Easy air fryer salmon recipe

Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

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# **Air Fryer Salmon That’ll Make You Forget the Oven Ever Existed**

Easy Air Fryer Salmon (Crispy, Juicy, Done in 10 Minutes!)

Air fryer salmon

This isn’t just salmon—it’s *the* salmon. The kind with a crispy, golden crust on the outside and buttery, flaky perfection inside. And the best part? You don’t even have to turn on your oven.

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless—your call!)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (the good stuff, please)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or more, I won’t judge)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, both work)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plus a pinch extra if you like)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground—trust me, it makes a difference)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh, or don’t bother)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for that *chef’s kiss* finish)
  1. Crank your air fryer to 400°F and let it heat up for 3-5 minutes. (Think of it like preheating your patience—it’ll be worth it.)
  2. Grab some paper towels and pat those salmon fillets *dry*. Water is the enemy of crispiness, and we’re here for crispy.
  3. Drizzle or brush both sides of the salmon with olive oil. Don’t be shy—it’s the secret to that golden crust.
  4. In a little bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this magic blend all over the salmon, front and back. (Pro tip: Rub it in a little so it sticks.)
  5. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If they’re skin-on, put them skin-side down. *Do not* let them touch—this isn’t a salmon cuddle party.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Thinner fillets? Check at 7 minutes. Thicker ones? You might need up to 12. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and hits 145°F inside.
  7. Pull the salmon out, let it rest for 2 minutes (this is *not* the time to dig in), then hit it with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley. Boom. Dinner’s ready.

Here’s the deal: Not all salmon fillets are created equal. If yours are wildly different in thickness, you might need to cook them in batches. And if your air fryer’s on the smaller side, don’t overcrowd it—nobody wants steamed salmon when they’re craving crispy. Oh, and if you’re using frozen salmon? Thaw it first, or you’ll end up with a sad, watery mess.

Air Fryer Recipes
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