Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Once I discovered how truly remarkable salmon turns out in the air fryer, it didn’t just change our weekly meal rotation; it revolutionized it! Our “salmon nights,” especially on Thursdays, quickly became the most anticipated dinner of the week. Even my most discerning eater, who once eyed fish with suspicion, now eagerly looks forward to it. The air fryer works a culinary miracle, consistently delivering a texture that’s difficult to replicate using any other cooking method.

I genuinely believe the air fryer is the absolute best way to cook seafood, and this salmon recipe perfectly showcases why. It effortlessly creates that desirable crispy skin on the outside while keeping the inside unbelievably tender and flaky – practically melting in your mouth with every bite. Salmon is a weekly staple in our household not just because it’s a healthy choice packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids, but also because it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare. It’s a lifesaver on those chaotic evenings when homework, extracurricular activities, and life’s unexpected challenges pile up. To elevate the experience, I often serve this salmon with a side of my favorite Creamy Dill Sauce – the flavors complement each other beautifully.

What I particularly love about salmon is its inherent deliciousness; it doesn’t require an elaborate marinade or a complex glaze to shine. With just a few staple seasonings from your pantry, you can transform fresh fillets into a restaurant-quality dish. Friends and family will be convinced you spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, it took mere minutes! My grandmother always said that the simplest ingredients often create the most memorable meals, and that timeless wisdom holds true every single time I prepare this dish.

If you’ve fallen in love with cooking seafood in your air fryer as much as we have, you absolutely must try my air fryer tilapia or this fantastic air fryer cod. Both are quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful options that have earned a permanent spot in our family’s meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Salmon

Crafting perfectly cooked air fryer salmon requires just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple seasonings. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the delicious flavor and texture of this easy weeknight meal.

• Salmon fillets: For the best results, I always recommend choosing fresh, wild-caught salmon when possible. Look for fillets that are about 1-inch thick, as this ensures even cooking and a juicy result. The vibrant coral color is a good indicator of quality and promises those wonderful, health-boosting omega-3s.
• Olive oil: Just a touch of good quality olive oil is essential. It acts as a binder for the spices, ensuring they adhere beautifully to the fish. More importantly, it infuses a rich flavor into the salmon while helping to achieve that wonderfully crisp exterior that my family absolutely adores.
• Dill weed: This classic herb adds a bright, slightly tangy, and herbaceous flavor that is a perfect match for seafood. Whether you’re using fresh dill from your garden or dried dill from your spice rack, its distinctive taste will elevate your salmon.
• Oregano: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, oregano introduces a subtle earthy and aromatic note that beautifully complements the natural richness of the salmon, adding depth to the flavor profile.
• Garlic powder: This provides a savory depth of flavor that enhances the delicate taste of the fish without being overpowering. It also saves you the time and effort of mincing fresh garlic, making this recipe even quicker.
• Salt and Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are vital for bringing out the natural flavors of the salmon and the other herbs. Adjust to your personal preference.
• Fresh parsley: Once your salmon is cooked, a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley acts as a fantastic garnish. It not only adds a burst of bright color, making your weeknight meal feel special, but also a fresh, clean flavor.
• Lemon wedges: In my opinion, fresh lemon juice is one of the best companions for salmon. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the fish, enhancing and brightening the overall flavor profile. Always serve with extra wedges for squeezing!

Please see the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts and detailed instructions.

How to Make This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Cooking salmon in the air fryer is incredibly straightforward, guaranteeing a perfect result every time. Follow these simple steps for a quick and delicious meal:

Step 5: Season the Salmon. Generously spread the prepared spice rub evenly over the top and sides of the salmon fillets, gently pressing the seasonings into the flesh. This small moment of care ensures that every bite will be perfectly seasoned and flavorful.

Step 6: Place in Air Fryer. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. It’s crucial to ensure there’s enough space between the fillets to allow hot air to circulate freely around them, which promotes even cooking and that desirable crispy texture. Do not overcrowd the basket; if necessary, cook in batches.

Step 7: Air Fry the Salmon. Cook the salmon in the air fryer for 10 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the specific model of your air fryer. Always check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part with a meat thermometer, and that the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve. Once cooked, carefully remove the tender salmon fillets from the air fryer. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, healthy, and delicious meal!

Expert Tips for Making Perfect Air Fryer Salmon

• Choose Evenly Cut Fillets: When selecting your salmon, aim for fillets that are similar in thickness. This might seem minor, but it’s incredibly important for uniform cooking. Unevenly cut pieces will result in some parts being perfectly cooked while others are overdone or undercooked. I learned this the hard way after a dinner where one piece was divine and the other, sadly, dry!
• Experiment with Spices: While the dill, oregano, and garlic powder rub is a classic and delicious choice, don’t hesitate to experiment! Spices are your secret weapon for taking your air fryer salmon to the next level. Consider a sprinkle of smoky paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick, a dash of Italian seasoning for an herbal twist, or even a unique blend like za’atar. For a delightful sweet and savory glaze, try brushing your salmon with a mixture of brown sugar and soy sauce halfway through cooking.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: This is a golden rule for air frying, especially for salmon. Overcrowding your air fryer basket restricts the crucial hot air circulation, which is essential for achieving that desirable crispy skin and even cooking. If you’re cooking for more than two people, it’s always better to cook your salmon in two separate batches. Patience truly yields perfection when it comes to air frying!
• Always Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with a traditional oven, preheating your air fryer is a non-negotiable step. A preheated air fryer ensures that your salmon begins cooking immediately upon entering the basket, quickly crisping the exterior and sealing in moisture to keep the inside wonderfully tender. Those few minutes of preheating truly make all the difference in texture and taste.
• Pat Dry, Pat Dry, Pat Dry! I cannot stress this enough. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Before applying any oil or seasoning, use paper towels to thoroughly pat down your salmon fillets. Removing excess surface moisture ensures a superior crispy skin.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The most reliable way to ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked (not undercooked, not overcooked) is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fillet. Salmon is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Let it Rest: Just like with other proteins, allowing your salmon to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking can help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more moist and tender fillet.

Serving Tips for Air Fryer Salmon

Once your air fryer salmon is perfectly cooked, the possibilities for creating a complete and satisfying meal are endless! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this versatile fish:

• Fresh Salads: Salads are an excellent pairing with the richness of salmon. The fresh crispness and vibrant flavors of a good salad perfectly balance the tender, flaky fish. I particularly enjoy this Mediterranean bean salad or a zesty lemon arugula salad. A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette also works beautifully.
• Wholesome Side Dishes: For those who love to pair their salmon with cooked vegetables, you’re in luck! Try these flavorful Lebanese green beans, aromatic turmeric roasted cauliflower, or a medley of Mediterranean roasted vegetables. Steamed asparagus, broccoli, or sautéed spinach are also fantastic, healthy choices.
• Comforting Potatoes: There’s something undeniably magical about how crispy potatoes complement tender salmon. Consider serving your air fryer salmon with roasted baby potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, or even crispy smashed potatoes. Sweet potato fries or a baked sweet potato also offer a delicious and nutritious alternative.
• Hearty Grains: To create a truly complete and satisfying meal, serve your perfectly cooked salmon over a bed of fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or couscous. These grains are excellent at soaking up all the delicious juices and seasonings from the fish. You can even transform it into a vibrant “salmon bowl” by adding some roasted vegetables and a drizzle of a tahini-lemon sauce. On busy weeknights, I often prep my grains in advance – a little meal prep goes a long way in making dinner time more enjoyable and significantly less stressful!
• Complementary Sauces: While the salmon is flavorful on its own, a complementary sauce can elevate the dish. Beyond the Creamy Dill Sauce, consider a simple lemon-butter sauce, a fresh pesto, or even a light teriyaki glaze.

Storage & Reheating Air Fryer Salmon

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your delicious air fryer salmon even after the first meal:

• Storage: Store any leftover air fryer salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to 1 month. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: To preserve the salmon’s delicate texture and prevent it from drying out, I highly recommend reheating it slowly in the oven. Place the leftover fish on a baking sheet and warm it in a 275°F (135°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). The low and slow approach ensures the salmon warms through without becoming tough. I learned the hard way that microwave reheating is often the enemy of good salmon, making it rubbery and less flavorful!
• Leftover Ideas: Don’t let those delicious leftovers go to waste! Flaked salmon makes a wonderful addition to a quick breakfast scramble, a nutritious lunch salad, or even a flavorful salmon cake. You can also mix it into pasta dishes, wraps, or create easy salmon sandwiches.