Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thawing first gives better texture and more even seasoning coverage. If cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cook time.

How do I know when Air Fryer Salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and look opaque in the center. For extra accuracy, use a meat thermometer.

Can I make this recipe without cayenne pepper?

Absolutely. The cayenne simply adds heat. Leaving it out still gives you delicious salmon with smoky, savory flavor.

How long does cooked salmon last in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cold leftover salmon is surprisingly amazing tossed into salads or wrapped in a tortilla with crunchy veggies.

What sides go best with Air Fryer Salmon?

Rice, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, mashed potatoes, quinoa, and pasta all work wonderfully. Basically, if it sounds comforting and delicious, salmon probably agrees.

Air Fryer Salmon: Amazing 15-Minute Dinner

Name: Air Fryer Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

Description

This Air Fryer Salmon is crispy on the outside, tender and flaky inside, and packed with smoky garlic flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect easy dinner for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets and drizzle with lemon juice.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For extra flavor, drizzle with honey or fresh lime juice after cooking.

Adjust cayenne pepper for preferred spice level.

Cook salmon to an internal temperature of 130°F–145°F depending on desired doneness.

Every air fryer cooks slightly differently, so start checking around 8 minutes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
Calories: 320
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 85mg