1. Is it okay to use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can! But you’ll need to thaw it first. Run it under cool water or let it sit in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, make sure to pat it dry before seasoning. This step helps the spices stick better and keeps the salmon from steaming instead of crisping. Even when using frozen fish, this recipe still turns out delicious.

2. What kind of salmon works best in the air fryer?

Both wild-caught and farm-raised work, but wild-caught is often preferred. That’s because it usually has a richer flavor and firmer texture. However, farm-raised salmon can still be tasty and affordable. No matter which type you use, make sure it’s fresh and not too thin, so it doesn’t dry out.

3. How do I keep the salmon from drying out?

To avoid dryness, don’t overcook it. Set your air fryer to the right temperature and check the salmon after 8 minutes. Additionally, using a food thermometer helps. Aim for 125–130°F inside. Plus, letting the salmon rest for a minute or two after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender.

4. What are some quick sides to pair with this salmon?

Great question! This dish goes well with many simple sides. For example, try roasted veggies, a cucumber salad, or even mashed sweet potatoes. These sides are not only quick to make but also balance out the bold flavors of the garlic and spices. If you’re in a rush, even a slice of garlic bread works great!

5. Can I make this salmon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep it ahead! Simply season the salmon and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. That way, when it’s time to cook, all you have to do is pop it in the air fryer. Prepping early also lets the spices soak into the fish, giving it even more flavor.

6. How do I reheat leftover salmon without losing texture?

The air fryer is perfect for reheating! Set it to 350°F and heat the salmon for about 4–5 minutes. Cover it loosely with foil to avoid drying it out. You can also reheat it in a pan with a splash of lemon juice or water. While the microwave is quicker, it can make the fish rubbery—so it’s best used only when needed.

Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic and Spices

Description

This Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic and Spices is the perfect go-to dinner recipe—quick, flavorful, and healthy. It features a crispy crust, juicy center, and is loaded with smoky garlic goodness. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Ingredients

Scale

2 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each), skin on or off
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Dry the Salmon
Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and crisp the surface.
Make the Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Season the Salmon
Rub the spice mixture all over the salmon fillets, coating both sides evenly.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat it for 2–3 minutes.
Cook the Salmon
Place fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C).
Rest and Serve
Let the salmon rest for 1–2 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra crispiness, brush a bit more olive oil on the salmon halfway through cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
Frozen salmon works too—just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry.
Great side pairings include roasted vegetables, quinoa, or frozen garlic bread in the air fryer.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 170g
Calories: 315 kcal
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 125 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 3.8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 1.5 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 34 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

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