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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Butter

Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Butter - featured image

A quick and easy 15-minute dinner featuring salmon fillets cooked in an air fryer for a crispy exterior and tender interior, finished with a rich lemon butter glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2 minutes.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
  3. Season both sides of the salmon generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Lightly brush both sides of the seasoned salmon with olive oil.
  5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily.
  7. While the salmon cooks, melt the butter in a small bowl or saucepan.
  8. Whisk in the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried parsley to create the glaze.
  9. Remove the salmon from the air fryer and immediately brush or spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over the hot fillets.
  10. Serve immediately while crispy.

Notes

Ensure salmon is completely dry before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Apply the lemon butter sauce after cooking to prevent burning. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, lemon butter salmon, quick dinner, healthy seafood, weeknight meals, gluten-free, keto-friendly