Our Air Fryer Salmon recipe is just what you need on a busy day when you crave something special yet simple.
We take fresh salmon, marinate it in a delicious lemon and garlic mixture, and air fry it to perfection, blending simple ingredients into a dish that's both easy and bursting with flavor.
Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Highlights
- Quick prep and cook time means delicious salmon in just 25 minutes.
- Minimal ingredients for a flavorful, no-fuss meal.
- Air frying creates a perfectly tender and crispy exterior.
- Healthy and nutritious option for any day of the week.
- Versatile serving possibilities to suit any taste.
Ingredient Notes
Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.
SALMON - This recipe requires High-quality fresh salmon. Its natural oils and flaky texture complement the seasoning and ensure a delicious result.
If fresh salmon is not available, frozen salmon from the grocery store can be substituted, but be sure to thaw it thoroughly before marinating. I used skin-on wild-caught salmon for this recipe, but you can also use skinless salmon filets.
LEMON PEPPER SEASONING - This blend of lemon zest, black pepper, and other spices adds flavor and depth to the salmon.
If you don't have lemon pepper seasoning, you can make homemade lemon pepper seasoning by combining lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and a pinch of garlic powder.
GARLIC POWDER - Provides a savory flavor and complements the lemon and pepper in the seasoning. You can use fresh minced garlic as a substitute, but make sure it's evenly distributed on the salmon.
LEMON - Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. If you're out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be used instead.
OLIVE OIL - Helps bind the seasoning to the salmon and adds moisture to it, which prevents the fish from drying out during cooking. Avocado oil, sesame oil, melted coconut oil, or melted butter can be used as alternatives for a slightly different flavor profile.
How To Make Air Fryer Salmon
Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
- Dry the salmon and season with lemon juice, oil, garlic powder, and lemon pepper.
- Place in the fridge for a minimum of 15 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375° Fahrenheit. Air fry the salmon for 10 minutes at 375º Fahrenheit.
- Rest salmon for a few minutes and serve with lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
VEGETABLES - Steamed, air-fried, or roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, or sweet potatoes make for a colorful and healthy addition.
CUCUMBER SALAD - A refreshing German Cucumber Salad, dressed lightly with lemon and herbs, cuts through the richness of the salmon, offering a crisp, hydrating side.
RICE - Adding Jasmine or Basmati is a great choice for a side dish. I know not everybody does, but I also like brown rice (Trader Joe's has frozen brown rice bags, which are my current obsession - don't judge before you have it). If you're feeling a bit more adventurous and have some extra time, serve the air-fried salmon with a side of my Mint and Feta Rice recipe.
POTATOES - A baked potato is a nice choice, but you can also try and mix things up with my Twice Baked Potato Casserole (which is to die for, if I may say so myself) or my Cheesy Potatoes. Lastly, and I don't quite get why this seems to only be a fall/winter option for a lot of people - do try my Mashed Sweet Potatoes. It's so darn delicious, but then I'm probably a bit biased.
Additions and Substitutions
- For added freshness, top the cooked salmon with red pepper flakes and chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill before serving.
- Experiment with different seasonings such as Cajun seasoning, paprika, or Italian herbs for a unique flavor profile.
- Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Serve your flaky salmon over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.
Planning and Leftovers
STORE - To store leftover lemon pepper salmon, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
FREEZE - For longer storage, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then freeze it for up to 2 months.
REHEAT - To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated air fryer oven at 325° Fahrenheit for 5-10 minutes or until the leftover salmon is heated through.
Recipe Success Tips
DRY - Believe it or not, this can make the difference between perfectly air-fried salmon and so-so salmon. So, make sure to pat the salmon dry before marinating. This will help the seasonings stick well to the surface of the fish.
MARINATE - Allow the salmon to marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the fish fully. Marinating for longer will intensify the flavor of your fish. You can even do this the night before.
AIR FRYER TIP #1 - Always preheat your air fryer. This helps to make sure that your salmon is deliciously flaky and juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
AIR FRYER TIP #2 - Cooking time will depend on the size and model of your air fryer and the thickness of the salmon.
AIR FRYER TIP #3 - Let the cooked salmon rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Just make sure that you cover it lightly with something like aluminum foil or a larger plate on top.
FLAVORS - Experiment with fresh herbs, different seasonings, sauces like lemon pepper sauce, and marinades to customize the flavor of the salmon according to your taste. Long-time readers know that I love salmon with just salt, pepper, and lots of smoked paprika.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly before marinating. To thaw frozen salmon, you can either place it in your fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water, changing the water periodically until it's thawed.
Can I cook the salmon in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 375° Fahrenheit for approximately 12-15 minutes. For even cooking, place the marinated salmon on a baking sheet or cast-iron skillet.
Baked Lemon Pepper Salmon is an easy way to enjoy this dish without an air fryer. Ensure the salmon skin is facing down, and adjust the bake times according to the thickness of the filets.
How can I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil before adding the salmon.
More Easy and Delicious Air Fryer Recipes
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Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
- 2 pound fresh salmon sliced in half
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lemon
- 1.5 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Dry the salmon fillets with a paper towel. This step is crucial for the seasoning to stick properly and for achieving a crispy exterior.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the salmon before brushing them with olive oil. Then brush on the olive oil and evenly sprinkle garlic powder and lemon pepper seasoning on top.
- Cover the salmon and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375° Fahrenheit.
- Place the salmon slices in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Make sure the salmon pieces don't overlap.
- Air fry at 375° Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. (*See Notes)
- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking. This short rest time allows the juices to redistribute, making the salmon even more moist and delicious. Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.