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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon

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An easy and quick recipe for perfectly crispy salmon skin and tender, juicy flesh using an air fryer. Ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 ounces each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • Sea salt to taste (flaky finishing salt like Maldon preferred)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them completely dry using paper towels.
  2. Rub olive oil evenly over both sides of the salmon.
  3. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle garlic powder if using.
  4. Let the fillets sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes if time allows.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  7. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes depending on thickness; thicker fillets may need up to 12 minutes.
  8. Check for doneness: skin should be golden and crackly, flesh opaque but tender. Use a thermometer if desired (125°F for medium-rare, 140°F for well done).
  9. Carefully transfer salmon to a plate skin-side up and let rest for 2 minutes.
  10. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the fillets and sprinkling with chopped herbs if desired.

Notes

Pat the salmon skin very dry before cooking to ensure crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent steaming. Use a light coat of oil to prevent sticking. If your air fryer basket sticks, line it with perforated parchment paper but do not cover the entire basket to maintain airflow. Let salmon rest after cooking to keep skin crisp. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to preserve crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy salmon, air fryer salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, quick dinner, crispy skin salmon

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/crispy-air-fryer-salmon-recipe-easy-perfectly-crisp-skin-guide/