Salmon cooks quickly and evenly in an air fryer, making it a convenient and healthy option for busy meals. Using an air fryer produces perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and tender interior without needing much oil. This method also locks in flavor while reducing cooking time.

The air fryer allows for easy experimentation with spices, marinades, and cooking times, helping to customize each recipe to taste. It works well for fillets, steaks, or even salmon bites, delivering consistent results every time.

Best Air Fryer Salmon Recipes

These air fryer salmon recipes focus on simple seasoning, bold flavors, and fresh ingredients. Each recipe highlights a distinct taste profile, ensuring easy preparation with a reliable cooking method for moist, flaky salmon every time.

Classic Air Fryer Salmon Fillet

The classic recipe calls for basic seasoning: salt, pepper, and olive oil. The salmon fillet is brushed with oil and sprinkled evenly with salt and pepper, then cooked skin-side down in the air fryer.

Cook at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, depending on thickness. This method provides a crisp exterior and tender interior without added sauces or complexity. It suits those who want pure salmon flavor with minimal effort.

Honey Garlic Air Fryer Salmon

This version mixes honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of lemon juice. The marinade is brushed on the fillets before air frying for a sweet and savory finish.

Air fry at 390°F for 8-10 minutes. The honey caramelizes slightly, creating a sticky glaze, while garlic enhances depth. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or rice.

Lemon Dill Air Fryer Salmon

Fresh lemon juice and chopped dill combine in this bright and herbaceous recipe. A light coating of olive oil helps the herbs adhere to the fish.

Cook at 400°F for 7-9 minutes. The acidity of lemon balances the richness of salmon, while dill adds a grassy flavor. This recipe works well for a light, refreshing meal option.

How To Cook Salmon In An Air Fryer

Salmon cooking in an air fryer requires careful preparation, precise temperature control, and techniques ensuring even heat distribution. These factors ensure the fish cooks thoroughly while staying moist and flavorful.

Preparing Salmon for the Air Fryer

Before cooking, the salmon should be patted dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer.

Seasoning is important. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest, or simple olive oil. Applying a light layer of oil prevents sticking and enhances browning.

Cut salmon into uniform portions around 6 ounces each to ensure consistent cooking. Skin-on fillets are preferred for better texture and moisture retention.

Let salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. This reduces temperature shock and promotes even cooking.

Recommended Temperature and Cooking Times

Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F (204°C) for optimal cooking. This temperature crisps the salmon skin and cooks the inside thoroughly.

Cooking time usually ranges from 7 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness. A 1-inch thick fillet requires about 8 minutes.

It’s best to preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding salmon to ensure immediate heat exposure.

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Salmon is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), but many prefer it slightly less cooked at 130-135°F (54-57°C) for moistness.

Pro Tips for Even Cooking

Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket to protect the flesh and promote even heat distribution.

Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary, with space between each piece.

Flip the salmon halfway through cooking only if desired. Many cooks prefer to leave it skin-side down for crispiness.

If the fillets vary in thickness, remove thinner pieces earlier to prevent overcooking. Check internal temperatures frequently in such cases.

Using a light spray of cooking oil during cooking can help maintain moisture and improve texture.

Healthy Air Fryer Salmon Variations

Different approaches to air fryer salmon can address specific dietary needs. Some focus on reducing carbohydrates, while others incorporate heart-healthy Mediterranean ingredients for balanced nutrition.

Low-Carb Salmon Options

Low-carb salmon recipes emphasize minimal added sugars and starches. They often pair salmon with vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or spinach to keep carbohydrate intake low.

Seasonings for these recipes usually include lemon, garlic, dill, and pepper. These enhance flavor without adding carbs. Butter or olive oil can be used to maintain healthy fats.

Cooking times are generally 8–12 minutes at 375°F, depending on fillet thickness. This method preserves moisture and nutrients while avoiding excess calories from carbs.

Mediterranean-Style Air Fryer Salmon

This style uses ingredients common in Mediterranean diets, such as olive oil, tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs like oregano and basil. These provide antioxidants and support heart health.

A typical recipe might marinate the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic before air frying. Adding a side of air-fried vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant complements the dish.

Mediterranean salmon often includes a sprinkle of feta or a drizzle of tzatziki after cooking. This adds flavor while aligning with the diet’s focus on wholesome, fresh ingredients.

Side Dishes to Pair With Air Fryer Salmon

Pairing the right side dishes with air fryer salmon enhances its flavor and balances the meal. Choices often include fresh, vibrant vegetables or light, textured grains and salads that complement the fish’s richness.

Vegetable Sides

Roasted or steamed vegetables work well since they add contrast without overpowering the salmon. Asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts tossed with a bit of olive oil and lemon zest provide a bright, earthy touch.

Air fryer vegetables can be prepared simultaneously for a crispy texture that matches the salmon’s exterior. Carrots or zucchini ribbons with garlic and herbs offer a simple, healthy option.

Vegetables rich in color and crunch bring freshness, helping to balance the salmon’s oily texture. Steamed broccoli with a sprinkle of toasted almonds is another effective pairing.

Grain and Salad Pairings

Light grains such as quinoa or couscous provide a nutty background that pairs well with salmon’s flavor. Mixing grains with herbs like parsley or dill adds aromatic depth.

Salads with citrus-based dressings highlight the fish’s natural taste. A simple arugula and avocado salad with lemon vinaigrette offers creaminess and acidity in one dish.

Cold pasta salads with cucumber and tomatoes give a refreshing counterpoint. These options maintain a balance between texture and flavor without competing with the main protein.

Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Salmon

Air fryer salmon should be stored properly to maintain its freshness. Place the cooked salmon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freezing is an option. Wrap the salmon in freezer-safe packaging to prevent freezer burn. Frozen salmon will retain the best quality for up to 2 months.

When reheating, it is best to use the air fryer again. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Heat the salmon for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through, checking to avoid drying out the fish.

Alternatively, reheating in a microwave is possible but may cause uneven heating. Use medium heat and reheat in short intervals of 30 seconds, covering the salmon to retain moisture.

Tips for reheating:

• Avoid overheating to prevent dryness
• Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 125°F to 130°F (52°C to 54°C)
• Let the salmon rest a few minutes after reheating for even heat distribution

Proper storage and gentle reheating keep air fryer salmon flavorful and safe to eat.