Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon — Get ready to add a splash of flavor to your dinner routine with our newest recipe – Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon.

This dish is a true celebration of taste and health, perfectly combining the zing of fresh lemon, the aroma of garlic, and the rustic touch of herbs. 🍋🌿

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon
Save This Recipe Form

Want to save this recipe?

Enter your email below & I will send it straight to your inbox. Plus you’ll get more great recipes from me on occasion!

Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, this salmon recipe not only promises a deliciously crispy exterior but also ensures the inside remains succulently tender. It’s a gourmet meal made effortlessly, providing a wonderful balance of flavors that will dance on your palate. 🐟✨

Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion, our Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon is a versatile choice for any salmon enthusiast. The magic of air frying means you get to enjoy a dish that’s not only full of flavor but also healthy, using minimal oil. 🍽️

Whether you are a seasoned chef or new to the culinary world, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and incredibly satisfying. So, let’s grab our air fryers and embark on a culinary journey that’s bound to leave everyone asking for seconds! 🎉

air fryer lemon garlic herb salmon

Easy Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe

Discover the simplicity and elegance of our Easy Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe, a dish that combines the rich flavors of the sea with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can transform a piece of salmon into a gourmet experience.

The key lies in the delicate balance of flavors: the sharpness of the garlic and the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice complement the natural richness of the salmon. Each fillet is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, ensuring that every bite is infused with flavor.

Cooking in an air fryer elevates this dish to new heights. It makes the preparation hassle-free and ensures the salmon is perfectly cooked – crispy on the outside while remaining tender and moist on the inside.

This cooking method is not just about ease and speed; it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional frying, requiring less oil without sacrificing taste. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch, this Lemon Garlic Salmon is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both health-conscious individuals and those looking for a delicious, satisfying meal. With its appealing presentation and sumptuous taste, this recipe will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You’re going to love this recipe for Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon for several compelling reasons:

  • Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a vibrant and aromatic flavor profile that perfectly complements the natural richness of the salmon. Each bite offers a burst of fresh, zesty, and savory notes, making it a delight for the taste buds.
  • Health-Conscious Cooking: Cooking salmon in an air fryer is convenient and a healthier option. It uses minimal oil compared to traditional frying methods, retaining the natural omega-3 fatty acids in the salmon while achieving a deliciously crispy exterior.
  • Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. The air fryer does most of the work, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet-quality dish with minimal effort and time.
  • Perfectly Cooked Salmon Every Time: The air fryer’s consistent and even heat distribution ensures that the salmon is cooked perfectly – crispy and tender and juicy on the inside.
  • Versatility: This dish is versatile enough to be served on both casual and fancy occasions. It pairs beautifully with various sides, from simple salads and steamed vegetables to more elaborate dishes, making it suitable for any meal.
  • Customizable: The recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different herbs, adjust the garlic level, or add a hint of spice to make it your own.

Enjoying a delicious, healthy meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, and this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon recipe proves just that. It’s a guaranteed hit for anyone who loves well-prepared salmon’s rich, satisfying flavors.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Embark on a flavorful journey with this Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon, where each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating a dish bursting with freshness and savory notes. These carefully selected components combine harmoniously, offering a perfect blend of zest, aroma, and richness.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Salmon Fillets: The centerpiece of the dish, salmon fillets are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and provide a tender, flaky texture that absorbs the marinade’s flavors beautifully.
  • Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is key to this recipe, adding a bright, citrusy zest that cuts through the richness of the salmon and brings a refreshing tang.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic lends a pungent and earthy flavor, creating a depth of taste that complements the salmon’s natural savoriness.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil serves as the base for the marinade, helping to bind the flavors together while adding a subtle richness and ensuring the salmon doesn’t stick to the air fryer basket.
  • Fresh Herbs (like Dill, Parsley, or Basil): Herbs like dill, parsley, or basil provide a burst of freshness and color, each adding its unique flavor profile – dill offering a slight anise-like quality, parsley a clean, slightly peppery taste, and basil a sweet, aromatic essence.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors of the salmon and other ingredients, making each bite perfectly savory.
  • Lemon Zest (optional): Adding lemon zest can intensify the citrus flavor, giving the dish an extra zing and a more aromatic experience.

These ingredients combine to create a dish that is a feast for the palate and the eyes, making it a perfect choice for a nutritious and delightful meal.

How To Make Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon In Air Fryer

Making Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon in an Air Fryer is simple and flavorful. Follow these steps to create a delicious and healthy meal:

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, and your choice of finely chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or basil. Add salt and pepper to taste. This marinade will infuse the salmon with a vibrant and aromatic flavor.

Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is well-coated. Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. You can marinate it for up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) before cooking. This step ensures that the salmon starts cooking immediately and helps achieve a crispy texture.

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly grease the basket with olive oil or use a non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the salmon from sticking to the basket.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Cook the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket to allow for even cooking. Cook the salmon for about 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. There’s no need to turn the salmon over during cooking.

Check for Doneness: Salmon is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at its thickest part. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Serving: Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon for an extra flavor.

This Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon is easy to prepare and a delightfully healthy option, perfect for a quick dinner or a nutritious lunch. The air fryer method ensures a meal that’s low in oil yet full of taste, with the salmon’s natural flavors beautifully enhanced by the lemon, garlic, and herbs.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Pro Tips


Here are some pro tips to elevate your Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon to perfection:

  • Choose Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon. Look for fillets that are bright in color, firm to the touch, and have a fresh, ocean-like smell. Wild-caught salmon often offers a superior flavor and texture compared to farm-raised.
  • Even Thickness: Try to select salmon fillets that are uniform in thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly in the air fryer. If your fillets have thinner parts, you can tuck them under for even cooking.
  • Marinating Time: While a 30-minute marinade imparts good flavor, allowing the salmon to marinate for longer (up to 2 hours) will intensify the taste. Just be careful not to marinate the fish too long, as the acid in the lemon juice can start to ‘cook’ it.
  • Room Temperature: Before cooking, let the marinated salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly in the air fryer.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s some space around each one. This allows the hot air to circulate freely, leading to even cooking and a crispy finish.
  • Checking Doneness: Salmon is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for an opaque color and flaky texture.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful fillet.
  • Garnish for Freshness: A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can add a refreshing flavor.
  • Cleaning the Air Fryer: Clean the air fryer basket immediately after cooking to prevent sticking in future uses. Salmon skin can stick to the basket if left to cool down and harden.
  • Experiment with Flavors: For a spicy kick, don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and seasonings like rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Following these tips will help ensure your Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon is not just delicious but also cooked to perfection, making it a dish that’s sure to impress!

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Faq’s

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? You can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking. Thawed salmon cooks more evenly and absorbs marinade better.

How long should I cook the salmon in the air fryer? The cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets, but it typically takes about 7-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; salmon is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? Yes, you can bake the salmon in a conventional oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked.

What herbs work best in this recipe? Dill, parsley, and basil are great options. You can also try thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Is it necessary to flip the salmon during cooking? In most air fryers, it’s not necessary to flip the salmon. The air circulation cooks the salmon evenly. However, flipping might be helpful if your air fryer has hot spots.

How can I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket? Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil to prevent sticking. Parchment paper liners made for air fryers are also a great option.

What side dishes go well with this salmon? Light salads, steamed or roasted vegetables, quinoa, or rice pair well with this dish. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a green salad.

Can I store and reheat leftovers? Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave, but reheating can dry out the salmon.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked? The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque. As mentioned, an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates it’s done.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh? Fresh lemon juice is preferred for its flavor, but you can use bottled in a pinch. Keep in mind that the taste may be slightly different.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

What to Serve with This Salmon Dish?

I usually serve a salad or a rice bowl with my salmon dishes. But this dish will go with almost everything. Here are some of my favorite side dishes:

Equipment Used:

Philips Kitchen Appliances Digital Twin TurboStar Airfryer XXL, with Fat Removal Technology, 3 Lbs, Black, HD9650/96

Don’t Forget To Pin!

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Herb Salmon

4.67 from 18 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

This salmon recipe is covered with a delicious lemon, garlic, and herb crust, which keeps the salmon nice and juicy.

Ingredients 

  • 4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs, dill, parsley, or basil, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Salt, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, teaspoon
  • Lemon zest, optional, for extra flavor
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  • Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Place salmon in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all sides are coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Prepare the Basket: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil or non-stick spray.
  • Cook the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
  • Rest and Serve: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Notes

Chef’s Tips:
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillets.
  • For an extra zesty flavor, add some lemon zest to the marinade.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 309kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 34gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 94mgSodium: 658mgPotassium: 865mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.3gVitamin A: 239IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 28mgIron: 2mg

Share this recipe

We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Mention @forktospoon or tag #forktospoon!