Description
This Air Fryer Salmon recipe provides a quick, flavorful, and healthy way to prepare salmon fillets with a smoky-sweet dry rub. The method locks in moisture while creating a delicious crust, making it ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillet (preferably thick skin-on fillets)
- 1 tablespoon oil (suitable for high temperature cooking)
Dry Rub
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste, more if using kosher or sea salt)
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking temperature throughout the process.
- Prepare Salmon: Lightly oil the salmon fillets—if they have skin, oil the non-skin side; if skinless, oil all over. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents sticking to the basket.
- Apply Dry Rub: Mix all remaining dry rub ingredients in a bowl. Rub the seasoning mix onto the oiled salmon fillets evenly, covering all exposed surfaces for optimal flavor.
- Cook Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 8 to 12 minutes depending on fillet thickness and desired doneness—USDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Serve: Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on thickness—use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Brown sugar is optional but adds a nice caramelized touch; omit if avoiding sugar.
- Use an oil with a high smoke point such as avocado or canola oil to prevent burning.
- For crispier skin, ensure it is dry before oiling and seasoning.
- Leftover cooked salmon can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
