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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Garlic Herb Butter

crispy air fryer salmon - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy skin salmon cooked in an air fryer, topped with a rich garlic herb butter that melts perfectly over the flaky fish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 skin-on salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each)
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Garlic Herb Butter:
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons (56 g) of softened unsalted butter, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon each of finely chopped fresh parsley and dill, and the zest of one lemon. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Mix until well incorporated and set aside.
  2. Season the Salmon: Pat dry two 6-ounce (170 g) skin-on salmon fillets with paper towels. Rub about 1 teaspoon of olive oil per fillet over the skin and flesh sides. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes.
  4. Cook the Salmon: Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes depending on thickness until the skin is golden and crispy and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Apply Garlic Herb Butter: Transfer the salmon to a plate and spread a generous dollop of the garlic herb butter on top while the fish is hot, allowing it to melt.
  6. Serve Immediately: Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and extra herbs if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Pat the salmon skin dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Add garlic herb butter only after cooking to prevent burning. For uneven fillets, fold thinner ends under for even cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a skillet or air fryer.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer salmon, crispy salmon, garlic herb butter, healthy salmon recipe, quick salmon dinner, easy salmon recipe