This air fryer salmon is a quick and delicious way to enjoy perfectly cooked fish with almost no effort. The salmon fillets come out tender and juicy, with a slight crisp on the edges. The hint of lemon zest adds a bright, refreshing flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich taste of salmon.
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Cooking salmon in the air fryer is perfect when you're looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal. Whether you're preparing dinner on a busy weeknight or looking for an impressive yet effortless dish to serve guests, this recipe delivers flavorful and tender salmon fillets every time.
And if you like this air fryer recipe, make sure to check out our other fast and easy ones. Like our air fryer teriyaki salmon. Or our favorite whole chicken in an air fryer or our deliciously easy air fryer steak bites.
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What You'll Love About This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy: Uses minimal oil and preserves the nutritional benefits of salmon.
- Flavorful: The combination of avocado oil and lemon zest enhances the natural taste of the salmon.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from salads to roasted vegetables.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer keeps the mess to a minimum.
Ingredients
- Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Wild-caught is often preferred for its rich flavor and texture.
- Avocado Oil: Known for its high smoke point and health benefits, avocado oil helps in achieving a crispy exterior without burning.
- Salt: A basic seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
- Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest brings a bright, citrusy note that complements the richness of the salmon.
- Fresh Lemon Wedges: For serving, they add a fresh burst of flavor when squeezed over the cooked salmon.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by setting your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
Prepare the Salmon: Next, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for getting that crispy exterior.
Oil the Fillets: Then, brush both sides of the salmon fillets with avocado oil. Make sure they're well-coated to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
Season the Salmon: Now, sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over the fillets. Be generous but not overwhelming to ensure a balanced taste.
Add Lemon Zest: Grate the zest of a fresh lemon over the salmon, distributing it evenly. This adds a refreshing citrus flavor to each bite.
Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Avoid overcrowding to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.
Cook the Salmon: Air fry the salmon for 7-10 minutes. You'll know it's done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Rest the Fillets: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps retain the juices.
Serve: Finally, serve the salmon with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish before enjoying.
Lemon Zest Tip: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon zest instead of bottled. Fresh zest is more aromatic and adds a brighter, more vibrant citrus note to your salmon.
Substitutions
- Olive Oil: If you don’t have avocado oil, olive oil is a great alternative.
- Other Citrus Zest: Try using lime or orange zest for a different citrus flavor profile.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with dill, garlic powder, or paprika for additional seasoning.
Variations
Honey Glazed Salmon: Add a drizzle of honey before cooking for a touch of sweetness.
Spicy Salmon: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a kick of heat.
Garlic Parmesan Salmon: Mix grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, then sprinkle over the salmon before air frying.
Equipment
- Air Fryer: Essential for this recipe. If you don’t have an air fryer, a convection oven can be a good alternative.
- Paper Towels: For patting the salmon fillets dry to ensure they cook evenly.
- Basting Brush: Helps in applying the avocado oil evenly over the fillets.
- Grater: For zesting the lemon. A microplane is particularly effective.
- Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the salmon for perfect doneness.
Storage
Have leftover salmon? Here's our tips on how to store it.
Fridge: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave or oven.
Top tip
To ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This prevents overcooking and ensures a moist, tender fillet.
FAQ
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, pat the fillets dry to remove any excess moisture for a better texture and even cooking.
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet, and it should read 145°F (63°C). Additionally, the flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it’s still translucent or tough, it needs more cooking time.
You can cook more than four fillets if your air fryer basket is large enough to hold them in a single layer without overcrowding. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook in batches for the best results.
Yes, you can use other types of fish such as cod, haddock, or trout with this recipe. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and type of fish, as some may cook faster or slower than salmon. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
To enhance the flavor, you can marinate the salmon for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. Use a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice for a simple marinade. Additionally, you can experiment with different seasonings like dill, paprika, or a spice rub to suit your taste preferences.
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Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets 7-ounce
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- lemon zest fresh
- lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Pat salmon fillets dry.
- Brush fillets with avocado oil.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Grate lemon zest over salmon.
- Place fillets in air fryer basket, skin-side down.
- Cook for 7-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
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