Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs Recipe – Easy and Delicious

Ever had one of those busy weeknights when you crave something nutritious and flavorful but don’t have the energy for complicated cooking? That’s where this Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe comes to the rescue. I discovered this method after a particularly exhausting day when I wanted something healthier than takeout but just as convenient.

The magic of this Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs lies in its beautiful simplicity. Imagine tender, flaky salmon fillets with a perfectly crisp exterior, infused with bright lemon and fragrant herbs that fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around the fish, creating that restaurant-quality texture in just minutes – crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully moist inside.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself after a long day, preparing a quick family dinner, or even impressing guests with minimal effort, this Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe delivers exceptional results every time. The best part? It’s nearly foolproof, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

• ✅ Quick Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish
• ✅ Healthy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs cooking method uses minimal oil while maximizing flavor
• ✅ Perfect Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs texture – crispy outside, tender and juicy inside
• ✅ Easy cleanup after making Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs – no fishy smell in your kitchen
• ✅ Versatile Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe that works with fresh or frozen salmon fillets
• ✅ Budget-friendly Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs that tastes like an expensive restaurant dish
• ✅ Naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs for various dietary needs

Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

• 4 salmon fillets (4-6 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (sea salt or kosher salt work best)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or substitute with honey or maple syrup for natural sweeteners)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (sweet paprika works too, but smoked adds wonderful depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 lemon, sliced (plus extra wedges for serving)
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme, or a combination)

Ingredient Tips:

• For the best Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, choose fillets of similar thickness to ensure even cooking
• If using frozen salmon for your Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking
• Fresh herbs elevate the Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs flavor profile, but dried herbs work in a pinch (use 1/3 the amount)

How to Make Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Check for any pin bones and remove them with tweezers if necessary.
3. Let the salmon come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes for more even cooking.

Step 2: Create the Seasoning Blend

1. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

1. Brush each salmon fillet with olive oil on all sides.
2. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon, gently pressing it into the flesh.
3. Chop the fresh herbs and sprinkle them over the salmon.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Place lemon slices in the bottom of the air fryer basket.

Step 5: Cook the Salmon

1. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down on top of the lemon slices.
2. Air fry for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets and desired doneness.
3. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer.
2. Let it rest for 2 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
3. Serve with additional lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

• The secret to perfect Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs is not overcooking it. Salmon continues to cook slightly after removing from the air fryer.
• For crispy skin on your Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, pat the skin extra dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the basket.
• Can I make Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs with frozen salmon? Yes, but add 3-4 minutes to the cooking time and check for doneness.
• For a spicy twist on Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Marinate your salmon for 30 minutes before cooking for an even more flavorful Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs.
• The optimal lemon herb air fryer salmon cooking time varies by thickness – thinner fillets need only 6-7 minutes, while thicker cuts may need up to 12 minutes.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

This versatile Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs pairs beautifully with so many side dishes. For a complete meal, try serving it with:

• Steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts
• Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a low-carb option
• Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
• Lemon herb rice or quinoa
• Roasted baby potatoes with rosemary

For an elegant presentation of your Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, place the fillet on a bed of greens, add a fresh lemon wedge, and sprinkle with additional herbs. A light drizzle of good olive oil just before serving adds a beautiful finish.

Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

Per serving (1 salmon fillet with seasoning):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 340mg

This Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin D and B vitamins.

Storage & Leftovers

Properly stored, leftover Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to prevent the salmon from drying out and to minimize any fishy odors in your fridge.

To reheat Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs without drying it out, place it in the air fryer at 275°F for just 3-4 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power for 1 minute.

Leftover Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs also makes excellent cold salmon salad or can be flaked into pasta dishes the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

How long to air fry salmon at 400 degrees?

When cooking Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs at 400°F, reduce the cooking time to 6-8 minutes for medium fillets. The higher temperature creates a crispier exterior but cooks the salmon faster, so monitor closely to prevent overcooking.

What herbs pair well with salmon in an air fryer?

The best herbs for Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs include dill, parsley, thyme, chives, and tarragon. These herbs withstand the high heat of the air fryer while complementing salmon’s natural flavor. For a Mediterranean twist, try oregano and basil with your lemon herb air fryer salmon.

Can you cook frozen salmon in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen salmon for your Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, but you’ll need to adjust the method slightly. Thaw the salmon for 5 minutes under cold water first, pat dry, then add 3-4 minutes to the cooking time. Check the internal temperature reaches 145°F before serving.

How to prevent salmon from drying out in the air fryer?

To prevent dry Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs, keep these tips in mind: don’t overcook (use a timer), add a thin layer of olive oil before seasoning, cook skin-side down, and let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe proves that healthy, delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By using the air fryer, you achieve that perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior that makes salmon such a beloved dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs complement the rich, natural taste of the salmon beautifully, creating a dish that feels special enough for company but easy enough for weeknights.

Have you tried this Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon and Herbs recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out, and don’t forget to share any creative herb combinations or serving suggestions you discovered along the way!

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