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Crispy 5-Ingredient Air Fryer Salmon Fillet

Crispy 5-Ingredient Air Fryer Salmon Fillet: Easy Recipe for Beginners

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  • Author: Sandra
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7-9 minutes
  • Total Time: 12-14 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A quick and easy air fryer salmon recipe that delivers a crispy outside and tender inside using just five simple ingredients. Perfect for beginners and busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 oz (170g) each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil,aextra virgin preferred
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

3. Mix the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until combined.

4. Brush or rub the seasoning mix evenly over both the skin and flesh sides of the salmon fillets.

5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch or overlap.

6. Cook for 7-9 minutes depending on thickness. Check at 7 minutes for golden brown, crispy skin and flaky flesh.

7. Remove carefully using tongs or a fish spatula and let rest for 1-2 minutes.

8. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges or your favorite sides.


Notes

Dry the salmon thoroughly to ensure crispiness.

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.

Skin-on fillets are recommended for best texture.

Preheat the air fryer for crispier skin.

Optionally flip skin-side up for the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness, but handle gently to avoid breaking the fish.

Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (6 oz)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg