Speedy Succulent The Easiest Air Fryer Salmon

Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Ready in Under 20 Minutes

By Zelia ThorneSeptember 20, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Craving Salmon?

Fancy some flaky, delicious salmon without the fuss? Honestly, who doesn't? This easy air fryer salmon recipe is a game-changer.

It's simple, quick, and the lemon-dill sauce is chef's kiss . The combination is just perfect.

Quick Overview

This salmon air fryer recipe easy is originally derived from quick pan-frying techniques adopted for modern appliances. It's dead easy and takes less than 20 minutes , start to finish.

This recipe yields two servings. Perfect for a quick dinner.

Main Benefits

This healthy air fryer recipe keeps the salmon moist and tender. It's packed with omega-3s, great for your heart. Serve it on a busy weeknight.

What makes this air fryer salmon so special is how quickly it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal. Now, let’s dive into what you'll need.

Gather Your Ingredients

Ready to get started? Let's talk ingredients. The beauty of this easy salmon recipe lies in its simplicity. You probably have most of this in your kitchen already.

First, grab your salmon fillets. Keep reading for the full shopping list!

Ingredients for Flavour

This lemon dill salmon recipe is all about fresh flavour. Fresh dill makes all the difference. Don't skimp on the lemon juice. It brightens everything up. The ingredients makes it unique.

Simple Steps to Perfection

Honestly, this recipe is so straightforward. Even if your cooking skills are a bit… shall we say, "challenged," you can nail this quick salmon dinner .

The trick is not to overcook the air fryer salmon fillet .

Ingredients & Equipment For The Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Right, let's talk ingredients! I reckon it's the most important bit. This easy air fryer salmon recipe is dead simple. You won't need to raid Waitrose.

Main Ingredients: Keep It Real!

Salmon Fillets: You'll need 2 salmon fillets. Each should be about 4-6 oz / 115-170g . Skin on or off is up to you. I prefer skin-on.
Olive Oil: Just 1 tablespoon (15ml) does the trick.
Garlic Powder: Pop in 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) .
Paprika: A little bit of 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) .
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) will do.
Black Pepper: Now just a tiny bit of 1/8 teaspoon (0.6ml) .
Mayonnaise: Use 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Any brand works.
Lemon Juice: Squeeze out 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Fresh is best!
Fresh Dill: Get about 1 tablespoon (4g) . Chop it up small.

When picking out your salmon, go for that bright, vibrant colour. It should smell fresh, not fishy. Honestly, decent salmon makes all the difference for a succulent air fryer salmon fillet .

Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs

The mix of garlic and paprika gives warmth. The lemon and dill brighten it all. It's like a little taste of summer.

If you're out of dill, chives also work a treat. Wanna add a kick? A tiny pinch of chilli flakes won't hurt.

This lemon dill salmon recipe is so versatile.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!

All you need is an air fryer . Nothing fancy! Then a small bowl to mix up the lemon-dill sauce. Oh, and a fork or whisk to blend it all together.

Paper towels are great for patting the salmon dry. I use my trusty instant-read thermometer for extra safety.

No air fryer? Honestly, you're missing out on this healthy air fryer recipe . You could bake it in the oven.

That will never be as good as salmon air fryer recipe easy

So there you have it. Grab those bits, and you're all set for a quick salmon dinner . This 20 minute salmon recipe is great. Let's get cooking!

Speedy & Succulent: The Easiest Air Fryer Salmon

Honestly, who has time to slave over dinner? Not me! This easy air fryer salmon recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights.

Forget complicated meals. This salmon air fryer recipe easy will have a delicious, healthy dinner on the table in under 20 minutes .

Prep Steps: Essential Mise en Place

Speedy Succulent The Easiest Air Fryer Salmon presentation

First things first, let's get organized. Pat your 2 salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Honestly, this is key for that perfect, slightly crispy texture.

Mix your dry spices in a bowl. Done. The rest will follow! This mise en place helps make the whole process feel less like a chore and more like a victory lap.

Step-by-Step: From Fridge to Fab

Pat the salmon dry.
Brush with olive oil and spices.
Preheat your air fryer to 400° F ( 200° C) .
Place salmon in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 8- 12 minutes .
Mix the lemon-dill sauce while it's cooking.
Serve with a generous dollop of sauce.

The critical temperature point is 145° F ( 63° C) . Use a meat thermometer to make sure. Visual cues? Look for a lovely opaque color.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Salmon Success

Want to level up your air fryer salmon game? Don't overcrowd the basket. It affects the cooking time and how crispy it becomes.

Avoid overcooking the salmon, it becomes too dry. Make the lemon-dill sauce ahead. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days .

I've learned the hard way what not to do. Accidentally overcooked salmon tastes like rubber. Now? I never cook salmon over 12 minutes in the air fryer .

With practice, you will become a pro! This quick salmon dinner is a win.

Recipe Notes for Your Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Right, so you've got the easy air fryer salmon recipe . Now let's talk about making it your own . These are just suggestions, mind you. Feel free to go rogue!

Serving Suggestions: Get Your Salmon on a Plate!

Okay, so plating is all about making it look good, yeah? Honestly, with this salmon air fryer recipe easy , it's hard to go wrong.

I usually chuck some roasted asparagus next to my air fryer salmon fillet . A squeeze of lemon? Chef's kiss! If you're feeling fancy, a bit of quinoa works well too.

Adds a bit of posh, you know?

Thinking about drinks? A crisp white wine is a classic. If you're off the booze, elderflower presse is just the ticket!

Storage Tips: Keeping Your Salmon Fresh

Right, so you've cooked up this delightful quick salmon dinner , but you've got leftovers. No worries. Pop that air fryer salmon in an airtight container.

It will happily sit in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing? Honestly, I wouldn't bother. The texture changes a bit. But if you must, make sure it's completely cooled first.

Then wrap it well in cling film before freezing. Reheating: Back in the air fryer at 350° F ( 175° C) for a few minutes, or until heated through.

Be careful not to dry it out!

Variations: Mix It Up!

Fancy a change? I get it. For a paleo or keto take, just ensure your mayo is legit. Avocado oil mayo is your friend here.

Want to make a lemon dill salmon recipe into something spicier? A pinch of chili flakes in the oil rub is amazing .

Got some spare fresh herbs? Ditch the dill and chuck in some parsley. It's all good.

Nutrition Basics: Good for You!

Let's keep it real. This healthy air fryer recipe is packed with omega-3s. Essential fats for your brain and heart, innit? Also, it's a good source of protein.

Plus, fewer calories than if you fried it. Winner winner, salmon recipe air fryer dinner! Just keep an eye on the mayo if you're watching the calories.

Honestly, I think you are ready to tackle this easy salmon recipe . Don't be scared to experiment. Cooking should be fun. Enjoy your amazing 20 minute salmon recipe !

Easy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe Succulent Lemon Dill Dinner

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I cook salmon in the air fryer? I'm terrified of overcooking it!

Generally, for this easy air fryer salmon recipe, you'll want to air fry your salmon for 8-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time depends on the thickness of the fillet. The best way to tell if it's done is to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with an instant-read thermometer, or look for it to flake easily with a fork. Think of it like brewing the perfect cuppa - it takes practice, but you'll get there!

Can I use frozen salmon for this easy air fryer salmon recipe?

Absolutely! You'll need to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. You might need to add a couple of minutes to the cooking time, but use your instincts (and that thermometer!) to ensure it's cooked through. Nobody wants a "fishy" surprise!

Skin on or skin off? Which is best for air fryer salmon?

It's entirely up to your personal preference! Skin-on salmon will get crispy in the air fryer, which some people adore. Skin-off salmon will cook more evenly. If you're going skin-on, score the skin a few times with a sharp knife to prevent it from curling up during cooking. Either way, this easy air fryer salmon recipe works a treat.

What's the best way to store leftover air fryer salmon?

Store any leftover air fryer salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it gently in the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 300°F / 150°C) to prevent it from drying out, or flake it cold into a salad for a healthy lunch. Just like a Sunday roast, it's great the next day, too!

Can I customize the lemon-dill sauce? I'm not a huge fan of dill.

Of course! The lemon-dill sauce is a guideline, not a rule. Feel free to substitute the dill with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even a little tarragon. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a squeeze of orange juice for a sweeter flavour. Get creative – it's your kitchen, after all!

Is air fryer salmon healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?

Absolutely! Salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Air frying is a healthier cooking method than deep-frying as it uses little to no oil, reducing the overall fat content. This easy air fryer salmon recipe offers a nutritious and delicious meal, perfect for a balanced diet - just like a good ol' Full English (but much healthier!).