Quick and Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
Learn how to make tender, flaky salmon with a crispy crust using your air fryer. This simple method is ideal for a healthy, no-fuss dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Quick, clean and effortless salmon in the air fryer
Looking for a fast, no-fuss dinner without turning on the oven or dealing with greasy mess? Air fryer salmon is the answer.
In just minutes, you get perfectly tender, juicy fish with a golden, crispy crust — no frying, no lingering smells, and no oily splatters.
This method is a total game-changer: it cooks faster than a traditional oven, keeps the kitchen clean, and makes weeknight dinners feel special with minimal effort.
Whether you’re short on time or just craving something light and flavorful, this recipe fits the bill.
The air fryer delivers even cooking every time, keeping the salmon moist inside while adding just the right amount of crisp on the outside.
It’s healthy, simple, and seriously delicious — once you try it, you’ll be making it on repeat. Go ahead, plug in your air fryer!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to make flavorful, tender salmon in your air fryer. Each ingredient plays a key role in bringing out the best in the fish:
- 2 Salmon Fillets (Skinless or Skin-On) : Choose fresh or thawed salmon fillets, about 150–180g each. Make sure they’re of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Ground Ginger : Adds a warm, slightly spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of salmon.
- Ground Cumin : Brings a subtle earthy depth and warmth to the seasoning blend.
- Freshly Ground Salt : Enhances the natural flavor of the fish. Use sea salt or Himalayan salt for a cleaner taste.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper : Adds a touch of sharpness and helps balance the richness of the salmon.
- Juice of Half a Lemon (or a Light Drizzle) : Brightens the dish with acidity, helping to cut through the oily texture of the fish.
- Drizzle of Olive Oil : Keeps the salmon moist during cooking and promotes a nicely crisped surface. Use extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
How to Prepare and Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer
Follow these easy steps to marinate and cook perfectly juicy salmon fillets using your air fryer:
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
- Rinse the salmon fillets and gently remove the skin if desired.
- Season with salt, black pepper, ground ginger, ground cumin, and freshly grated garlic.
- Drizzle over a bit of lemon juice and olive oil.
- Place the fillets in a covered dish or wrap with plastic film, and refrigerate. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents any fishy smell from spreading in your fridge.
- Let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes.
Step 2: Air Fry the Salmon
- You can place the marinated salmon directly into the air fryer basket or use a piece of aluminum foil or an aluminum tray to catch the juices for easier cleanup.
- I personally use a Ninja 14-in-1, which saves space and functions like a standard air fryer.
- Set the air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and cook for 15–20 minutes.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon. Check doneness by seeing if it flakes easily with a fork.
Perfect Pairings for Air Fryer Salmon
– Vegetable Sides
- Garlic Sautéed green peas, spinach or kale – Light, nutrient-rich greens that complement the richness of the salmon.
- Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli – Crisp-tender and delicious with just olive oil, salt, and lemon zest.
- Glazed Carrots with Honey and Thyme – Add a touch of natural sweetness and color.
– Grains & Carbs
- Lemon Herb Quinoa – A protein-packed grain with a refreshing citrus twist.
- Brown Rice or Wild Rice Pilaf – Earthy flavors that pair well with the spices in the salmon.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A comforting classic that balances the light texture of the fish.
– Bread Options
- Crusty Artisan Bread – Perfect for soaking up the lemony juices.
- Garlic Butter Baguette Slices – Toasted and flavorful on the side.
– Fresh Elements
- Cucumber raita– Light and cooling, great contrast to warm salmon.
- Cherry Tomato & Avocado Salad – Juicy, vibrant, and full of texture.
– Finishing Touches
- A drizzle of lemon butter sauce
- A spoonful of tahini yogurt dressing
- Garnish with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme
Other recipes to try
- creamy smoked salmon pasta
- Baked Salmon with Clementine Glaze
- Oven Baked Salmon With Lemon Cream Sauce
Crispy Air Fryer Salmon: A Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Favorite
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Ground ginger
- Ground cumin
- 1 clove garlic grated
- Juice of half a lemon
- Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Clean the salmon fillets and pat them dry.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, ground ginger, ground cumin, and grated garlic. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
- Marinate: Place the seasoned fillets in a covered dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- Cook: Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and has a crispy exterior.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of sides
