Easy Air Fryer Salmon

An oval plate of bright orange salmon fillets for serving with pineapple salsa.

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Easy air fryer salmon cooks quickly with simple seasoning and a moist, tender center. A fast, healthy dinner for busy weeknights.

Prep Time5

Cook Time8

Total Time13

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 244kcal

Author: Sally Cameron

Equipment

Air fryer 6 quart or larger

Ingredients

1 ½ - 2 pounds salmon skinned and blood lined if preferred
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon granulated garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
avocado oil spray

Instructions

Set up air fryer

Spray the air fryer basket lightly with avocado oil for easier release and cleanup. Preheat the air fryer to 385°F if your model has a preheat function; otherwise, set it to 385°F and proceed.

Season salmon

Combine the seasonings and sprinkle evenly over both sides of the salmon. You may not need all of the seasoning, depending on the size and shape of your fillets. Place in the basket with space between them. Spritz lightly with the avocado oil.

Air fry salmon

Air fry the salmon at 385°F for 6–8 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Check the internal temperature at the thickest part; thinner fillets may be ready closer to 6 minutes, while thicker portions may need the full 8. Final temp should be 140°F - 145°F.
Serve right away with a squeeze of lemon or with a sauce, or topping of preference.

Notes

Leftover cooked salmon is best eaten the following day, although it can be refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Enjoy it cold over salad, or reheat it gently so it does not dry out. I enjoy leftovers chilled or room temperature in a salmon bowl with salad greens and a Dijon mustard vinaigrette.

For sauce, and topping ideas check out the recipe index for that category.

Nutrition