Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon

Introduction

Welcome to EvasRecipes, where cooking just got a whole lot easier and more delicious! Today, we’re diving into the world of air fryer salmon recipes, and I’m excited to share with you my favorite way to cook salmon that’s not only quick but also packed with flavor. With an air fryer, you can achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior in just a fraction of the time it would take in a traditional oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer salmon recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. Here are just a few benefits:
* It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and cleanup.
* The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior and a tender interior, which can be challenging to achieve with traditional cooking methods.
* It’s fast – you can have a delicious, healthy meal on the table in under 15 minutes.
* The garlic powder and paprika add a depth of flavor that complements the salty and smoky notes of the salmon perfectly.

Ingredients

* 2 salmon filets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
* 1 tablespoon melted butter (or olive oil)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* ½ teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
* ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
* ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or any coarse salt)
* Lemon wedges for squeezing on top

Note: You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter option, and feel free to use fresh or frozen salmon for this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Line the basket with foil and lightly spritz with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Pat the salmon filets thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
3. Brush the top of each salmon filet evenly with 1 tablespoon melted butter (or olive oil).
4. Mix the garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle generously over the salmon.
5. Air fry skin-side down for 10 minutes. Avoid flipping—crispy edges form during this time.
6. Test doneness: Salmon must reach 145°F (63°C) internally and flake easily with a fork. For medium preference, aim for 135°F (57°C) and rest 2 minutes.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges squeezed on top for brightness.

Expert Tips

To ensure your salmon turns out perfectly, remember to not overcrowd the air fryer basket, and if you’re using frozen salmon, add an extra 2-4 minutes to the cooking time. Also, don’t flip the salmon; the air fryer will do its magic. For accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. If you are looking for other delicious recipes, you can check our crock pot vs slow cooker guide for more ideas, or visit our best slow cooker recipes for inspiration.

FAQs & Conclusion

Frequently asked questions about this recipe include what size salmon filets to use (6 oz, 1 inch thick) and whether to flip the salmon (no, you don’t need to). For storage, keep your cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. This air fryer salmon recipe is not only delicious but also convenient and healthy. Give it a try and experience the magic of cooking with an air fryer! If you’re interested in other healthy meal options, consider checking out our vegetarian slow cooker recipes. Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes!