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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Butter

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A quick and easy recipe for perfectly crispy salmon skin cooked in an air fryer, topped with a bright and silky lemon butter sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or a fuss-free special meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz / 170g each)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  3. Lightly brush the skin side of each fillet with olive oil. Place the salmon fillets skin side down in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
  4. Cook for 7-9 minutes depending on thickness (about 8 minutes for 1-inch thick fillets) until the skin is crisp and the flesh is opaque and flaky.
  5. While the salmon cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, then remove from heat.
  7. Transfer the cooked salmon to plates skin side up to keep it crispy. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
  8. Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

Pat salmon dry thoroughly to ensure crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Use a light brush of olive oil on the skin side only. Avoid flipping the salmon during cooking. If skin is not crispy enough, cook an additional 1-2 minutes watching closely to prevent burning. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, lemon butter salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy salmon, easy dinner, seafood

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/crispy-air-fryer-salmon-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-perfect-lemon-butter-fish/