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Air Fryer Salmon with Crispy Skin Easy Recipe for Perfect Dinner

air fryer salmon with crispy skin - featured image

This air fryer salmon recipe delivers perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy flesh in under 20 minutes. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option that feels fancy but is easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 oz (170 g) each, preferably wild-caught
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil or avocado oil for brushing the skin
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  2. Pat each salmon fillet’s skin dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Brush the skin side of each fillet with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of oil.
  4. Sprinkle kosher salt generously on the skin side and lightly season the flesh side with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
  5. Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket with space around each fillet for air circulation. Do not overcrowd.
  6. Cook for 7-9 minutes, checking at 7 minutes. The skin should be golden and crisp, and the flesh should flake easily but remain moist. Target an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium doneness.
  7. Optional: Flip the salmon after 5 minutes to sear the top for 2-3 minutes if desired.
  8. Remove salmon and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
  9. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and garnish with chopped dill or parsley if desired.

Notes

Patting the salmon skin dry is essential for crispiness. Use a thin layer of oil to help the skin crisp and prevent sticking. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Let the salmon rest after cooking to keep it juicy. For reheating leftovers, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to refresh crispiness without drying out the fish.

Nutrition

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