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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Recipe with Easy Lemon Garlic Glaze

crispy air fryer salmon - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy air fryer salmon with a tangy lemon garlic glaze that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170g) each
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels, especially the skin side, to ensure crispiness.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, honey (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to make the lemon garlic glaze.
  3. Lightly season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Brush or toss with about half of the lemon garlic glaze, coating the skin side well but not drenched.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook for 8-10 minutes, checking at 8 minutes for doneness. The salmon should flake easily and the skin should be golden and crisp.
  6. Remove salmon and brush with the remaining lemon garlic glaze for extra flavor and shine.
  7. Let the salmon rest for 1-2 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or dill. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the salmon dry is crucial for crispy skin. Avoid flipping the salmon in the air fryer to keep the skin intact. Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Check doneness at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking. If air fryer basket sticks, lightly oil or spray before cooking. Leftovers can be reheated gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, lemon garlic glaze, quick salmon recipe, healthy salmon, easy dinner, weeknight meal