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easy air fryer salmon

Easy Air Fryer Salmon (Perfectly Flaky in 15 Minutes)

This Easy Air Fryer Salmon is flaky, juicy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect healthy dinner for busy weeknights. Ready in just 15 minutes with simple pantry seasonings, it's a quick, high-protein meal that's great for meal prep or an easy family dinner.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
3 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 ounces each
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer A 5–6 quart model works well.
  • 1 Mixing Bowl For seasoning the salmon.
  • 1 Measuring Spoons To measure spices.
  • 1 Tongs or Spatula For removing the salmon carefully.
  • Meat Thermometer Cook until the salmon reaches 125–145°F, depending on your preferred doneness.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes if your model requires preheating.
    Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
    Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each fillet.
    Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches your preferred level of doneness.
    Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for 3 minutes.
    Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Pat the salmon dry before seasoning.
  • Cook skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
  • Let the salmon rest for 3 minutes before serving.
  • Fresh lemon juice adds the best flavor.
    Don't overcook the salmon—it should flake easily with a fork while staying moist in the center.