Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Salmon is one of the quickest and most delicious ways to enjoy perfectly cooked salmon at home. With just a few pantry staples and fresh salmon fillets, you’ll have dinner ready in under 15 minutes. The air fryer gives the salmon a lightly crisped outside while keeping the inside tender, flaky, and full of flavor. Plus, the combination of lemon, garlic, and Dijon mustard creates a bright, zesty finish that pairs beautifully with almost any side dish.
Salmon has been celebrated for centuries, not just for its rich flavor but also for its incredible nutritional benefits. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, it’s a heart-healthy option that fits effortlessly into both quick weeknight dinners and elegant weekend meals.
With this easy air fryer method, there’s no need to heat up the oven or stand over a pan. Instead, you’ll enjoy consistent, foolproof results every single time. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a weeknight staple.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
4 salmon fillets, 6 oz each
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat and prepare:
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure crisp edges.
2. Make the marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Coat the salmon:
Brush marinade generously over each salmon fillet, covering both the top and sides. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavor.
4. Air fry the salmon:
Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 7–9 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Finish and serve:
Transfer salmon to a serving plate, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between fillets in the air fryer so hot air can circulate for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the thickest part; salmon should be opaque but still moist.
- Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or drizzle of honey before air frying for a sweet-heat twist.
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