Are you looking for a healthy, delicious, and incredibly fast dinner option? Look no further. This Quick Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Garlic recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It delivers perfectly flaky, tender fish with a crispy golden exterior—all in under 15 minutes.
.png)
Using an air fryer for salmon is arguably the best method available. It circulates hot air around the fillet, locking in moisture while creating that sought-after "pan-seared" texture without the mess of oil splatters on your stovetop.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon
Speed: From prep to plate in less than 15 minutes.
Health: High in Omega-3 fatty acids and protein with minimal added fats.
Easy Cleanup: No oily pans; just the air fryer basket.
Flavor: The classic combination of garlic and lemon cuts through the richness of the salmon perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get the best results, use fresh ingredients. Here is what you will need:
2 Salmon Fillets: (Approx. 6 oz each), preferably center-cut.
1 tbsp Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and crisps the skin.
2 Cloves Garlic: Minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder).
1/2 Lemon: Sliced into rounds (plus extra for juice).
Seasoning: Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of paprika for color.
Fresh Parsley: For a vibrant garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This is the secret step to getting a crispy texture. Rub the olive oil over the fillets, then season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and the minced garlic.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While some models don’t require preheating, doing so ensures the fish starts cooking instantly, which prevents it from drying out.
3. Air Fry the Salmon
Place the fillets in the air fryer basket (skin-side down). Place a lemon slice on top of each fillet. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.
Pro Tip: Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of $145^{\circ}\text{F}$ ($63^{\circ}\text{C}$) or flakes easily with a fork.
4. Garnish and Serve
Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the hot fish and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with:
Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli: You can often cook these in the air fryer at the same time!
Quinoa or Brown Rice: To soak up the garlic-lemon juices.
Fresh Garden Salad: For a light, low-carb keto meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! However, for the best texture, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first. If cooking from frozen, add 5–7 minutes to the cooking time and check the internal temperature frequently.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to maintain the texture.
Should I leave the skin on?
Yes. The skin acts as a barrier that prevents the fish from overcooking and helps it stay moist. Plus, it peels off easily after cooking if you prefer not to eat it.
Conclusion
This Quick Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Garlic proves that you don't need a lot of time or ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s reliable, nutritious, and absolutely delicious.
Would you like me to create a shopping list for this recipe or perhaps suggest a specific side dish recipe to go with it?
.png&description=Quick Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Garlic: The Perfect 15-Minute Meal){kind=link}