Looking for a fast and delicious salmon recipe? This Air Fryer Salmon is perfect for busy nights or meal prepping. With just a few simple ingredients like olive oil, Dijon mustard, and lemon, this recipe creates tender and juicy salmon with a crispy, flavorful crust. The air fryer cooks the fish quickly, giving it a golden, slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, from a 1 ½ lb piece of salmon)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tsp Dijon mustard
Zest from 1 lemon (reserved for garnish)
1 tsp lemon juice (plus extra lemon wedges to serve)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp fine sea salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 400ºF. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Arrange the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Brush the Dijon mixture over the top and sides of each salmon fillet.
Air fry the salmon for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and the type of air fryer you use. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145ºF using an instant-read thermometer.
Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a platter and grate fresh lemon zest over the top. Squeeze more lemon juice over the fillets to enhance the flavor.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra citrusy goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Salmon is an easy and delicious way to enjoy tender, flaky salmon in just minutes. The Dijon mustard and lemon combination gives the fish a vibrant, tangy flavor, while the air fryer ensures a perfectly crisp exterior. With minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or as a healthy option for meal prepping. It’s a flavorful and nutritious dinner that’s ready in under 15 minutes, making it a great choice for anyone looking to add more omega-3-rich salmon to their diet!

Tips

Thickness matters: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker fillets may need a little extra time, while thinner ones may cook faster.
Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the salmon is perfectly cooked, use an instant-read thermometer. Salmon is done when it reaches 145ºF.
No sticking: Greasing the air fryer basket or using parchment paper will help prevent the salmon from sticking to the basket.

Variations and Substitutions

Flavor variations: For a different flavor profile, try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, or sprinkle on some paprika for a smoky touch.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder for a little heat.
Herb substitutions: If you don’t have parsley, try garnishing with dill or chives for a fresh herbal flavor.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

FAQs

How do I know when my salmon is done? Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF. You can check with an instant-read thermometer or check for flakiness with a fork.

Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer? Yes, you can cook frozen salmon in the air fryer. Simply increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145ºF.

Do I need to flip the salmon during cooking? No, flipping the salmon is not necessary. The air fryer circulates hot air around the fish, allowing it to cook evenly on all sides.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
Pair with rice or quinoa for a filling side dish that complements the light, tender salmon.
For a fresh touch, serve the salmon with a green salad or cucumber slices to balance the richness of the fish.