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Juicy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter

Close-up of a juicy air fryer salmon fillet with a caramelized, seasoned crust resting on a white plate.
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Cook perfectly juicy air fryer salmon with crispy edges in under 15 minutes using this simple lemon garlic butter recipe. It is a healthy, quick dinner fix for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve a crispy exterior.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Set aside.
  3. In another small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  4. Rub the salmon fillets lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the top and sides of the salmon.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  6. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
  7. Air fry for 8 to 12 minutes. Cooking time depends on the thickness of your fillets; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. For thicker fillets, start checking at 9 minutes.
  8. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the tops of the fillets.
  9. Remove the salmon from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For the crispiest skin, place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
  • If you prefer salmon bites, cut the fillets into 1-inch cubes before seasoning and reduce the cooking time to 6-8 minutes.
  • This recipe is naturally low fat, but for an even lighter option, reduce the butter in the glaze to 1 tablespoon and use olive oil instead of butter.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonsprout.com/air-fryer-salmon/