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Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Salmon

This dish features tender salmon fillets cooked in an air fryer until the skin is irresistibly crispy, with a bright lemon flavor shining through. The process involves simple seasoning, quick prep, and careful cooking to achieve a golden, flaky interior with a satisfying crunch on the outside. Perfect for a fast, flavorful main course that looks as good as it tastes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets salmon fillets skin-on preferred for crispiness
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice and slices
  • 1 tbsp olive oil optional, helps skin crisp
  • to taste salt preferably kosher salt
  • to taste pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Foil-lined tray
  • Lemon squeezer
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the skin gets crispy during cooking.
  2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Let the seasoned fish sit for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and line the basket with foil for easy cleanup.
  4. Lightly brush or spray the salmon skin with olive oil to encourage crisping and prevent sticking.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the foil-lined basket, making sure they aren’t touching to allow even airflow.
  6. Cook the salmon at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy, and the flesh flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  7. Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer using tongs, watching for the crackle of crispy skin and fragrant citrus aroma.
  8. Serve immediately with lemon slices on top for a fresh burst of citrus; garnish with chopped herbs if desired.