Air Fried Salmon

Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-12 minutes
• Total Time: 18-22 minutes

Cooking Temperature

• Air Fryer Temperature: 400°F (200°C)

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Ingredients

• Salmon:
  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• Seasoning:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Serving:
• Lemon wedges
• ¹Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy exterior when air-frying. Place the fillets on a clean plate or cutting board, skin side down.
2. Season the Salmon:
   • Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the fillets. This not only adds flavor but also helps the seasonings adhere better.
   • In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
   • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the salmon fillets, rubbing it gently into the flesh to ensure even coverage.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that perfect sear on the salmon.
4. Air Fry the Salmon:
   • Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are skin side down and not overcrowded. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them one at a time.
   • Cook the salmon for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your desired level of doneness. A general guideline is about 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
5. Check for Doneness:
   • Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you prefer it a bit more well-done, you can leave it in for an extra minute or two, but be careful not to overcook it as it can become dry.
6. Rest and Serve:
   • Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer using a spatula. Let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful salmon.
   • Serve the salmon hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and alongside lemon wedges. The acidity from the lemon enhances the flavor of the fish beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Salmon

• Marination: For added flavor, consider marinating the salmon in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for about 30 minutes before seasoning and cooking.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce and ginger, or Mediterranean combinations with oregano and lemon, can create delicious variations.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair your salmon with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a balanced meal.

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