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Air Fryer Crispy Salmon

This dish features skin-on salmon fillets cooked in the air fryer until the skin is irresistibly crispy and golden, while the flesh remains moist and flaky. The key techniques involve oiling and seasoning the fish, then letting the hot air do the work to achieve a smoky crunch without flipping or fussing. The result is a beautifully textured dish with a vibrant, citrusy finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: fusion
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets preferably skin-on, firm and bright
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing the skin
  • 1 lemon lemon zest and juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • to taste salt and pepper generous seasoning
  • a handful fresh herbs parsley or dill, chopped

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Brush or spray bottle
  • Microplane or Zester
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, then use a microplane to zest the lemon over the fish for a bright aroma.
  2. Juice half of the lemon and set the juice aside; sprinkle salt and pepper generously over the skin and flesh, then rub the minced garlic into the flesh side.
  3. Brush a thin layer of olive oil over the skin of each fillet, ensuring it’s evenly coated to help achieve that crispy texture.
  4. Place the seasoned fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching for even cooking.
  5. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the skin is deeply golden and crispy, and the flesh flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  6. Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs.
  7. Serve immediately, enjoying the crispy skin and tender, flavorful flesh with a side of your choice.