If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner, this Salmon Air Fryer recipe is the perfect choice. Salmon cooks beautifully in the air fryer, creating a flaky, juicy center with a lightly crisp exterior. Paired with fresh asparagus, it’s an easy meal that’s ready in about 20 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
Table of Contents
Prep Time
10 minutes
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
20 minutes
Servings
4
4
Difficulty
Easy
Easy
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced for serving
How to Make Easy Salmon Air Fryer Recipe for a Healthy Dinner
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Trim the asparagus and place it in a bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the remaining olive oil with garlic powder, paprika, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Arrange the asparagus in the air fryer basket, leaving room for the salmon.
- Place the salmon skin-side down beside the asparagus.
- Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon, until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully remove the salmon and asparagus from the air fryer.
- Serve immediately with fresh lemon slices.
Tips
- Choose salmon fillets of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Use a meat thermometer and cook until the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Fresh lemon juice adds extra brightness just before serving.
- Pair with rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Storage Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Do not freeze cooked asparagus for best texture, but cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes. Thaw completely for the best texture, or cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Do I need to flip the salmon?
No. Air frying cooks the salmon evenly without flipping.
What vegetables work well besides asparagus?
Broccoli, green beans, zucchini, and Brussels sprouts all cook well alongside salmon.
