Seasoned simply with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, this dish lets the natural flavors of the salmon shine while adding a zesty touch of fresh lemon. Whether you serve it over a salad, alongside roasted veggies, or with a side of rice, this salmon is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Plus, with easy cleanup and no need to turn on the oven, you’ll love how convenient this air fryer recipe is!
Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Fillets
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 lemon, half for seasoning and half for serving
Optional garnish: fresh dill or parsley
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Instructions:
1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
2. Rub each fillet with olive oil on all sides.
3. Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Squeeze half a lemon over the fillets.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
6. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. No need to flip!
For thin fillets (1-inch): cook for 10 minutes
For thicker fillets (1.5-inch): cook for 12 minutes
7. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Cooking Tips:
Don’t skip patting the salmon dry – this ensures crispy skin
Always place salmon skin-side down in the air fryer
Don’t overcrowd the basket; leave space between fillets
No need to preheat the air fryer for longer than 3 minutes
Let salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking
Serving suggestions:
Serve with fresh lemon wedges
Garnish with fresh herbs
Pairs well with roasted vegetables or a light salad
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes
Note:
The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your salmon fillets. Always check for doneness by looking for flaky, opaque flesh.
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