Name: How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. salmon, cut into 4 fillets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; Homemade 5-minute lemon dill sauce; Sliced lemons; Fresh dill, chopped

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If you’re looking for a super quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that feels special but takes no time at all, you’ve got to try this How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer Recipe. The perfect blend of crispy edges and tender, juicy inside, this method uses simple seasonings that bring out the best in fresh salmon. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you just want to impress without the fuss. Trust me, once you master this technique, the air fryer will be your new best friend for fish dinner nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Four pieces of raw salmon with a bright orange color and visible texture lines are neatly laid out on brown parchment paper. To the left, three yellow lemon slices are placed on the white marbled surface. Above the salmon, there are three small white bowls: one contains a mix of spices in red, green, and beige colors; another holds a light yellow liquid, likely oil; and the third bowl on the left has finely chopped green herbs. Below and to the right of the salmon, a small wooden bowl contains a dollop of light yellow mustard. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible salmon flavor and texture. The combination of spices, mustard, and olive oil not only enhances the taste but also helps lock in moisture while cooking.

1 lb. salmon, cut into 4 fillets: Choose fresh or thawed salmon with skin removed for even cooking and easy seasoning absorption.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds healthy fats and helps the seasoning stick while promoting a crispy finish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a savory, warm note without overpowering the delicate fish.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Offers a tangy kick that complements salmon’s natural richness.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that adds depth and an aromatic herbaceous touch.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a mild smoky sweetness for visual appeal and flavor contrast.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
Fresh cracked pepper: For a touch of heat and aromatic complexity.
Homemade 5-minute lemon dill sauce: Brightens the dish and complements the salmon with freshness.
Sliced lemons + fresh dill for serving: Classic garnishes that elevate the look and add zesty herbal notes.

How to Make How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Seasoning

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, and a couple of good pinches of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper in a small bowl. This marinade mixes tanginess, warmth, and herbaceous goodness that will thoroughly flavor the salmon.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Drizzle the seasoned oil mixture over your salmon fillets, making sure each piece gets a beautiful, even coating. This step is key because it helps the spices stick and creates that perfect crust once air fried. Then, place the salmon fillets carefully onto the air fryer tray or basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Cook the salmon at 400 degrees for 10 minutes total. The air fryer’s circulating hot air crisps up the exterior while locking in the juice inside, so you get tender flakes that fall apart effortlessly with a fork. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid overcooking — perfectly cooked salmon is flaky yet moist!

Step 4: Finish with Lemon Dill Sauce and Garnishes

Once cooked, serve your salmon with a generous spoonful of the homemade 5-minute lemon dill sauce alongside slices of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of chopped dill. These finishing touches brighten every bite and give your dish that fresh, vibrant personality that’s irresistible.

How to Serve How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer Recipe

How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A handful of fresh lemon slices and chopped dill transforms this simple salmon into something truly special. The citrus cuts through the richness while dill adds that classic herbal note that pairs amazingly well with fish. Don’t be shy—add extra herbs to make it look as delicious as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This air fryer salmon shines when paired with light, fresh sides. Think steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. These sides keep the meal balanced and highlight the salmon without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner, plate salmon over a bed of quinoa or fluffy couscous with lemon wedges on the side. If you want to impress guests, try serving salmon atop a dollop of creamy avocado mash or alongside a colorful spiralized veggie salad. Presentation can be simple or fancy—the flavors always take center stage.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover air fryer salmon stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon dill sauce in a separate container to maintain its freshness until ready to serve again.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked salmon fillets, though texture may slightly change. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe bag. Use within 2 months for best quality and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

The air fryer is your best friend for reheating salmon! Simply heat at 350 degrees for 3-5 minutes just until warmed through. This method helps keep the edges crisp and the inside moist rather than drying it out like a microwave often does.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before seasoning and air frying to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

Is it necessary to use Dijon mustard?

Dijon mustard adds a nice tang and helps emulsify the seasoning oil, but if you don’t have it on hand, a little honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can be a great substitute.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake the salmon instead?

Yes, you can bake the salmon at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 12-15 minutes in a conventional oven. The air fryer, however, will give you a crisper crust in less time.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. The edges will be slightly crispy, and the center will be moist but cooked through.

Can I double this recipe?

Definitely! Just make sure your air fryer basket or tray isn’t overcrowded. Cook in batches if needed to keep the salmon fillets spaced out for even air circulation.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know exactly how to cook salmon in the air fryer recipe, I encourage you to give it a try tonight. It’s a fuss-free, flavorful way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in a fraction of the time. Once you taste how perfectly crispy and tender this salmon can be, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked it any other way!

How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make How to Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer Recipe