Go Back

Crispy Air Fryer Lemon-Orange Salmon

This dish features salmon fillets cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crispy, golden skin while keeping the flesh tender and moist. Bright citrus juices and a light seasoning enhance the natural richness of the fish, resulting in a flavorful, visually appealing final presentation with crackling skin and flaky interior.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces salmon fillets, skin-on thawed and patted dry
  • 1 lemon lemon freshly squeezed juice and zest
  • 1 orange orange freshly squeezed juice and zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1 light spray olive oil or cooking spray optional, for crisping
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley chopped, optional garnish

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Paper towels
  • Juicer or citrus squeezer
  • Small bowl
  • Cooking spray or oil

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the citrus juices and zest from the lemon and orange for a bright, tangy marinade.
  3. Squeeze the lemon and orange over the salmon fillets, then evenly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Gently press the seasonings into the flesh.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly brush with oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow hot air circulation.
  6. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs if desired.
  8. Squeeze a little extra citrus juice over the top for added brightness and serve immediately for the crispiest skin and juiciest flesh.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder before cooking. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to regain crispness.