Easy Air Fryer Salmon Fillets with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

About

Tender, flaky salmon fillets seasoned with garlic, lemon, and simple pantry spices, cooked to perfection in the air fryer in under 15 minutes. A fast and healthy weeknight dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

1. 1

   Preheat the Air Fryer

   preheat 5 min

   Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the salmon begins cooking immediately on contact, helping to develop a lightly crisped exterior. While the air fryer heats up, start Step 2.

2. 2

   Season the Salmon

   prep 5 min

   In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, then use a spoon or pastry brush to coat all exposed surfaces of each fillet evenly with the seasoned oil mixture. Squeeze the juice of half the lemon over the fillets and let them sit for 1–2 minutes while the air fryer finishes preheating.

3. 3

   Air Fry the Salmon

   cook 12 min

   Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, leaving a little space between each fillet. Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness — fillets are done when the flesh is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if your air fryer is small.

4. 4

   Rest the Salmon

   rest 2 min

   Remove the fillets from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the flesh, keeping the salmon moist and tender.

5. 5

   Serve with Lemon Wedges

   serve

   Transfer the salmon fillets to plates and serve immediately with the reserved lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. Pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.