Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (plus lemon wedges for serving)
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley , chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes .

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter , minced garlic , lemon juice , and salt and pepper to taste.
2. If using red pepper flakes, stir them into the sauce for a hint of spice.

Step 3: Season and Coat the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Brush or spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. Reserve a little sauce for basting later.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

1. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for proper air circulation. (You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is small.)
2. Cook the salmon at 380°F (190°C) for 8–12 minutes , depending on the thickness of the fillets. Check for doneness at 8 minutes—salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) .

Step 5: Baste and Garnish

1. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the remaining garlic butter sauce over the salmon for extra flavor.
2. Remove the salmon from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.

Tips and Variations

• Skin-On vs. Skinless: If using skin-on salmon, place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer. The skin will peel off easily after cooking if you prefer not to eat it.
• Add Herbs: Stir fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or chives into the garlic butter sauce for added aroma.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for a smoky or spicy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for dietary restrictions.
• Vegetable Combo: Toss broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini with olive oil and garlic, and cook alongside the salmon in the air fryer for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days . Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, salmon is a heart-healthy choice.
• Delicious Flavor: The garlic butter sauce adds richness and depth without overpowering the natural taste of the fish.
• Versatile: Pair it with a variety of sides, from grains to greens, for a balanced meal.
• Crispy Yet Tender: The air fryer creates a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a healthy dinner option, this recipe is sure to impress! 🍋