Go Back

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets cooked in the air fryer to achieve a perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh. The process involves dry patting, seasoning, and carefully placing the fish skin-side down in the hot air, resulting in a visually appealing and flavorful main course with a satisfying crunch.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces salmon fillets (skin-on preferred) pat dry before seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil lightly brush or spray
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt coarse or kosher
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper fresh cracked
  • ½ teaspoon paprika smoked paprika for extra depth
  • 1 lemon lemon wedges for serving
  • Optional fresh dill or parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat each salmon fillet thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure crisp skin.
  2. Using a brush or spray, lightly coat the skin side of each fillet with olive oil to help achieve a crispy texture.
  3. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly over all sides of the fillets, pressing gently to help the seasonings stick.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes, ensuring it's hot and ready for the salmon.
  5. Carefully place the fillets skin-side down into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching to allow air circulation.
  6. Cook the salmon for 8-10 minutes, watching for the skin to turn golden and crispy, and the flesh to become opaque and tender.
  7. Once cooked, use tongs to carefully lift each fillet out of the air fryer, noting the crispy skin and flaky flesh.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the fillets just before serving for a bright, zesty finish. Garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes and enjoy the crispy skin and tender, flavorful flesh.

Notes

Ensure the salmon skin is thoroughly dried for maximum crispiness. Adjust cook time depending on fillet thickness. For extra flavor, add a dash of lemon zest or fresh herbs after cooking.