These easy air fryer salmon fillets are tender, flaky and full of flavour, with lightly crisp edges and a delicious garlic and lemon seasoning. They’re perfect for a quick midweek dinner when you want something satisfying without spending ages in the kitchen.
With just a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal washing-up, this simple salmon recipe is a brilliant choice for busy UK families.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Recipe
- Quick and convenient: Most fillets cook in around 10–12 minutes.
- Simple ingredients: Everything is easy to find in UK supermarkets.
- Minimal oil: You only need a little olive oil.
- Family-friendly: Serve with potatoes, rice or vegetables.
- Easy to customise: Change the seasoning to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 4 skin-on salmon fillets (approximately 125–150g each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic granules
- ½ tsp dried mixed herbs
- ½ tsp fine salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Fresh parsley, optional
How to Cook Salmon Fillets in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with kitchen paper. This helps the seasoning stick and encourages lightly crisp edges.
Step 2: Add the Seasoning
Mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic granules, dried herbs, salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes if your model recommends preheating.
Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon
Arrange the fillets skin-side down in a single layer, leaving space for air to circulate.
Cook at 180°C for approximately 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness. Start checking earlier for thin fillets.
Step 5: Check and Serve
Check the thickest part with a food thermometer. For a straightforward fully cooked result, aim for 63°C in the centre.
Serve immediately with fresh lemon juice and parsley.
How Long to Cook Salmon in an Air Fryer
Cooking time depends on the thickness of the fillets and the air fryer model.
| Fillet thickness | Approximate time at 180°C |
|---|---|
| Thin, around 2cm | 7–9 minutes |
| Medium, around 2.5cm | 9–12 minutes |
| Thick, around 3cm | 12–15 minutes |
These times are estimates. Always check doneness rather than relying on the timer alone.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Salmon
Avoid overcrowding. Leave space between the fillets so hot air can circulate.
Pat the fish dry. Excess moisture can prevent the surface from browning.
Keep the skin on. It helps protect the flesh during cooking and is easy to remove afterwards.
Use a thermometer. Salmon can overcook quickly, particularly in powerful air fryers.
Add lemon after cooking. Fresh lemon juice gives the finished fish a brighter flavour.
Easy Flavour Variations
Honey Mustard Salmon
Mix 1 tbsp honey with 1 tbsp Dijon mustard and brush over the salmon before cooking. Watch carefully because the honey can brown quickly.
Lemon and Herb Salmon
Replace the paprika with extra dried herbs and a little finely grated lemon zest.
Spicy Salmon
Add ¼ tsp chilli flakes to the seasoning mixture for gentle heat.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon
For a balanced family dinner, try serving these salmon fillets with:
- Boiled baby potatoes and steamed broccoli
- Fluffy rice and green beans
- Mashed potatoes and peas
- Couscous with cucumber and tomatoes
- Roasted vegetables and a yoghurt dressing
Storage and Reheating
Allow leftover salmon to cool promptly and refrigerate in a covered container within two hours. Eat within 48 hours.
Reheat thoroughly until piping hot throughout, and only reheat once. A lower air fryer setting of around 160°C can help reduce drying; check frequently.
For best texture, freshly cooked salmon is preferable.
Air Fryer Salmon Fillets
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Food Thermometer
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets (125–150g each)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic granules
½ tsp dried mixed herbs
½ tsp fine salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with kitchen paper.
2. Mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic granules, herbs, salt and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Brush the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes, if required by your model.
5. Place the salmon skin-side down in the basket, leaving space between the fillets.
6. Air fry at 180°C for approximately 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness.
7. Check the thickest part reaches 63°C with a food thermometer.
8. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and parsley.
Notes
- Pat the salmon dry: Use kitchen paper to remove excess moisture before adding the seasoning. This helps the salmon develop lightly crisp edges.
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Arrange the fillets in a single layer, leaving enough space for hot air to circulate. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the cooking time: Thin fillets may cook in 7–9 minutes, while thicker fillets can take 12–15 minutes at 180°C.
- Check for doneness: Use a food thermometer to check that the thickest part reaches 63°C.
- Add lemon after cooking: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brings out the flavour.
- Try different seasonings: Lemon zest, dried dill, Cajun seasoning or a little honey mustard make delicious variations.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers promptly in an airtight container and eat within 48 hours.
- Reheating: Reheat at around 160°C, checking frequently until piping hot throughout. Reheat only once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you cook frozen salmon in an air fryer?
Yes, provided the fillets are separated and cooked all the way through. Frozen salmon takes longer than fresh salmon. Check the manufacturer’s instructions and use a food thermometer.
Do you need to flip salmon in the air fryer?
Usually not. Cooking skin-side down allows the hot air to circulate around the top of the fillet.
What temperature is best for air fryer salmon?
180°C is a useful starting point for tender salmon with lightly browned edges.
How do you stop salmon drying out?
Choose fillets of similar thickness, avoid cooking them for longer than necessary and check their internal temperature.
Can you use salmon without skin?
Absolutely. Skinless salmon works well, although you should handle it carefully because it can be more delicate.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer salmon fillets are an easy way to put a flavourful dinner on the table with very little effort. With simple seasoning, a short cooking time and plenty of serving options, this recipe is a practical addition to your weekly meal plan.
Whether you serve it with rice, potatoes or vegetables, it’s a versatile meal that can be adapted to suit the whole family.