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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Butter: Easy 15-Minute Recipe

crispy air fryer salmon with lemon butter - featured image

This crispy air fryer salmon with lemon butter is the result of a happy accident. The fish comes out flaky on the inside, with a crust that shatters when you bite into it, all while being bathed in the simplest, most perfect lemon butter sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried dill, smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Brush this mixture all over the salmon fillets, including the skin side. Let sit for a minute.
  3. Place the salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching.
  4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium or 130°F for well-done.
  5. Remove salmon from air fryer using tongs. Let rest for 2 minutes. Drizzle any remaining lemon butter sauce from the basket over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Pat the salmon bone-dry for crispy skin. Don’t overcrowd the basket. Use a thermometer for precision. Let salmon come to room temperature before cooking. Brush the basket with a little oil to prevent sticking. For dairy-free, substitute butter with avocado oil or ghee.

Nutrition

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