If you’ve been searching for a quick, nutritious dinner option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, air fryer salmon deserves your attention.
You’ll appreciate how this cooking method delivers consistently crispy exteriors while keeping the fish perfectly tender inside.
These nine recipes transform simple salmon fillets into restaurant-worthy meals with minimal effort and cleanup.
From sweet honey garlic to spicy harissa variations, each option offers unique flavor profiles while providing essential omega-3 fatty acids.
The best part? Your impressive dinner will be ready in less than 20 minutes.
Honey Garlic Glazed Air Fryer Salmon
This sweet and savory honey garlic glazed salmon cooks to perfection in the air fryer, creating a caramelized exterior while keeping the fish tender and moist inside. Ready in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, lemon juice, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to make the glaze.
Step 2: Brush the salmon fillets with half of the glaze mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated on all sides.
Step 3: Preheat air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
Step 4: Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
Step 5: Cook for 7-9 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon is flaky and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Step 6: Brush the cooked salmon with remaining glaze and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 11g
Lemon Herb Crusted Salmon With Crispy Skin
This air fryer salmon features a crispy herb crust with perfectly cooked skin. The bright lemon flavor combined with fresh herbs creates a restaurant-quality dish in just minutes.
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Score the skin side lightly with a sharp knife to help it crisp up.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper to create the herb crust mixture.
Step 3: Brush the herb mixture over the flesh side of the salmon fillets, pressing gently to adhere the herbs.
Step 4: Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
Step 6: Cook for 7-9 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fiber: 1g
Spicy Cajun Air Fryer Salmon Fillets
Perfectly spiced salmon fillets air fried to flaky perfection in just minutes. The crispy exterior seals in moisture while the Cajun seasoning adds a kick of heat to this healthy main dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 2: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil on all sides.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
Step 4: Rub the spice mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, coating all sides.
Step 5: Place salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Step 6: Air fry for 7-9 minutes until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 1.2mg
Maple Dijon Salmon Bites
These bite-sized salmon pieces are coated with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon glaze then air fried to perfection. Quick, easy, and perfect for dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.
Step 2: Add the salmon cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat. Allow to marinate for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 4: Place salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces. Work in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Cook for 5-7 minutes until salmon is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. No need to flip.
Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 240 per serving
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Serving size: ¼ pound (about 6-8 bites)
Coconut-Crusted Salmon With Mango Salsa
This tropical-inspired air fryer salmon features a crispy coconut crust paired with vibrant mango salsa. The combination creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
For the mango salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes. In a shallow bowl, combine coconut, panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 3: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place salmon fillets in the basket, leaving space between each piece. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
Step 4: Cook for 10-12 minutes until salmon is cooked through and coating is golden brown.
Step 5: While salmon cooks, combine all salsa ingredients in a bowl, mixing gently. Let sit for flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve salmon fillets topped with a generous spoonful of mango salsa.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
Mediterranean Air Fryer Salmon With Olive Tapenade
This zesty Mediterranean salmon dish combines fresh herbs, lemon, and a tangy olive tapenade for a protein-rich meal that cooks perfectly in the air fryer in just minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ¼ cup green olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over salmon fillets.
Step 3: Place salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 7-9 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: While salmon cooks, prepare tapenade by combining kalamata olives, green olives, capers, and parsley in a small bowl.
Step 5: Transfer cooked salmon to serving plates, top each fillet with a spoonful of olive tapenade, and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
Crispy Teriyaki Salmon Bowls
These crispy teriyaki salmon bowls combine tender air-fried salmon with a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce.
Served over fluffy rice with fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Pat salmon dry with paper towels and brush with olive oil.
Step 2: Place salmon in air fryer basket skin-side down and cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy outside and flaky inside.
Step 3: Meanwhile, prepare teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a small saucepan.
Bring to simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Add cornstarch mixture to sauce and stir until thickened, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble bowls with rice, vegetables, and salmon. Drizzle with teriyaki sauce and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
Harissa-Spiced Salmon With Cucumber Yogurt Sauce
This spicy, flavorful salmon pairs perfectly with a cooling cucumber yogurt sauce. The air fryer creates a deliciously crisp exterior while keeping the fish tender and moist inside.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and coat them evenly with the harissa mixture.
Step 2: Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes. Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
Step 3: Cook for 7-9 minutes until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: While salmon cooks, prepare the sauce. Squeeze excess moisture from the grated cucumber using a clean kitchen towel.
Mix cucumber with yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Serve the salmon immediately with a generous dollop of cucumber yogurt sauce on top or on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fiber: 1g
Sweet Chili Lime Air Fryer Salmon
This sweet and tangy salmon cooks to perfect flaky tenderness in just minutes. The vibrant lime and sweet chili glaze caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer for restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lime, sliced for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to create the glaze.
Step 3: Brush salmon fillets with olive oil, then brush about half of the glaze mixture over the fillets.
Step 4: Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes. Place salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down.
Step 5: Cook for 7-9 minutes until salmon is flaky and reaches 145°F internally.
Step 6: Brush remaining glaze over cooked salmon, garnish with lime slices and cilantro, and serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 280mg
Final Thoughts
These nine air fryer salmon recipes transform your weeknight meals from ordinary to extraordinary.
You’ll savor complex flavors, appreciate perfect textures, and enjoy ideal omega-3 fatty acids with each bite.
You’re just minutes away from protein-rich, nutrient-dense dinners that satisfy both culinary cravings and nutritional needs.
Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or savory profiles, these dishes deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum health benefits.
